Summary
Shopping
If you’re a shopper or are looking for something special to bring back home, then pearl shopping should be on your itinerary while in Shanghai. Pearls present a great opportunity to snag a bargain in China due to the thriving cultured pearl industry in the region, particularly around Shanghai and Suzhou. Consequently, you may find favorable prices if you’re prepared to negotiate.
The Hongqiao New World Pearl Market is located a bit off the beaten tourist path in Shanghai, specifically in the western district away from the main downtown area. If you make the journey, you’ll discover not only a wide selection of pearls but also various other souvenirs.
Pearl and jewelry retailers fill the second and third floors, whereas the first floor is teeming with small vendors hawking Chinese silk, scarves, curios, handbags, and t-shirts.
Market Description
This expansive three-floor market resembles a shopping mall and is abundant with goods and pearls. On the first floor, you can find imitation bags, silk scarves, and assorted trinkets. The second and third floors are dedicated to pearl and jewelry vendors who display their collections on tables for your review.
Higher-end shops are positioned along the perimeter of the market while lower-end vendors occupy open stalls and tables throughout the middle area. Therefore, there is a diverse selection available to cater to different budgets.
Vendors are eager to sell pearls and gemstones, and many can craft custom pieces within minutes. Remember to bargain hard and feel empowered to walk away if a deal isn’t satisfactory, as virtually every shop offers similar items. To avoid purchasing counterfeit products, ensure you understand how to buy pearls before your visit.
Market Address, Hours, and Transportation
The market’s address is 3721 Hongmei Road (虹梅路3721), conveniently situated just off Yan’an Road. It operates daily from 10 am to 9 pm. Although these are the official hours, it is advisable to visit before 6 pm to find most vendors still operating, as many may close earlier than the posted time.
Since there isn’t a nearby metro station, taking a taxi is your best option. The Hong Mei Road area is known for its expatriate community, making it easy to find a taxi to take you back downtown or to your next destination. Be sure to have the address of your intended location written down for the driver.
A Note About the Neighborhood
Hong Mei Road, where the market is located, is noted for being an expat-friendly area. If time allows, consider walking the length of the road to discover a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants that cater to the expatriate population. Moreover, the alley known as “laowai street” or “foreigner street,” which is directly across from the pearl market, boasts several popular restaurants and bars. This could be an ideal spot to send a companion while you indulge in pearl shopping.
