Are you trying to figure out what a good gift or souvenir from Shanghai would be? Don’t tread uncharted waters. The following list gives you some wonderful ideas about what to bring her.
Embroidered Silk Slippers
Girls love to slip their feet into something pretty, so trade in her raggedy old faux-shearling bedroom slippers for something gorgeous and silk. Suzhou Cobblers’ slippers and shoes are sure to drive your girl wild with abandon over her new hand-embroidered treasures – no foot-binding required.
Where to buy it?
Gorgeous Ceramics
Jingdezhen is historically the capital of Chinese porcelain. Porcelain has been made there for hundreds of years, and nothing says “China” like, well, china. While fragile, you can easily transport small items such as jewelry boxes, vases, or teacups. Most are sold in very sturdy boxes. You can find everything from the super-traditional blue and white patterns with swirling dragons and phoenixes to ultra-modern designs in stark white. She’ll love the beauty and craftsmanship of these items.
Where to buy it?
- Traditional: Shanghai Museum Store, 201 Renmin Da Dao, by Yan’an Road (inside the People’s Park). Open daily from 9am-5pm.
- Modern: Spin, 360 Kangding Road near Shanxi Bei Road (康定路360号近陕西北路). Open daily from 11am-8pm.
Pearls and Jewelry
Who doesn’t love a real bargain? South Sea Pearls, those big luscious beauties that grace the necks of celebrities, can be quite pricey—often exceeding 10,000 USD for low-quality ones. However, while these gems are cultivated in warm southern Pacific seas, they are traded in China, allowing for great deals. With strong bargaining skills, you can snag a strand for as low as USD 1,000, but be prepared to negotiate.
Additionally, other genuine pearls are available at markets for very attractive prices. Yet, it is wise to never accept the first price offered—always haggle to ensure you get the best deal.
Where to buy it?
- Pearl’s Circles, First Asia Jewelry Plaza, 3rd floor, 288 Fuyou Road, Shanghai. Open daily 10am-6pm.
- Hong Qiao New World Pearl Market, Hong Mei Road on the corner of Hong Qiao Road. Open daily 10am-10pm.
Silk Pajamas
An exquisite gift for her that she surely wouldn’t buy herself is a set of luxurious silk pajamas from Shanghai Tang. She will adore her new jammies, and you will be appreciated for your thoughtful gift.
Where to buy it?
- Shanghai Tang, Xintiandi Plaza, 15 Xintiandi North Block, Lane 181 Tai Cang Road or at the corner of Maoming Road and Huaihai Road.
