Shanghai

🛍️

Shopping Malls

Sections

1. IFC Mall (International Finance Center)

  • Location: 8 Century Avenue, Lujiazui, Pudong District
  • Specialty: Luxury brands and high-end shopping
  • Transportation: Directly connected to Lujiazui Station (Metro Line 2)
  • Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Highlights:
    • Home to global luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, and Cartier.
    • Features high-end dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants and international cuisines.
    • The mall also houses an IMAX cinema for a premium movie experience.
  • Cultural Tip: Luxury shopping in Shanghai often includes personalized service. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance or inquire about tax refunds for tourists (available for purchases over RMB 500 at participating stores).
  • Entertainment: The rooftop garden offers stunning views of the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and the Huangpu River.

2. Plaza 66

  • Location: 1266 Nanjing West Road, Jing’an District
  • Specialty: Ultra-luxury shopping
  • Transportation: Accessible via Metro Line 2 or Line 7 (Jing’an Temple Station)
  • Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Highlights:
    • Houses flagship stores for brands like Hermès, Prada, and Dior.
    • Known for its sleek, modern architecture and exclusive shopping experience.
    • Features fine dining restaurants and cafes, perfect for a luxurious break.
  • Cultural Tip: Dressing well is appreciated in high-end malls like Plaza 66. It’s also common for staff to offer tea or water while you shop.
  • Entertainment: Occasionally hosts art exhibitions and fashion events.

3. Global Harbor

  • Location: 3300 Zhongshan North Road, Putuo District
  • Specialty: Family-friendly shopping and entertainment
  • Transportation: Directly connected to Jinshajiang Road Station (Metro Lines 3, 4, and 13)
  • Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Highlights:
    • One of the largest malls in Shanghai, with a European-style interior design.
    • Offers a mix of mid-range and affordable brands like Zara, H&M, and Uniqlo.
    • Features a wide range of dining options, from Chinese street food to Western fast food.
  • Entertainment:
    • A large indoor amusement park and arcade for kids and families.
    • A cinema and frequent live performances in the central atrium.
  • Cultural Tip: Weekends can be crowded, so plan your visit during weekdays for a more relaxed experience.

4. Xintiandi Style Mall

  • Location: 245 Madang Road, Huangpu District
  • Specialty: Boutique shopping and trendy local designers
  • Transportation: Close to South Huangpi Road Station (Metro Line 1)
  • Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Highlights:
    • Focuses on contemporary fashion, local designer brands, and unique lifestyle stores.
    • Located in the trendy Xintiandi area, known for its historic Shikumen architecture and vibrant nightlife.
    • Features stylish cafes and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely meal or coffee break.
  • Cultural Tip: This is a great place to discover emerging Chinese designers and pick up unique souvenirs.
  • Entertainment: The surrounding Xintiandi area offers live music, bars, and cultural attractions.

5. Super Brand Mall

  • Location: 168 Lujiazui West Road, Pudong District
  • Specialty: All-in-one shopping and entertainment
  • Transportation: Near Lujiazui Station (Metro Line 2)
  • Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Highlights:
    • A massive mall with over 13 floors of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
    • Features a mix of international and local brands, including Nike, Adidas, and Sephora.
    • Offers a wide variety of dining options, from food courts to upscale restaurants.
  • Entertainment:
    • A large indoor play area for kids.
    • A cinema and frequent promotional events, such as product launches and seasonal sales.
  • Cultural Tip: Super Brand Mall is popular with families, so it can get busy on weekends. Arrive early to avoid long lines at restaurants.

6. K11 Art Mall

  • Location: 300 Huaihai Middle Road, Huangpu District
  • Specialty: Art and lifestyle shopping
  • Transportation: Close to Huangpi South Road Station (Metro Line 1)
  • Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Highlights:
    • Combines shopping with art exhibitions and installations.
    • Features a mix of high-end and mid-range brands, as well as unique concept stores.
    • Offers a variety of dining options, including trendy cafes and international cuisines.
  • Entertainment:
    • Regular art exhibitions and cultural events.
    • A rooftop garden and interactive art spaces.
  • Cultural Tip: K11 is a great place to experience Shanghai’s blend of modernity and creativity. Check their website or app for event schedules.

7. AP Plaza (Science and Technology Museum Market)

  • Location: 2002 Century Avenue, Pudong District
  • Specialty: Bargain shopping and souvenirs
  • Transportation: Directly connected to Science and Technology Museum Station (Metro Line 2)
  • Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Highlights:
    • A bustling underground market offering everything from clothing and accessories to electronics and souvenirs.
    • Known for its affordable prices and the opportunity to haggle.
  • Cultural Tip: Bargaining is expected here. Start by offering 50% of the asking price and negotiate from there. Be polite but firm.
  • Entertainment: While primarily a shopping destination, the nearby Science and Technology Museum is a great spot for families.

8. IAPM Mall

  • Location: 999 Huaihai Middle Road, Xuhui District
  • Specialty: Late-night shopping and dining
  • Transportation: Connected to South Shaanxi Road Station (Metro Lines 1, 10, and 12)
  • Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM (some restaurants and cafes open until midnight)
  • Highlights:
    • A mix of luxury and mid-range brands, including Apple, Muji, and COS.
    • Features a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining.
  • Entertainment:
    • A cinema and regular promotional events.
    • Late-night shopping and dining make it a popular spot for night owls.
  • Cultural Tip: IAPM is a favorite among young professionals and expats. It’s a great place to experience Shanghai’s vibrant nightlife.

General Tips for Visiting Shopping Malls in Shanghai:

  1. Payment Methods: Most malls accept major credit cards, but mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. Carry some cash for smaller vendors.
  2. Tax Refunds: Tourists can claim a tax refund on purchases over RMB 500 at participating stores. Keep your receipts and ask the store staff for assistance.
  3. Language: While many staff in luxury stores speak English, it’s helpful to have a translation app or basic Mandarin phrases for other stores.
  4. Peak Hours: Malls can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. Visit during weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
  5. Dining: Many malls have food courts offering affordable local dishes. Don’t miss trying Shanghai specialties like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).

Shanghai’s shopping malls offer more than just retail therapy—they’re hubs of culture, entertainment, and culinary delights. Whether you’re looking for luxury brands, local designers, or family-friendly activities, there’s a mall in Shanghai to suit your needs. Enjoy your shopping adventure!