Gansu Shopping
Gansu, an important stop along the ancient Silk Road, is not only a place rich in history but also a hub for unique cultural products and local specialties. From modern shopping centers to traditional markets, Gansu offers an exciting mix of souvenirs that reflect its cultural heritage. Below are some must-visit places and the best items to buy in Gansu.
1️⃣ Gansu Provincial Museum
What to Buy:
The Gansu Provincial Museum is a treasure trove of quirky and charming cultural products. Among the popular items is the "Sweetheart Lily," a cute and unique souvenir that can be hung on bags or displayed at home. These products highlight the local culture and history, making them excellent mementos of your visit.
Where to Buy:
Visit the museum's cultural shop, where you'll find a wide variety of locally-themed items, perfect for collectors or anyone looking for a special gift.
2️⃣ Dunhuang Airport Gambo Cultural Shop
What to Buy:
If you missed out on buying souvenirs at the Gambo Museum, the Gambo Cultural Shop at Dunhuang Airport is another great place to shop. The "Galloping Horse" figurine is a popular item here, capturing the essence of Dunhuang’s rich cultural history.
Where to Buy:
Located at Dunhuang Airport, this shop is a convenient stop for last-minute cultural purchases before you leave the region.
3️⃣ Jiayuguan Cultural Shop
What to Buy:
The cultural shop at Jiayuguan Scenic Area offers a variety of unique items inspired by the local culture. After exploring Jiayuguan, stop by this shop to pick up something meaningful, such as intricate handicrafts or traditional souvenirs.
Where to Buy:
Inside the Jiayuguan Scenic Area, this shop is a perfect place to pick up a souvenir that reflects the historical significance of the area.
4️⃣ Dunhuang Night Market
What to Buy:
The Dunhuang Night Market is a bustling hub for cultural products and local delicacies. Here, you’ll find a variety of handmade items and traditional crafts, including pottery, textiles, and wood carvings. The "Dunsheng Wholesale Shop" is particularly popular for affordable souvenirs.
Where to Buy:
Visit the Dunhuang Night Market to explore a range of items, from traditional handicrafts to modern creative designs.
5️⃣ Dunhuang 1900
What to Buy:
Dunhuang 1900 is both a cultural shop and a trendy coffee shop. Besides its beautiful cultural products, they serve drinks with artistic latte designs, including Apsaras and Pipa motifs from Dunhuang murals. The red date latte and cucumber pear juice are signature drinks here.
Where to Buy:
Located in the heart of Dunhuang, this shop is perfect for combining your love of culture with a relaxing break. Enjoy a unique coffee experience while shopping for cultural souvenirs.
6️⃣ Miss Luo’s Crispy Biscuit Shop
What to Buy:
Miss Luo's Crispy Biscuit Shop, located near Dunhuang 1900, offers a variety of local snacks, including date cakes and other sweet treats. The cakes are fragrant, lightly sweet, and reasonably priced.
Where to Buy:
Stop by this shop for a quick snack or souvenir to take home. It’s located just 100 meters from Dunhuang 1900, so it’s easy to find while you're in the area.
7️⃣ Luo Xiaobei
What to Buy:
At Luo Xiaobei, located in the Dunhuang Night Market, you can enjoy apricot iced tea and purchase sweet-and-sour sand fruit dried snacks. The packaging is beautiful, making these items ideal gifts for friends and family.
Where to Buy:
This specialty shop is in the Dunhuang Night Market, where you’ll find a variety of local treats and cultural products.
Shopping Malls and Districts to Explore
Century Spring (Shi Ji Chun Tian)
Known as "the largest super vessel of a department store in Northwest China," Century Spring is a top shopping destination in Lanzhou. The shopping center is located in the heart of Lanzhou’s business district, Nanguan Cross, and offers a variety of international brands and local products.
Where to Buy:
Visit Century Spring for a diverse shopping experience with everything from fashion to local cultural products.
Lanzhou Chengguan Wanda Plaza
Lanzhou Chengguan Wanda Plaza, established in 2014, is located in Chengguan district, just one kilometer from the Yellow River scenic line. It offers a mix of local and international brands, as well as a beautiful riverside and lake view. You’ll find many local specialties here, including regional snacks and souvenirs.
Where to Buy:
This modern shopping mall is ideal for those looking for both international brands and local treasures.
Zhangye Road Pedestrian Street
Zhangye Road Pedestrian Street is a trendy shopping area in Lanzhou's Chengguan district, combining fashion, creative markets, and restaurants that serve Northwest China’s specialties. It’s a great spot to pick up unique gifts, fashion items, and local products.
Where to Buy:
Explore this pedestrian street for a wide variety of shopping experiences, from fashion to traditional Northwest Chinese products.
Shopping Tips for Gansu
- Variety of Cultural Shops: Gansu is filled with unique cultural shops that offer beautiful, locally made products. Take your time to explore different stores, as each shop offers something distinct.
- Stamp Souvenirs: Many cultural shops in Gansu offer souvenir stamps. Make sure to collect them as a unique memento of your trip.
- Check Online for Better Deals: If you find something you like but want a better price, try checking online for local deals. Sometimes, online shops offer discounted prices for the same items.
- Taste Before You Buy: When purchasing local specialties such as dates, apricots, or snacks, make sure to taste them first to ensure you’re getting the best quality product.
Gansu is not only a region with a deep historical background but also a place where culture and creativity meet. By purchasing a cultural product or local specialty, you’ll take home a piece of the rich heritage and unique artistry of this beautiful province.
