1. Science and Tech Fake Market
Take Metro Line 2 to the Science and Tech Museum, and you will be immediately greeted by a sea of underground shops selling everything and anything, most of which are cheap chinese knockoffs of name brand items. After some hard core bargaining, you can find fake Beats headphonsouvenirsouvenirs s ($25), suitcases ($30), Shanghai tshirts ($5), potable chargers ($10), chinese tea sets ($13), etc, etc. The place is a goldmine! Neighboring the fake market is also a small pearl market with pearl earrings going for around $1.50 after bargaining, and a small fabric market where you can get custom made clothing for low, low prices. But be warned, this place is a huge tourist hub, so expect shopkeepers to jack up the price just because you look foreign. Keep bargaining!
2. Tianzifang
Full of small alleyways and hidden nooks and crannies, Tiangzifang is a great way to spend an afternoon shopping and finding hidden gems. The place is full of random stuff like owl shaped picture frames, poorly translated Chinese-English coin purses, and full-body horse suits. There are also some mid range restaurants for you to relax and grab and bite to eat. I went to a toilet-themed restaurant there that was a little underwelming, but had descent food. This is also a popular stop for tourists and shanghainese alike, so expect the narrow streets to be very crowded.
3. Antique Market
Along Dongtai Lu is a small, yet lively, antique market, selling old propaganda posters, aged suitcases, beaded necklaces, mini jade statues, and more. The place had a lot of unique character, and after some hunting, can turn up some wonderful old finds! Also, this is the place to go if you want any Mao-based souviners.
4. Nanjing Lu Fake Market
Unlike the Science and Tech location, the Nanjing Lu Fake Market is much smaller and, at times, more manageable. With the same inexpensive knockoffs as its sister market, Nanjing Lu sees less foriengers and therefore the shopkeepers are more willing to bargain. It is also much less overwelming and often easier to find a specific thing you are looking for.
5. Zhongshan Park Tea Market
Located only a few blocks from the Zhongshan Park metro shop, Tea City is a tea-lovers paradise. Not only can you purchase tea, but you can also participate in and learn about traditional Chinese tea ceremonies. The amount and types of tea vary greatly, from $3 fruit tea to $100 pore tea. You can also head to the third floor to purchase high quality tea sets (warning, these will break the bank!). My personal favorite is fruit tea, which to me taste like warm juice–perfect for a night in!
So, what will be your number one shopping destination in Shanghai?