Travel Notes
China Knowledge

Bargaining in China: Markets, Scenic Spots & Online Shopping

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Where to Bargain

Bargaining is expected: Yiwu wholesale market, Beijing Silk Street, Shanghai Chenghuang Temple, antique markets, scenic area souvenir stalls. No bargaining: Supermarkets, convenience stores, brand boutiques, fixed-price online listings.

Bargaining Strategy

Opening prices are typically 3–5x the fair value. Strategy: show interest without urgency → counter at 20–30% of asking price → pretend to walk away when stuck → final price usually lands at 40–60% of opening. Once you make a counter-offer, you’re expected to buy if your price is accepted.

Online Shopping

Taobao/Tmall (Alibaba) and JD.com are the main platforms, accepting foreign credit cards. Pinduoduo has the lowest prices but variable quality. 7-day no-questions-asked returns are a legal right. International shipping back home is available; fees are weight-based.

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