Best Markets in Hangzhou

Markets are one of the best ways to experience local life in Hangzhou. Whether you are hunting for Longjing tea, silk scarves, antiques or late-night snacks, the city has a market for you. This guide covers the best markets in Hangzhou and what to buy at each.

Types of Markets in Hangzhou

Tea Markets

Hangzhou has several large wholesale tea markets where you can buy Longjing and other Chinese teas at better prices than tourist shops.

Best for: Tea lovers, bulk buyers.

Tip: Taste before you buy and compare prices across stalls.

Silk Markets

These markets sell silk scarves, bedding, clothing and fabric. Quality varies, so inspect carefully.

Best for: Silk products, bargaining practice.

Antique Markets

Find old coins, ceramics, calligraphy and curios. Be aware that many items are reproductions.

Best for: Browsing, collectors.

Flower and Bird Markets

Traditional markets selling plants, birds, fish and small pets.

Best for: Photography, cultural experience.

Night Markets

Lively evening markets with food, clothes and small goods.

Best for: Street food, souvenirs, atmosphere.

Market Comparison

Bargaining Tips

• Start at 50–60% of the asking price.
• Walk away if the price is too high; sellers may call you back.
• Carry cash for small stalls.
• Be friendly but firm.
• Do not bargain in department stores or brand shops.

What to Buy Where

• Tea: Wholesale tea markets or Longjing Village.
• Silk: Silk Museum shop for quality, markets for deals.
• Souvenirs: Hefang Street for convenience.
• Snacks: Night markets and wet markets.

Top Markets in Detail

1. Jiefang Road Tea Market (解放路茶叶市场)

The largest wholesale tea market in Hangzhou. Dozens of vendors selling Longjing, Tieguanyin, Pu'er, and more.

Location: Jiefang Road, Shangcheng District | Hours: 08:00–17:00

Prices: ¥50–2,000/500g depending on grade | Bargaining: Expected (start at 50%)

Tip: Taste before buying — most vendors will brew samples

2. Hangzhou Silk Market (杭州丝绸市场)

A covered market specializing in silk products — scarves, ties, bedding, and clothing.

Location: Tiyuchang Road | Hours: 09:00–18:00

Prices: Scarves ¥20–80, bedding ¥100–500 | Bargaining: Expected

Tip: Check quality by holding silk up to light — real silk has an even weave

3. Wushan Antique Market (吴山古玩市场)

An antique and curio market with old coins, ceramics, jade, calligraphy, and Mao-era memorabilia.

Location: Wushan Road | Hours: 08:00–17:00 (weekends busier)

Prices: ¥10–1,000+ | Bargaining: Essential

Tip: Most "antiques" are reproductions. Buy for decoration, not investment.

4. Wushan Night Market (吴山夜市)

See our detailed Night Markets Guide.

5. Hangzhou Flower and Bird Market (杭州花鸟市场)

Plants, flowers, birds, fish, and small pets. More of a cultural experience than a shopping destination.

Location: Wushan area | Hours: 08:00–17:00

Prices: Plants ¥10–100, fish ¥5–50

6. Caihe Old Street Market (菜市桥老街市场)

A neighborhood wet market selling fresh vegetables, meat, tofu, and live seafood. Not for souvenirs, but fascinating for experiencing daily Chinese life.

Location: Near Caihe area, Xiacheng District | Hours: 05:00–12:00

Tip: Arrive before 08:00 for the best selection and atmosphere

Market Survival Guide

Bargaining Phrases

Payment at Markets

• Cash: King at small stalls. Carry ¥100–300 in small bills.
• Alipay/WeChat: Most vendors accept, but some older stalls are cash-only.
• Credit cards: Never accepted at markets.

FAQ