Shopaholics will be in heaven in Chengdu. As the most important city for commerce and trade
in this part of China, Chengdu is home to some large shopping malls and street markets selling
both domestic and international brands.
Lotus Pond Market 荷花池市场
Lotus Pond Market is the largest wholesale market in south-west China. You'll be greeted by high
decimal levels of chatter and noise once you enter its doors, as customers and sellers' voices boom
incessantly throughout thebuilding. The market sells a wide selection of products, including clothing,
textiles, shoes, accessories, sports goods, arts, crafts and toys. In fact, you'll find over 20,000 different
types of products on sale here for a comprehensive, all-round shopping experience. Lotus Pond Market
employs 10,000 people and sees an average of 30,000 visitorswalk through its doors on a daily basis.
With over 15,000 stalls, this market is the main provider of stock for Chengdu's smaller shops, a status
that is upheld due to its reputation of being cheap. Though cheap is often negated with bad quality, this
market does sell some brand names however, such as Playboy, Montagut and Goldlion, all available at
significantly cheaper prices than at any other department store far and wide. If you do want to pick up a
bargain though, you'll have to be prepared to work for it. If the products are not clearly priced then it is
safe to presume that bargaining is both expected and required. For tips on bargaining in China check
out these useful articles here and here.
Address:Beizhan Dong Yijie, Jinniu District, Chengdu 成都市金牛区北站东一街
Hours: 9:00-17:00
Getting there: Take bus no.99, 57 or 73 to Lotus Pond Market stop (荷花池站).
