12 Best Shopping Malls & Shopping Places in Chengdu

Chengdu is the city famous for giant pandas, spicy Sichuan food, tea culture, and a relaxed lifestyle.

Yet, it is also one of the most interesting shopping cities in China.

Shopping in Chengdu means exploring luxury brands in shopping malls, commercial streets, handicrafts, tea rooms, and local markets.

For the average traveler who is visiting the Sichuan capital for the first time, there are a few difficult choices when it comes to where to shop in the city.

Some of the best shopping spots in Chengdu include shopping malls, commercial pedestrian streets, and traditional markets.

This 2026 Chengdu shopping guide covers both. Find the best shopping malls in Chengdu for luxury brands and entertainment as well as streets and markets full of souvenirs, tea, art, and more budget-friendly shopping options.

Why Go Shopping in Chengdu?

Chengdu offers some of the best shopping experiences due to the coexistence of modern retail offerings and traditional Sichuan culture within the city. 

There are several areas within Chengdu that offer everything from luxury designers to independent shops and restaurants all within close proximity to one another. 

Areas like Chunxi Road, Chengdu IFS, and Taikoo Li offer some of the best shopping experiences in Chengdu and can all be explored on the same trip.

Travel farther from the city center to discover vast lifestyle complexes, shopping centers, wholesale markets, antique stores, and traditional shopping streets.

These attractions offer locals and tourists a shopping experience that can be combined with sightseeing.

Best Shopping Malls in Chengdu

• Chengdu IFS – Best for Luxury Shopping & the Famous Panda

Chinese Name: 成都IFS

Area: Jinjiang District

Address: No. 1, Section 3, Hongxing Road, Chengdu

Best For: Luxury brands and dining experiences

As one of the most recognizable shopping malls in Chengdu, this luxury mall offers a variety of designers as well as dining and entertainment options. Located close to Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li, this shopping mall features international brands as well as Chinese brands.

However, shopping isn’t the only reason tourists come here.

The giant panda art installation that’s on the side of the mall makes it one of the most recognizable modern landmarks in Chengdu. Travelers who want to see the panda from a different perspective can head towards the rooftop of the building to take photographs of the creature.

Another reason that many travelers come to this mall is for its convenient location. With IFS, Chunxi Road, and Taikoo Li all within walking distance of one another, travelers can explore all three of these shopping centers in one day.

Best for: Luxury shopping, food, photography, and first-time visitors.

Combine with: Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li.

• Taikoo Li Chengdu – Best Open-Air Shopping Experience

Chinese Name: 成都远洋太古里

Area: Jinjiang District

Address: No. 8 Middle Shamao Street

Best For: Luxury fashion, cafes, architecture, lifestyle

The Taikoo Li is a shopping destination that offers visitors a very different experience from the conventional shopping malls in Chengdu.

The complex features an open plan design that includes walkways, courtyards, cafes, restaurants, and shops.

The complex features both traditional and contemporary architectural designs that provide a unique atmosphere for the visitors.

The area features luxury fashion brands and cafes that attract many shoppers and photography enthusiasts.

Its proximity to IFS and Chunxi Road makes it a well-connected shopping area that visitors can explore together.

Best for: Luxury brands, lifestyle shopping, cafes, and architecture.

Visitor Tip: Visit when the weather is comfortable since there are a few outdoor areas in the park.

• Chengdu SKP – Best for Designer Shopping

Area: Chengdu Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone

Best For: Luxury brands, designer fashion

If you are interested in the luxury shopping experience in Chengdu, then you should also consider visiting Chengdu SKP.

Chengdu SKP has a wide selection of luxury, designer, beauty, and jewelry brands. The mall features some of the best designs for shopping experiences rather than the most affordable prices for shoppers looking for luxury brands. Although IFS is the better choice for tourists due to its location in the city center and proximity to the panda park, Chengdu SKP might be the better choice if your primary reason for visiting Chengdu is for its luxury shopping options.

Best for: Designer fashion and luxury goods.

• New Century Global Center – Best for Families & Entertainment

Chinese Name: 新世纪环球中心
Area: Tianfu Avenue
Best For: Families, entertainment, shopping, full-day visits

New Century Global Center is much more than a shopping mall.

The complex includes a variety of attractions including hotels, shopping areas, restaurants, and even entertainment facilities within the mall.

One of the most well-known aspects of the center is its scale and the indoor entertainment facility within the location.

For families who are visiting Chengdu for a longer period of time, especially if the weather is less than welcoming for those who enjoy the outdoors, the New Century Global Center offers a variety of other activities and entertainment options.

Keep in mind that the figures describing the enormous size of New Century Global Center refer to the entire complex, not just the retail shopping area.

Best for: Families, entertainment, architecture, full-day visits

• Raffles City Chengdu – Best for Convenient City Shopping

Chinese Name: 成都来福士广场

Area: Wuhou District

Address: No. 3, Section 4, South Renmin Road

Best For: Fashion, dining, families

Raffles City Chengdu offers both local and international brands within this modern shopping complex.

Raffles City Chengdu caters to shoppers looking for fashion, dining options, entertainment, and everyday shopping services.

As opposed to destinations like IFS and SKP that focus on luxury brands and offerings, Raffles City offers a more everyday shopping experience for travelers.

Its mix of retail and dining makes it easy to spend a few hours here without needing to plan a full-day visit.

Best for general shopping, food, and families.

• Chengdu MixC – Best for Modern Lifestyle Shopping

Chinese Name: 成都万象城

Best For: Fashion, lifestyle, dining, entertainment

Chengdu MixC is another major piece of modern retail to consider:

Similar to the other MixC malls located throughout China, this shopping complex features a mix of fashion, lifestyle, dining, and entertainment retailers and services.

It offers a great alternative to the luxury malls in the city.

With its dining and entertainment options, this mall is perfect for spending several hours with the loved ones.

Best for: Lifestyle shopping, fashion, restaurants, and entertainment.

• Chengdu Yintai Centre in99 – Best for Premium Lifestyle Shopping

Chinese Name: 成都银泰中心in99

Best for: Premium fashion and lifestyle brands

Yintai Centre in99 adds another option to the shopping scene in Chengdu.

The shopping center features a variety of fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and dining brands and products for shoppers to explore.

While the other shopping districts in the city may cater to tourists looking to buy souvenirs, in99 is better suited for visitors who enjoy shopping in a mall setting.

It can also be an excellent alternative to shopping at IFS and Taikoo Li, two of Chengdu’s best shopping destinations.

Best for: Shopping for premium brands and shopping experiences.

• Chengdu Joy City – Best for Young Shoppers & Families

Chinese Name: 成都大悦城

Best For: Fashion, entertainment, young shoppers, families

Chengdu Joy City offers a more youthful and entertainment-oriented shopping experience for visitors.

The mall offers fashion retailers, restaurants, lifestyle businesses, entertainment, and family-oriented activities.

Rather than focusing on designer luxury retailers, this mall caters to those looking for an outing that features shopping, food, and entertainment.

Best for: Young shoppers, families, casual fashion, and entertainment.

Best Shopping Streets & Markets in Chengdu

Not every shopping destination in Chengdu is a mall.

In fact, some of the best shopping experiences in Chengdu can be had at the city’s traditional streets and markets that feature local souvenirs, tea, products, art, and often offer more competitive prices.

• Chunxi Road – Best Overall Shopping District

Chinese Name: 春熙路

Area: Jinjiang District

Best For: First-time visitors, fashion, food, general shopping

Chunxi Road is one of Chengdu’s best-known commercial areas and one of the best starting points for first-time visitors to the city.

Instead of being comprised of one shopping mall, Chunxi Road is a commercial district that features a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes, department stores, and entertainment areas.

One of the advantages of shopping on Chunxi Road is the range of prices for the products available.

There are a variety of international and Chinese brands available on the road, such as clothing, beauty products, food, and souvenirs.

Chunxi Road becomes especially lively after the shops open for the evening.

Another of the advantages of Chunxi Road is its location. Both the IFS and Taikoo Li shopping malls are nearby, allowing visitors to experience three of the city’s major shopping destinations in one trip.

Best for: First-time visitors and travelers with limited time.

Visitor Tip: Instead of spending your time walking the main street, allow several hours to explore the wider area.

• Jinli Ancient Street – Best for Traditional Souvenirs

Chinese Name: 锦里古街

Area: Wuhou District

Address: Near Wuhou Shrine

Best For: Souvenirs, traditional atmosphere, snacks

While Jinli is similar to many of the malls in Chengdu in terms of size, it offers a completely different experience.

This ancient street features traditional architecture, red lanterns, snacks, handicrafts, souvenirs, and several other experiences for travelers.

Some of the products to explore include decorative crafts, souvenirs, artwork, accessories, and souvenirs of the giant pandas that live in Chengdu.

Food is also one of the major experiences here.

Instead of visiting Jinli to buy something, consider this area as a combination of sightseeing, shopping, food, and culture.

Best for: Souvenirs, traditional gifts, snacks and photography.

Tip for visitors: Before buying souvenirs, compare prices in heavily visited tourist areas of Chongqing.

• Songxianqiao Art & Antique Market – Best for Art Lovers

Area: Qingyang District

Best for: Art, calligraphy and antiques

If travelers are interested in Chinese art and collectibles, Songxianqiao is an interesting destination to visit.

This market is well known for art, calligraphy and collectibles.

The shopping experience here is very different from Chengdu’s fashion malls.

Travelers should exercise care when purchasing items at this market that are claimed to be authentic antiques or collectibles.

Age, origin, and authenticity of many of the items for sale in this market can be difficult for casual visitors to verify.

Best for: Browsing artwork, calligraphy, and collectibles.

Visitor Tip: Unless you have the expertise to verify the authenticity of these items, it’s best to simply purchase any items that you like.

• Hehuachi Market – Best for Budget & Wholesale Shopping

Chinese Name: 荷花池

Best For: Wholesale products and budget shopping

This market is one of the best in Chengdu for wholesale and budget shopping. There are many categories of products to choose from within this market, including clothing, accessories, toys, and more. This market is vastly different from the upscale shopping malls in the city. Hehuachi Market is known for its budget prices and wholesale goods rather than luxury brands and goods.

Chengdu Wholesale District: What to Know

As with many large wholesale districts, things can change over time.

Best for budget-conscious shoppers who would like to browse wholesale stores.

Which Chengdu Shopping Place Should You Visit?

You don’t have to visit all the shopping destinations on the list. For your first time in Chengdu, visit Chunxi Road, IFS, and Taikoo Li for convenience. If shopping for luxury brands, head to IFS, Chengdu SKP, and Taikoo Li. Head to New Century Global Center with the family. For souvenirs, head to Jinli. For art and souvenirs on a budget, visit Songxianqiao and Hehuachi.

If you prefer shopping malls with a more modern lifestyle, the best to consider are MixC, Raffles City, or Joy City.

What to Buy in Chengdu

If you’re looking to shop in Chengdu, you don’t have to shop for international fashion brands.

There are several unique products that you can buy in Chengdu and take home as gifts.

Sichuan Tea

Chengdu is known for its tea culture.

Teas such as green tea and jasmine tea are available for purchase from several tea shops.

You can also find several tea sets and cups in these shops that make for great gifts.

Panda Souvenirs

As Chengdu is home to several giant pandas, there are several souvenirs dedicated to these animals.

You can find plush toys, magnets, stationery, bags, clothing, and decor products all over the city in tourist areas.

Sichuan Spices

Travelers interested in cooking can search for Sichuan peppercorns or other packaged seasonings.

Hotpot ingredients are also available for purchase. However, be sure to check the customs regulations of the country of interest before taking food products home.

Shu Embroidery

Shu embroidery is a craft associated with Sichuan.

Higher-quality embroidered products can make distinctive gifts for the travelers interested in more than the typical souvenir products.

Local Snacks

Chengdu is home to a huge variety of snacks that are available in sealed packages for convenience.

When purchasing snacks as gifts, ensure that the products comply with customs regulations of the country of interest.

Chinese Fashion & Lifestyle Brands

Several international brands call Chengdu home in their luxury malls. However, travelers can also explore the Chinese brands that represent the fashion, beauty, and lifestyle industry.

Exploring local brands can make your shopping experience more distinctive.

Best Places for Luxury Shopping in Chengdu

There are a few different places where luxury shopping visitors can go.

Chengdu IFS is convenient for international visitors.

Taikoo Li is another venue that offers an open-air experience and is also within walking distance of IFS.

Chengdu SKP is another place to visit if you are specifically looking for luxury shopping experiences.

If you are visiting Chengdu for a limited amount of time, IFS and Taikoo Li are both worth exploring instead of venturing out of town to discover each of the city’s luxury malls.

Best Places for Affordable Shopping in Chengdu

If you are not on a luxury shopping budget, Chengdu can cater to you.

Chunxi Road is a great area with a variety of shopping options of different price points.

Hehuachi is a place where visitors can find discounted products.

Jinli Road can be a good spot for souvenirs, although not the cheapest prices in the city.

Finally, the local areas offer a more everyday experience rather than the more tourist-focused shopping malls in the city.

Chengdu Shopping Tax Refund Guide for International Visitors

International visitors who plan to make larger purchases should check whether the shop they intend to visit participates in the tax refund program.

Overseas visitors who meet the requirements can receive a value-added tax (VAT) refund on the purchases they make from stores that are part of the program.

China continued improving the departure tax refund system in 2026.

Among the improvements was an effort to increase the number of stores that participate in the program and to improve the convenience of overseas visitors who seek to claim the tax refund on their purchases.

China also operates a refund-upon-purchase system in its participating stores.

Under this system, overseas visitors who meet the requirements receive an amount equivalent to the tax refund at the time of purchase after completing the necessary procedures at the store, such as signing an agreement with the store and pre-authorizing their credit card for the value of the taxes they are to receive as a tax refund.

The final customs and verification requirements to complete upon leaving China.

From July 1, 2026, applications for tax refunds on goods valued at below RMB 10,000 will be subject to random physical inspections of the goods instead of every application for refund of this type will be subject to such an inspection.

As the regulations and eligible stores may change, it is always a good idea to ask the store regarding their specific eligibility before purchasing expensive goods.

A useful question to ask is: “Do you offer departure tax refunds for overseas visitors?”

Keep your passport and any other required documents with you until you leave China.

Planning a shopping trip to Shenzhen? Don’t miss the city’s famous Shopping Malls in Shenzhen. Whether you want luxury brands, trendy stores, or fun activities, Shenzhen malls have it all. 

How to Pay While Shopping in Chengdu

Mobile payments are extremely common in China.

Alipay and WeChat Pay are two of the most common forms of payment in Chengdu, which can be utilized in most shops of all sizes.

Travelers from abroad should prepare their preferred means of payment prior to beginning their shopping experience.

Most shopping malls and international brands will accept bank cards, but it is always helpful to have cash on hand in case of change of merchants or shops.

While each of the mentioned payment methods are useful in Chengdu, it is to your advantage to have more than one means of payment at your disposal.

The best time of year to shop in Chengdu can vary depending on the shopping mall that you visit.

While many shopping malls in Chengdu are open and offer a great shopping experience for visitors throughout the year, the experiences between the different seasons can vary.

Spring, which lasts from March until May, is a great time of year to visit Chengdu for shopping season.

Spring is generally comfortable for those who wish to combine indoor shopping destinations with outdoor shopping areas like Taikoo Li and Chunxi Road.

Summer: June to August

Summer in Chengdu can be hot, humid, and rainy. 

Indoor shopping malls like IFS, SKP, Raffles City, and Global Center offer respite from the heat.

If exploring outdoor shopping areas, be sure to bring an umbrella.

Autumn: September to November

Autumn offers shoppers pleasant weather to explore the shopping streets in Chengdu.

Keep in mind that during these months, shopping areas may be filled with shoppers who are celebrating major holidays.

Winter: December to February

Winter in Chengdu is well suited to shopping at indoor malls.

During the winter months, many of Chengdu’s commercial districts feature decorations for holidays like Chinese New Year, seasonal products, and special events.

Practical Chengdu Shopping Tips

Visit Popular Areas on Weekdays

Some of the most popular areas of Chengdu can become overcrowded over the weekends and holidays.

Visiting these areas on a weekday can offer shoppers a more comfortable experience.

Save Chinese Names and Addresses

Save the Chinese name of the shopping destination on your phone.

This would be of use if you plan on taking a taxi or using one of the various ride-hailing services in Chengdu.

Use Translation Tools

While many establishments will have English speaking staff, there may be instances where English is not spoken.

In these cases, using a translation tool on your phone will come in handy, especially when visiting markets.

Bargain Only Where Appropriate

Bargaining is possible in some markets in the city.

Prices can be negotiated when shopping at traditional and wholesale markets.

However, bargaining is not practiced in luxury brands, department stores, supermarkets, and retail stores in shopping malls.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Areas like Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li have plenty of shopping and walking to do.

Major developments like Global Center can also take considerable time to explore.

Check Current Opening Hours

The opening hours for malls, restaurants, attractions, and markets can change over time.

Checking the opening hours of a specific location is a good idea before making a special journey to the area, especially around public holidays.

Be Careful When Buying Antiques

If you are purchasing an expensive item due to the seller’s claims of its age, rarity, and value, seek appropriate expertise in the area.

In some cases, certain cultural objects and antiques cannot be taken out of China.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best shopping mall in Chengdu?

Chengdu IFS is one of the strongest choices for first-time visitors due to the plethora of luxury brands, restaurants, entertainment options, and the famous climbing panda installation located in this area.

For those interested in designer shopping, Chengdu SKP may be of more interest to you. However, if you have young children, New Century Global Center might be a better fit for your family.

What is the most famous shopping street in Chengdu?

Chunxi Road is one of the most famous shopping streets in Chengdu. This shopping district is located near both Chengdu IFS and Taikoo Li. Therefore, it has become an area of interest for first time visitors to Chengdu.

Where is the best luxury shopping in Chengdu?

Chengdu’s best luxury shopping experiences can be had at either IFS, Taikoo Li, or Chengdu SKP.

Where can I buy souvenirs in Chengdu?

Jinli is one of the easiest places for international tourists to browse for souvenirs, handicrafts, snacks and panda themed products.

Where can I shop cheaply in Chengdu?

Hehuachi is a place where tourists can shop for budget products. Additionally, Chunxi Road is a location where tourists can find various retail shops selling products of all price ranges.

What should I buy in Chengdu?

Some of the most popular products for tourists to purchase include Sichuan tea, panda souvenirs, Sichuan pepper, hotpot seasonings, Shu embroidery, snacks, tea accessories and artwork from Chinese brands.

Can tourists get tax refunds when shopping in Chengdu?

Overseas tourists are allowed to claim the value of tax (VAT) from products purchased from stores that offer tax refunds. The exact requirements for this offer can be found on the official Chinese government website.

Some participating stores also offer refund-upon-purchase services.

Make sure to ask if the retailer whether you can claim a refund before completing your purchase.

Can I use foreign cards in Chengdu shopping malls?

Not all shops in Chengdu accept foreign cards. However, most major shopping malls do accept foreign cards. Mobile payment platforms are common throughout China.

Are Chengdu shopping malls open at night?

Most shopping malls in Chengdu are open past 10pm. However, each shopping mall has its own specific hours for their shops, restaurants, attractions, and holidays.

Before you visit a shopping mall in Chengdu, make sure to check their opening hours.

Final Thoughts

Chengdu offers a level of diversity in its shopping spots that goes beyond the simple list of shopping malls in the city.

For first-time visitors, the best starting point is Chunxi Road, Chengdu IFS, and Taikoo Li, all of which are located in the same part of the city.

If shopping for luxury brands, head to Chengdu SKP. For families looking to spend time at an entertainment center, the New Century Global Center could be the best spot in Chengdu.

For visitors looking to explore the city’s traditional side, Jinli is the spot to be in Chengdu. For art and collectible enthusiasts, Songxianqiao could be a better choice for shopping.

A combination of modern and traditional shopping spots in Chengdu offers the best shopping experience. While there are plenty of international brands in the shopping malls in Chengdu, there are also plenty of opportunities to explore for Sichuan tea products, local products, Chinese fashion brands, and a traditional shopping street in the city.

Shopping in Chengdu allows tourists to explore the city’s culture and people’s daily lives in addition to shopping for products themselves.