Taiyuan Shopping Guide – Where to Find the Best Souvenirs & Local Goods
Shopping in Taiyuan offers a delightful mix of modern malls, traditional markets, and unique Shanxi specialties that make perfect gifts or personal keepsakes. Whether you're looking for handicrafts, local snacks, or stylish fashion, this guide will lead you to the best shopping spots in the city.
1. Best Shopping Areas in Taiyuan
Liu Xiang Lane (柳巷) – The Heart of Taiyuan Shopping
What to Buy: Local snacks, clothing, souvenirs, and electronics.
Highlights:
Food stalls selling Shanxi specialties like youmian kaolao (oat noodles) and sweet fermented rice.
Night markets with affordable accessories, toys, and handicrafts.
Tip: Visit in the evening for a lively atmosphere and street performances.
Yingze Street (迎泽大街) – Modern Shopping District
What to Buy: Branded fashion, cosmetics, and department store goods.
Highlights:
Taiyuan Department Store – A high-end mall with international brands.
Parkson Mall – Great for luxury shopping and beauty products.
Tip: Look for seasonal sales (especially during Chinese holidays).
Xinjian Road (新建路) – Local Markets & Antiques
What to Buy: Traditional Shanxi crafts, calligraphy supplies, and antiques.
Highlights:
Shanxi Folk Art Shops – Handmade paper-cuttings, clay figurines, and lacquerware.
Secondhand Bookstores – Old Chinese literature and vintage posters.
Tip: Bargaining is acceptable in small shops (start at 50% of the asking price).
2. What to Buy in Taiyuan – Unique Souvenirs
Shanxi Vinegar (山西老陈醋)
Why Buy?: Famous for its rich, aged flavor—great for cooking.
Where to Buy: Donghu Vinegar Store (东湖醋园) or supermarkets.
Price: ¥20–¥100 per bottle.
Fenjiu Liquor (汾酒)
Why Buy?: One of China’s oldest distilled liquors, a premium gift.
Where to Buy: Fenjiu Flagship Store or duty-free shops.
Price: ¥100–¥500+ depending on age.
Shanxi Paper-Cuttings (剪纸)
Why Buy?: Intricate red-paper designs symbolizing luck and prosperity.
Where to Buy: Cultural Street markets or Jinci Temple souvenir shops.
Price: ¥10–¥50 per piece.
Coal Carvings (煤雕)
Why Buy?: Unique black sculptures made from Taiyuan’s coal.
Where to Buy: Shanxi Museum gift shop or Xinjian Road stalls.
Price: ¥50–¥300.
3. Shopping Malls & Supermarkets
MixC Mall (万象城)
What’s Inside: International brands (Zara, Uniqlo), a cinema, and food court.
Best For: Fashion, electronics, and Western-style cafes.
Wal-Mart & Carrefour
What’s Inside: Everyday goods, snacks, and local products.
Best For: Packaged Shanxi vinegar, tea, and travel-sized items.
4. Bargaining & Payment Tips
✔ Cashless Payments: Most stores accept Alipay/WeChat Pay (cash is rarely used).
✔ Bargaining: Expected in street markets but not in malls or supermarkets.
✔ Tax Refunds: Available for purchases over ¥500 at designated stores (ask for a receipt).
5. Final Shopping Tips
Avoid Tourist Traps: Compare prices before buying antiques or "handmade" goods.
Pack Light?: Many stores ship internationally (ask for assistance).
Local Markets: Early mornings offer the freshest food and best deals.
Now You’re Ready to Shop Taiyuan!
From traditional crafts to modern fashion, Taiyuan’s shopping scene has something for every traveler. Don’t leave without tasting Shanxi vinegar or picking up a paper-cutting masterpiece!