Ningbo, a vibrant city on China’s eastern coast, is not only a hub for international business but also a haven for expats and digital nomads seeking cultural immersion and local experiences. One of the best ways to dive into the heart of Ningbo’s culture is through its diverse markets. From bustling food markets to quaint craft stalls, Ningbo offers a variety of markets that cater to all tastes and preferences. Here are some of the best markets in Ningbo that you should not miss.
Tianyi Square Market
Location: Tianyi Square, Ningbo
Type of Market: Shopping and Food Market
Open: Daily, 10:00-22:00
Tianyi Square Market is a modern shopping haven located in the heart of Ningbo. This area is surrounded by a plethora of shops, ranging from international brands to local boutiques. The market area also features a variety of restaurants and street food vendors, offering a taste of Ningbo’s local cuisine. It’s a perfect spot for expats and digital nomads to shop for clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
We Recommend: Trying the local seafood snacks from street vendors, which are fresh and full of flavor, reflecting Ningbo’s coastal heritage.
Drum Tower Market
Location: Near the Drum Tower, Ningbo
Type of Market: Traditional Market
Open: Daily, 9:00-18:00
Drum Tower Market is a traditional Chinese market that takes you back in time. Located near the historic Drum Tower, this market is a labyrinth of small shops and stalls selling everything from spices and teas to textiles and antiques. It’s a great place to find traditional Chinese goods and gifts.
We Recommend: Picking up some Ningbo-style dried seafood or traditional Chinese tea as unique souvenirs or gifts.
Laowaitan Night Market
Location: Laowaitan, Ningbo
Type of Market: Night Market
Open: Evenings, especially on weekends
Laowaitan Night Market is a bustling hotspot for nightlife and street food. As the sun sets, the area comes alive with vendors selling a wide array of snacks, drinks, and small dishes. It’s a social gathering place for both locals and expats, offering a lively atmosphere to enjoy Ningbo’s culinary delights.
We Recommend: Sampling the grilled squid or oyster pancakes, which are local favorites and perfect for a savory treat.
Yinzhou Market
Location: Yinzhou District, Ningbo
Type of Market: Comprehensive Market
Open: Daily, 8:00-17:00
Yinzhou Market is a large, comprehensive market where you can find a wide range of products, including fresh produce, clothing, household items, and electronics. It’s a one-stop-shop for all your daily needs and a great place to practice your bargaining skills.
We Recommend: Exploring the fresh produce section for some of the freshest fruits and vegetables, sourced from local farms.
Intime City Shopping Mall
Location: Yinzhou District, Ningbo
Type of Market: Indoor Shopping Mall
Open: Daily, 10:00-22:00
Intime City Shopping Mall is not a traditional market, but it offers an upscale shopping experience with a mix of international and local brands. It also features a food court with a variety of dining options, from fast food to gourmet restaurants.
We Recommend: Visiting the food court to try some international cuisine or a high-end coffee shop for a relaxing break from shopping.
Cixi Shanglinfang Market
Location: Cixi, a county-level city under the jurisdiction of Ningbo
Type of Market: Cultural and Craft Market
Open: Weekends, 9:00-17:00
Cixi Shanglinfang Market is a cultural market that specializes in traditional Chinese crafts and artworks. It’s a bit of a journey from downtown Ningbo, but it’s worth the trip for those interested in art, calligraphy, and handmade items.
We Recommend: Looking for intricate Chinese calligraphy pieces or hand-painted ceramics, which make for beautiful decorations or thoughtful gifts.
Ningbo Old Bund Antique Market
Location: Jiangbei District, Ningbo
Type of Market: Antique Market
Open: Weekends, 9:00-16:00
Ningbo Old Bund Antique Market is a treasure trove for collectors and history enthusiasts. This market is known for its wide selection of antiques, vintage items, and collectibles. It’s a great place to browse and perhaps find a unique piece of Chinese history to take home.
We Recommend: Hunting for old Chinese coins, jade jewelry, or vintage teapots, which are often sought after by collectors and tourists alike.
Zhongshan Road Fashion Market
Location: Zhongshan East Road, Ningbo
Type of Market: Fashion and Accessories Market
Open: Daily, 10:00-22:00
Zhongshan Road Fashion Market is a bustling street lined with shops selling trendy clothing, shoes, and accessories. This market is particularly popular among the younger crowd and is a great place to find fashionable items at reasonable prices.
We Recommend: Checking out the latest in Chinese street fashion and picking up some unique pieces that you won’t find elsewhere.
Ningbo International Convention and Exhibition Center
Location: Yinzhou District, Ningbo
Type of Market: Exhibition and Trade Market
Open: Varies depending on events
The Ningbo International Convention and Exhibition Center is not a traditional market, but it hosts various trade shows, exhibitions, and fairs throughout the year. These events can range from furniture and home decor to fashion and electronics, offering a unique shopping experience for attendees.
We Recommend: Keeping an eye on the exhibition schedule and attending events that match your interests, as you can often find high-quality products and network with industry professionals.
