Hi, I’m Alex Chen — a budget traveler who lives out of a 30L backpack and believes in buying smarter, not pricier. I skip the luxury malls and head straight into back alleys and corner shops to find souvenirs that are actually worth bringing home. After three snack-filled weeks exploring Shanghai, this is my tried-and-tested list of the best local goodies. I’ve carried these back myself, gifted them to friends, and even learned the hard way with a few flops — hopefully, this saves you the money and face!

Summary

Shanghai Souvenirs – Snacks & Drinks

Lay’s Chips – China-Exclusive Flavors

Lay’s Cucumber Flavor Potato Chips from China

Walk into any convenience store in Shanghai and you’ll be greeted by shelves full of Lay’s chips — but not the ones you’re used to. The China edition offers all kinds of regional-exclusive flavors, especially in Shanghai. Look out for Spicy Crawfish, Fragrant Hotpot, Cucumber, and Scallion Pancake — flavors that are as fun as they are tasty. These are only available in China, which makes them a cool cultural gift for your friends back home. Lightweight, crush-resistant, and often sold with bundle deals, these are a smart pick for any traveler on a budget.

  • Price: CNY 5–CNY 8 per bag
  • Where to buy: FamilyMart, Lawson, major supermarkets

White Rabbit Candy

White Rabbit Creamy Candy Gift Packs in Shanghai

White Rabbit is arguably the most iconic sweet from Shanghai — a nostalgic treat that’s been around since 1959. The signature milky candy is wrapped in edible rice paper and melts smoothly in your mouth. In recent years, they’ve launched new flavors like strawberry milk and matcha, and even branched out into creative collabs like perfumes, hand creams, and plush toy gift boxes. Whether you’re buying for coworkers, friends, or yourself, White Rabbit is charming, affordable, and unmistakably Shanghainese.

Bestore Snack Packs (Liangpin Shop)

Bestore Snack Packs on Display in a Shanghai Store

Bestore is a well-known Chinese snack brand that focuses on fresh ingredients and wide variety. Their combo packs typically include dried fruits, nuts, meat jerky, and tofu bites — a perfect mix of sweet and savory that suits nearly anyone’s taste. During holidays, they often release themed boxes that come with little toys or greeting cards, making them extra giftable. If you’re on a budget but still want your souvenir to look thoughtful, this is your go-to.

  • Price: CNY 25–CNY 50 per pack
  • Where to buy: Bestore retail stores

Moutai Liquor

Kweichow Moutai Liquor Bottles at a Chinese Retail Shop

Moutai is China’s most prestigious white liquor brand — a national icon with a history and reputation to match. In Shanghai, it’s considered a high-end gift for elders, business partners, or serious collectors. While the classic Feitian Moutai remains the go-to, there are also vintage editions and zodiac gift sets that sometimes include crystal glasses for added flair. Be cautious of counterfeits; it’s best to shop only at licensed stores or duty-free airport shops.

  • Price: CNY 1,500–CNY 5,000 per bottle (53% alcohol, 500 ml)
  • Where to buy: Official Moutai stores in Shanghai, high-end liquor retailers, Pudong Airport, Hongqiao Airport

Shanghai Souvenirs – Pastries

Butterfly Pastry (Butterfly Cookies)

Shanghai Butterfly Pastry Gift Box from First Foodhall

Butterfly pastries are a classic Chinese dessert that’s crisp on the outside and soft within — a signature taste of old Shanghai. Made with layers of folded buttery dough shaped like butterfly wings, these pastries melt in your mouth with just the right touch of sweetness. The most famous version comes from the century-old brand Lao Da Chang, known for its rich flavor and elegant presentation. For a more budget-friendly option, Christine bakeries offer simpler versions that are perfect for gifting in bulk. Both brands typically sell them in tin boxes, which not only look nice but also protect them from breaking during transit. For better freshness, go for the ones with moisture-proof packaging.

  • Price: CNY 35–CNY 128 per box (varies by brand and weight)
  • Where to buy: Nanjing Road, Pudong Airport, Hongqiao Airport

Shendacheng Qingtuan & Tiaotou Cake

Shendacheng Qingtuan and Rice Cake Set in Shanghai

Shendacheng is a well-known Shanghai brand famous for traditional Chinese pastries, especially Qingtuan and Tiaotou Cake. Qingtuan is a seasonal springtime snack made of glutinous rice dough dyed green with wormwood or barley juice, often filled with red bean paste, salted egg yolk, or pork floss. Its soft texture and herbal aroma make it uniquely refreshing. Tiaotou Cake, on the other hand, is available year-round. This dense rice cake is rich and chewy, typically served with tea. Both pastries offer a deep dive into Jiangnan dessert culture and make thoughtful, culturally rich gifts for anyone interested in Chinese cuisine.

  • Price: CNY 20–CNY 60 per box (6–12 pieces)
  • Where to buy: Shendacheng retail stores

Shanghai Souvenirs – Cultural & Creative Gifts

Shanghai Disneyland Souvenirs

Disney StellaLou Plush Dolls from Shanghai Disneyland

Want to take home a piece of childhood magic with your Shanghai memories? Then head straight for the exclusive merchandise at Shanghai Disneyland. Each season brings a new themed collection with impressive design and high collectible value. These items are sold only inside the park and at Disneytown shops — once they’re gone, they’re gone. The best strategy is to hit the main store right when the park opens, or wait until after the evening light show when crowds have thinned. Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or buying for a child, these limited-edition goodies will definitely wow your recipients.

  • Price: CNY 49–CNY 399 per item (varies by product)
  • Where to buy: Shanghai Disneyland, official shops in Disneytown

Anime Goods

Giant Gundam Statue Outside LaLaport Shanghai Jinqiao

Shanghai is a dreamland for anime fans. If you’re into giant robots, don’t miss the Gundam Base at LaLaport Shanghai Jinqiao — it’s packed with limited-edition models, premium PB kits, and exclusive collab items. The store even features a massive Gundam statue for photo ops. Want to browse a wide variety of anime franchises in one place? Head to Bailian ZX Creative Plaza, which houses multiple brand-name stores like Bandai, Good Smile, and POP MART. You’ll find everything from acrylic keychains and plush figures to functional lifestyle goods.

  • Price: CNY 20–CNY 200+ per item (depends on brand and rarity)
  • Where to buy: LaLaport Shanghai Jinqiao Gundam Base (Apple Maps/Amap), Bailian ZX Creative Plaza (Apple Maps/Amap), POP MART stores

Yu Garden Cultural Goods

Shanghai-Themed Souvenir Magnets and Pins from Yuyuan Garden

A visit to Yu Garden isn’t complete without checking out its creative shopping zone. Here, you’ll find souvenirs that blend old Shanghai charm with modern design — think hand-painted folding fans featuring the city skyline, calligraphy stamps you can personalize on the spot, and beautifully designed washi tape and fabric-covered notebooks. These compact, stylish items make ideal gifts for artistic friends or mementos for yourself. It’s a good idea to browse multiple shops in the area to find your perfect design, as styles and quality can vary.

  • Price: CNY 29–CNY 199 per item
  • Where to buy: Yu Garden

Shanghai Souvenirs – Beauty & Skincare

Shanghai Lady Snow Cream

Shanghai Lady Snow Cream Retro Packaging Display

The “Shanghai Lady” Snow Cream is a retro-style skincare product that dates back to the Republic of China era. It comes in a vintage tin printed with an elegant woman in a qipao, and inside is a lightly minty cream that cools and refreshes your skin. This product was once a top beauty item across Asia, and it still enjoys loyal fans today — especially among older generations or those who love nostalgic gifts. It’s compact, budget-friendly, and stylishly packaged, making it a smart choice when buying gifts in bulk.

  • Price: CNY 15–CNY 30 per tin (35g)
  • Where to buy: Nanjing Road, Yu Garden

Florasis (Huaxizi) Makeup

Florasis Engraved Lipstick with Traditional Chinese Design

Florasis is one of China’s most talked-about beauty brands, blending traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern beauty tech. Its bestsellers — like the engraved lipsticks and airbrush-style loose powders — are not only functional but beautifully designed. Many of the gift sets are elaborate and collectible, making them excellent presents for anyone who appreciates skincare and design. For the best deals, head to the airport duty-free stores where prices are typically 15–20% lower than in town.

  • Price: CNY 119–CNY 499 per item or gift set
  • Where to buy: Florasis counters (Global Harbor Mall, Jiuguang Department Store), Pudong Airport, Hongqiao Airport

Qingzhi Hand Cream

Qingzhi Hand Cream Gift Set Display in Shanghai Boutique

Qingzhi is a rising boutique skincare brand from China known for its delicate scents and minimalist design. Their hand creams are particularly popular, with fragrances like Pear & White Tea and Osmanthus Mist that feel fresh and elegant. The formula absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy feel, and the tube design is so stylish it feels more like art than skincare. These make perfect low-cost gifts for coworkers, travel buddies, or anyone who appreciates thoughtful design.

  • Price: CNY 39–CNY 69 per tube (30–50g)
  • Where to buy: Nanjing Road, Tianzifang, local design gift stores like YanjiYou and MUSHU

Shanghai Souvenirs – Clothing & Textiles

Qipao (Cheongsam)

Modern Qipao Dresses on Display in a Shanghai Clothing Store

When it comes to iconic Shanghai fashion, the qipao sits right at the top. Unlike the traditional form-fitting versions, modern qipao have evolved with breathable cotton-linen fabrics and looser cuts, making them great for everyday wear. If you’re looking for a tailored experience, you can book a fitting at one of the studios in Tianzifang and pick up a custom-made piece in as little as two days. The color palette ranges from classic Shanghai red to trendy muted tones like Morandi hues. There’s usually room to bargain — about 10% — so don’t be shy. Whether you’re bringing it back for your mom or keeping it for your own wardrobe, a qipao makes a stylish and culturally meaningful souvenir.

  • Price: CNY 400–CNY 1,200 per piece (depending on material and craftsmanship)
  • Where to buy: South Bund Fabric Market, Tianzifang

Shanghai Silk & Gu Embroidery

High-End Shanghai Silk Scarf Gift Box with Elegant Packaging

If you want something light yet meaningful, Shanghai silk scarves and Gu embroidery are excellent picks. The pure silk scarves are smooth to the touch and often feature designs inspired by The Bund, Shanghainese floral motifs, or classic blue-and-white porcelain patterns. Easy to pack and elegant to wear, they’re perfect for travelers with limited space. Gu embroidery fans, on the other hand, blend traditional Chinese stitching with modern color palettes and are both decorative and practical. These make refined gifts for older relatives as well as trendy keepsakes for design lovers. For the best presentation, look for versions that come in dust bags or gift boxes.

  • Price: CNY 120–CNY 880 per piece
  • Where to buy: South Bund Fabric Market, Tianzifang, Pudong Airport, Hongqiao Airport

FAQ

Where’s the cheapest place to buy White Rabbit candy?

If you’re looking for the classic flavor, head to major supermarkets like Hema or Walmart, where prices are the most competitive — and you might catch a discount too. For special edition gift boxes or collabs, the White Rabbit flagship store on Nanjing Road has the widest selection, though prices tend to be a bit higher.

Can I bring Snow Cream on the plane?

Yes, you can! Products like the Shanghai Lady Snow Cream are under 100ml per tin, so they’re safe to carry in hand luggage. However, if you’re bringing several, packing them in your checked bag is more convenient.

What are the limited-edition souvenirs at Shanghai Disneyland?

Nearly every season comes with a new collection — limited-edition pins, keychains, and popcorn buckets are usually the hottest items. Your best bet is to head straight to the stores when the park opens, or shop after the nighttime show when crowds thin out.

Can I buy butterfly pastries at the airport?

Yes, you can. At Pudong Airport’s Terminal 2, there’s a Lao Da Chang kiosk that sells tin-boxed butterfly pastries, which are easy to pack. Just note that airport prices are usually 10–15% higher than in the city — but it’s a great last-minute backup.

Essential Shanghai Travel Resources