What to buy in Hangzhou

Introduction
Hangzhou is not only famous for the stunning beauty of West Lake but also stands out as a city rich in shopping and cultural experiences. Whether you are interested in traditional handicrafts, local specialties, or modern trendy products, Hangzhou offers something for every traveler. With our exclusive Hangzhou shopping and culture itinerary, you can immerse yourself in the highlights of shopping, culture, and local cuisine all in a single day.

If you are curious about shopping in Hangzhou, wondering what to buy in Hangzhou, or simply want to explore the best of Hangzhou shopping, this guide will lead you through a carefully curated route that combines authentic experiences with must-visit stores, markets, and cultural landmarks. You will not only find unique souvenirs and gifts but also gain insight into the city’s rich artistic and commercial traditions.

What to Buy in Hangzhou (Must-Buy Items & Local Specialties)
1. Longjing Tea 
Longjing tea is one of Hangzhou’s most famous local specialties, celebrated not only for its rich history and unique aroma but also for its deep cultural significance. Known as West Lake Dragon Well tea, it has been cultivated in the scenic tea plantations around West Lake for centuries, and was even favored by emperors during the Qing Dynasty. The tea is prized for its delicate, slightly sweet flavor, tender green leaves, and smooth, refreshing finish. Beyond its taste, Longjing tea embodies the artistry and heritage of Hangzhou’s tea culture, with traditional hand-picking and pan-frying techniques passed down through generations. Visiting the tea villages, such as Meijiawu and Longjing Village, allows you to experience this rich heritage firsthand, from tea picking and processing to ceremonial tasting, offering a true immersion into the history and cultural stories behind every cup.

Buying Guide: For an authentic experience and the best quality tea, it is highly recommended to visit tea villages such as Meijiawu Village or Longjing Village. Here, you can purchase directly from local tea growers, ensuring genuine products at reasonable prices. Look for official packaging or certification when buying, and be aware of the price range—premium Longjing tea typically costs more but guarantees authentic quality.

Experience Highlights: With our curated itinerary, you can participate in hands-on tea picking, observe traditional tea processing techniques, and enjoy fresh tea tastings at the village. This immersive experience allows you to appreciate the craft and culture behind every cup.

Seasonal Tip: The best time to harvest Longjing tea is during spring, typically from late March to early May, when the leaves are tenderest and the flavor is at its peak.

2. Silk Products 
Silk has a long-standing history in Hangzhou and is an important part of the city’s cultural heritage, dating back over a thousand years to the Tang and Song dynasties when Hangzhou became a key hub on the Silk Road. Hangzhou silk is renowned for its smooth texture, vibrant colors, and exquisite craftsmanship, making it a must-buy for visitors interested in both fashion and traditional artistry. Beyond its beauty, silk in Hangzhou represents centuries of artisanal expertise, with techniques such as hand-loom weaving, natural dyeing, and intricate embroidery carefully preserved and passed down through generations. Visiting silk markets or specialty boutiques in the city not only allows you to purchase high-quality scarves, garments, or home textiles, but also gives you a glimpse into the cultural stories and historical significance behind each piece, offering an authentic experience of Hangzhou’s rich silk heritage.

Recommended Items: Popular silk products include scarves, silk quilts, and clothing such as blouses or robes. These items make elegant souvenirs or gifts and showcase the refined beauty of Hangzhou’s silk industry.

Authenticity Tips: To ensure you are buying genuine silk, look for products with a natural sheen, smooth hand feel, and carefully finished edges. Reputable shops and certified silk stores, especially in the Silk Market near Wulin Square or along Hefang Street, are recommended.

Experience Highlights: Visiting a silk market allows you to engage directly with the craft. You can try hands-on activities such as silk dyeing or simple handcrafting workshops, giving you a deeper appreciation for the artistry and effort behind each piece.

3. Traditional Handicrafts & Signature Items
Hangzhou is home to a variety of traditional handicrafts and heritage brands that combine artistry, history, and practical use. These signature items not only make perfect souvenirs but also allow you to connect with the cultural legacy of the city.

Wang Xing Ji Fans: Wang Xing Ji is a centuries-old fan brand deeply rooted in Hangzhou’s rich cultural and artistic heritage, celebrated for its exquisite craftsmanship and hand-painted designs. Established during the Qing Dynasty, the brand has become synonymous with traditional Chinese fans, which were historically more than just tools for cooling—they symbolized status, artistry, and refinement. These fans are highly valued not only for their practical use but also for their cultural and collectible significance, often featuring traditional motifs such as landscapes, flowers, birds, or elegant calligraphy. Visiting a fan workshop near the city center allows you to watch skilled artisans meticulously painting and assembling each fan by hand, preserving techniques that have been passed down through generations. 

Zhang Xiaoquan Scissors: Founded over a hundred years ago, Zhang Xiaoquan is a heritage brand that has become synonymous with exceptional craftsmanship and precision metalwork in Hangzhou. Renowned for its high-quality scissors, the brand embodies a centuries-old tradition of Chinese metallurgy, blending functionality with artistry. These scissors are highly practical for everyday use, yet they also hold collectible value, reflecting Hangzhou’s rich history of skilled artisans and attention to detail. Historically, Zhang Xiaoquan scissors were prized by scholars, tailors, and households across China for their durability and precision, making them both a tool and a symbol of cultural refinement. Visiting a Zhang Xiaoquan store or workshop along the Grand Canal area allows you to observe artisans meticulously sharpening, polishing, and finishing each pair by hand, preserving techniques passed down through generations. 

Tiantang Umbrellas: Tiantang umbrellas are handmade using traditional techniques that reflect Hangzhou’s long-standing cultural heritage, blending artistic design with practical functionality. These umbrellas are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, from selecting high-quality materials to hand-painting intricate patterns that often feature traditional Chinese motifs such as flowers, landscapes, or auspicious symbols. Beyond their beauty, umbrellas in Chinese culture historically served not only as protection from the elements but also as symbols of status, elegance, and artistic taste, particularly among scholars and officials. Tiantang umbrellas are prized for their elegant designs and durable craftsmanship, making them both functional tools and collectible cultural artifacts. Some workshops along the Jing-Hang Grand Canal offer immersive hands-on umbrella-making experiences, allowing visitors to try assembling or decorating umbrellas under the guidance of skilled local artisans. 

Experience Highlights: Including visits to workshops or booking curated itineraries allows you to not only shop but also engage with the culture behind each product. As you explore these items, you will learn the stories and historical significance of each craft, enriching your shopping experience with cultural depth. The combination of hands-on experience, storytelling, and heritage appreciation makes shopping in Hangzhou truly unique.

4. Local Snacks & Specialty Foods
Hangzhou offers a rich selection of local snacks and specialty foods that reflect its culinary heritage and cultural history. These edible souvenirs allow you to take a taste of the city home while learning about its traditions.

Osmanthus Tea: Osmanthus tea is a fragrant local beverage known for its sweet, floral aroma and soothing taste. It is often enjoyed during special occasions or as a daily refreshment. You can purchase packaged osmanthus tea in tea shops or markets across Hangzhou, making it an ideal gift for tea lovers.

Dongpo Pork: Dongpo Pork is a classic dish of Hangzhou cuisine named after the famous Song Dynasty poet and statesman Su Dongpo. The pork is braised slowly to achieve a tender, flavorful texture, often with a subtle sweetness. Many specialty stores offer vacuum-packed versions, allowing you to bring this iconic taste home. The dish is not only delicious but also a window into Hangzhou’s historical and literary culture.

West Lake Lotus Root Starch: West Lake Lotus Root Starch is a nutritious and healthy product made from locally grown lotus roots. It is often used to make sweet or savory desserts and can be purchased in packaged form as a thoughtful and practical souvenir.

Cultural Stories: Sampling these foods gives you more than just flavors. Dongpo Pork, for example, tells the story of Su Dongpo, his love for Hangzhou, and how his culinary legacy influenced local cuisine for centuries. Enjoying these specialties while exploring the city allows you to connect with Hangzhou’s rich cultural and gastronomic heritage.

5. Modern & Trendy Items 
Hangzhou is not only a city of tradition but also a hub for modern creativity and lifestyle trends. Visitors can discover a variety of contemporary products that blend design, practicality, and artistic expression.

Creative and Cultural Products: Modern cultural and creative goods include designer stationery, artisan jewelry, unique home décor, and specialty coffee-related items. These products often combine aesthetics with functionality, reflecting Hangzhou’s growing design scene and emphasis on lifestyle beauty.

Recommended Shops: For a curated selection of trendy items, explore the creative shops around Hefang Street. Small boutiques and concept stores offer handmade accessories, limited-edition souvenirs, and innovative products that highlight local craftsmanship while catering to modern tastes.

Lifestyle Experience: Purchasing these items is more than just shopping; it is part of experiencing Hangzhou’s slow-living philosophy. You can enjoy browsing thoughtfully designed spaces, sipping artisanal coffee, or attending small workshops, all of which immerse you in a lifestyle that values quality, creativity, and mindfulness. These modern and trendy finds make perfect gifts or personal keepsakes while giving you a sense of the city’s contemporary cultural pulse.

Best Shopping Areas in Hangzhou (Shopping Districts & Markets)
1. Hefang Street 
Hefang Street is one of Hangzhou’s most iconic shopping streets, celebrated not only for its historic architecture but also for its rich cultural atmosphere that reflects the city’s long history. Lined with traditional Qing and Ming dynasty-style buildings, the street is a pedestrian-friendly area where old-world charm meets modern commerce. As you walk along Hefang Street, you can explore a variety of shops selling local handicrafts, heritage brand products, and souvenirs such as Zhang Xiaoquan scissors, Wang Xing Ji fans, and handmade silk items. Street vendors offer traditional snacks and specialty foods, including scallion pancake buns, candied lotus root, and Osmanthus-flavored treats, allowing you to taste the flavors of Hangzhou while shopping. Live performances, calligraphy demonstrations, and artisanal workshops bring the street to life, giving you the opportunity to observe and even participate in centuries-old crafts. The combination of shopping, dining, and cultural immersion makes Hefang Street a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to experience the authentic spirit of Hangzhou.

Shopping Highlights
Hefang Street is ideal for purchasing souvenirs, local specialties, and antiques. Popular items include Zhang Xiaoquan scissors, Wang Xing Ji fans, silk products, and specialty foods such as West Lake Lotus Root Starch or Osmanthus tea. The street is also home to numerous small boutiques offering handmade crafts and cultural products, giving you a chance to explore unique finds that reflect Hangzhou’s heritage.

Tips
Hefang Street can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon to early evening, when the street comes alive with lights, street performances, and bustling vendors. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting on weekdays or early in the morning before peak tourist hours.

Suggested Itinerary
You can plan a half-day slow stroll along Hefang Street, combining sightseeing, shopping, and cultural experiences. Many shops offer DIY workshops, such as fan painting or silk dyeing, allowing you to create a personalized souvenir while learning about local crafts. This combination of exploration and hands-on experience makes Hefang Street a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the essence of Hangzhou shopping culture.

2. Wulin Night Market
Wulin Night Market is one of the most vibrant evening destinations in Hangzhou, renowned for its wide variety of local snacks, bustling stalls, and lively, energetic atmosphere. Located near the heart of the city at Wulin Square, the night market has become a favorite gathering spot for both locals finishing their workday and tourists eager to explore authentic Hangzhou street food. As you stroll through the maze of illuminated stalls, you can sample traditional delicacies such as stinky tofu, crayfish, scallion pancake buns, and sweet candied lotus root, each offering a taste of the city’s culinary heritage. The market is also a hub for small handmade goods, souvenirs, and quirky trinkets, reflecting Hangzhou’s vibrant creative culture. Street performers, live music, and colorful lanterns add to the festive ambiance, creating a sensory-rich experience that combines sights, sounds, and flavors. Visiting Wulin Night Market not only allows you to indulge in delicious food but also offers an authentic glimpse into the local way of life, where tradition and modern urban energy seamlessly coexist.

Shopping Highlights
While the main focus is food, the market also features stalls selling small trinkets, fashionable accessories, and daily-use items. Visitors can pick up fun souvenirs or quirky gadgets as they stroll, adding a touch of variety to the culinary journey.

Food and Local Delights
The highlight of Wulin Night Market is undoubtedly its wide range of street food. From grilled skewers, pan-fried dumplings, and spicy crayfish to Hangzhou-style delicacies like fried stinky tofu and sweet glutinous rice cakes, the market is a paradise for food lovers. The sizzling sounds, smoky aromas, and colorful dishes create an energetic and appetizing scene that perfectly reflects the city’s night-life charm.

Cultural Stories
Wulin Night Market is deeply rooted in Hangzhou’s urban night culture. For many locals, it is not just a place to eat but also a space to gather with friends, share stories, and enjoy the relaxed pace of evening life. The market reflects the modern blend of traditional snacks with the fast-paced rhythm of city living.

Suggested Itinerary
A great way to enjoy Wulin Night Market is to start with a walk around the stalls to get a feel for the atmosphere, then select a few signature dishes to try while chatting with locals or fellow travelers. Pairing the food experience with an evening stroll around nearby Wulin Square offers a glimpse of Hangzhou’s vibrant cityscape, making it a well-rounded night out.

3. Hubin Shopping Area
The Hubin Shopping Area is Hangzhou’s premier destination for high-end shopping, offering a sophisticated blend of luxury brands, modern malls, and picturesque views of West Lake. This bustling district features internationally renowned fashion labels, designer boutiques, and upscale department stores, catering to travelers seeking quality, style, and exclusivity. Beyond shopping, the area provides a scenic and leisurely environment, with tree-lined streets, elegant cafes, and riverside walkways that allow you to take in the serene beauty of West Lake while exploring the latest trends. Seasonal displays, promotional events, and membership perks add to the premium shopping experience, making it easy to combine retail therapy with cultural appreciation. Whether you are browsing for high-end fashion, exquisite jewelry, or luxury home décor, the Hubin Shopping Area offers a complete experience where modern sophistication meets Hangzhou’s natural charm, ensuring every visit is both enjoyable and memorable.

Shopping Highlights
Here you can find international luxury brands, flagship stores, and stylish boutiques. Major shopping centers include MixC, Hangzhou Tower, and Intime City, offering everything from designer clothing and jewelry to high-quality home goods. Hubin also features specialty stores for local premium products such as Longjing tea and handcrafted silk items.

Shopping Tips
To make the most of your visit, pay attention to store policies for returns and exchanges, especially during the peak shopping season. Many stores offer seasonal discounts and promotions, and membership cards can provide extra perks and savings. Planning your shopping around sales events or weekday visits can help you enjoy a more relaxed experience.

Suggested Itinerary
A perfect day in the Hubin area combines high-end shopping with a leisurely stroll along the West Lake waterfront. You can start your day browsing luxury stores and exploring modern malls, then take a break with coffee or tea at a lakeside café. Finish your afternoon with a scenic walk along the West Lake promenade, enjoying the blend of contemporary commerce and natural beauty that makes this area so special.

4. Silk Market
The Silk Market in Hangzhou offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s long-standing silk tradition while shopping for high-quality products. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in textiles, fashion, and cultural heritage.

Shopping Highlights
At the Silk Market, you can browse a wide variety of silk products, including scarves, garments, bedding, and home décor. The market features both contemporary designs and traditional patterns, making it suitable for fashion enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Authenticity Tips
When purchasing silk, it is important to distinguish genuine silk from synthetic alternatives. Look for a smooth texture, natural sheen, and fine weaving. Certified shops or stores recommended by local guides are the safest places to ensure you are buying authentic silk.

Cultural Insights
Silk has been an integral part of Hangzhou’s economy and culture for centuries. The city played a central role in the historic Silk Road, and the techniques of silk weaving and dyeing have been passed down through generations. Visiting the market gives you a glimpse of this rich history and the artistry behind each product.

Suggested Itinerary
Combine your visit to the Silk Market with a hands-on experience, such as a silk dyeing or simple weaving workshop. This allows you to not only shop but also participate in the creation process, deepening your understanding of Hangzhou’s silk culture and making your shopping experience both educational and memorable.

5. Tea Villages – Meijiawu & Longjing Village
Meijiawu Village and Longjing Village are the most authentic destinations for purchasing West Lake Longjing tea and experiencing Hangzhou’s rich tea culture. These scenic villages offer visitors a unique combination of shopping, education, and immersive cultural experience.

Shopping Highlights
These villages are the best places to buy genuine Longjing tea directly from local growers. You can find a variety of grades and flavors, ensuring that you take home high-quality, authentic tea. Purchasing from the source also allows you to learn about pricing, selection, and proper storage from knowledgeable vendors.

Tea Garden Experience
Visiting the tea plantations allows you to explore the lush green fields where the famous leaves are grown. You can participate in hands-on activities such as tea picking, traditional tea processing, and tea tasting sessions, giving you a full appreciation of the craftsmanship behind each cup.

Exclusive Highlights
Through our curated itinerary, you can enjoy a deeper tea village experience, combining shopping, cultural immersion, and interactive activities. This route allows you to fully engage with the environment, learn the history and techniques of Longjing tea production, and savor freshly brewed tea amid the serene village landscapes.

6. Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
Beyond the well-known shopping streets and markets, Hangzhou offers a wealth of hidden gems and local favorites where you can discover unique products and enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience.

Creative Shops and Cultural Markets
Explore small, artistic boutiques and pop-up cultural markets that feature handmade crafts, creative souvenirs, and lifestyle products. These shops often carry limited-edition items that you won’t find in mainstream stores, making them perfect for thoughtful gifts or personal keepsakes.

Shopping Meets Leisure and Culture
Shopping in these hidden corners can be combined with other leisurely experiences, reflecting Hangzhou’s philosophy of slow living. For example, you could take a stroll along Hefang Street, stop at a workshop to paint a handmade fan, and finish the afternoon with a cup of freshly brewed Longjing tea. This combination of shopping, cultural engagement, and relaxation allows you to enjoy the city at a more intimate pace and fully appreciate its unique lifestyle.

Shopping Experiences and Tips (Beyond Buying)
Shopping in Hangzhou is not just about purchasing items; it is also about engaging with the culture, learning local customs, and enjoying interactive experiences.

Bargaining and Shopping Etiquette
When shopping in markets or small boutiques, polite bargaining is common. Approach vendors respectfully and with a friendly attitude, as this enhances your experience and often results in better deals. Avoid haggling in high-end malls or chain stores, where fixed pricing is the norm.

Payment Methods and Returns
Most shops accept mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay, in addition to cash. For larger purchases, such as Longjing tea or silk products, check the store’s policy on returns and exchanges. Keep receipts or take photos of purchased items for reference, especially when buying souvenirs that may require certification of authenticity.

Family and Couple Shopping Recommendations
Hangzhou’s shopping areas are suitable for both families and couples. For families, markets like Hefang Street provide spacious walkways, kid-friendly snacks, and hands-on workshops. Couples can enjoy a more leisurely experience, combining boutique browsing with cultural activities such as tea tasting or DIY crafts.

Experiential Shopping
Enhance your shopping experience by participating in interactive activities. You can attend tea ceremonies, join DIY workshops for fan painting or silk dyeing, or engage in other cultural programs offered at specialty stores. These experiences make shopping educational and memorable.

Seasonal Tips
Certain items, such as festival decorations, seasonal snacks, or special edition crafts, are only available during specific times of the year. Plan your visit according to holidays or seasonal sales to enjoy exclusive offerings and better deals.

This combination of practical tips, interactive experiences, and cultural engagement ensures that shopping in Hangzhou is both enjoyable and meaningful.

Themed Shopping Travel Tips
Customize your Hangzhou shopping experience based on your interests and travel companions to make the most of your visit.

Family Shopping Route
For families, focus on souvenirs, local snacks, and cultural creative products. Stroll through Hefang Street or Wushan Night Market to browse kid-friendly items, sample treats like scallion pancake buns or candied lotus root, and participate in interactive workshops such as fan painting or simple craft activities. This route combines shopping with hands-on fun that children and adults alike will enjoy.

Couple Shopping Route
Couples can enjoy a more leisurely and romantic experience by exploring handmade umbrellas, artisanal souvenirs, and boutique items. Pair your shopping with an afternoon tea experience at a scenic café or tea house near West Lake, creating moments to relax, enjoy local delicacies, and capture memories together.

High-End Shopping Route
For those seeking luxury and premium products, focus on silk items, Longjing tea, and designer stores in the Hubin Shopping Area or MixC Mall. Take advantage of membership perks, seasonal discounts, and VIP services while combining shopping with a scenic West Lake stroll or a refined dining experience.

Conclusion
Hangzhou is a city where culture, souvenirs, local cuisine, and modern lifestyle blend seamlessly, offering a truly unique shopping experience. From traditional handicrafts and heritage brands to contemporary creative products and gourmet delights, every corner of the city provides opportunities to explore its rich history and vibrant culture.

By following our curated itinerary, you can easily enjoy a deep and immersive experience, combining shopping with cultural insights, hands-on activities, and local flavors. Whether you are looking for authentic Longjing tea, exquisite silk, handmade fans, or trendy boutique items, Hangzhou has something for every traveler.

Book your Hangzhou Shopping & Culture Tour today to experience the best of what the city has to offer. Discover what to buy in Hangzhou, enjoy shopping in Hangzhou like a local, and explore the top spots for Hangzhou shopping while creating unforgettable memories.

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