What to Buy: Traditional Chinese items including porcelain, scrolls, tea sets, silk products, jade carvings, and antiques. Local Cantonese products like preserved fruits, tea, and traditional medicine. Modern electronics and clothing at wholesale prices.
Shopping Areas: Shangxiajiu Street for mainstream shopping; Shamian Island for trendy boutiques and art galleries; Liurong district for antiques and traditional goods; Pearl River New City for luxury malls.
Bargaining Tips: Expected in markets and older shops, but not in modern malls. Start at 60-70% of asking price and negotiate upward. Smile, be respectful, and be prepared to walk away. Payment in cash gives additional negotiating leverage.
Payment Methods: WeChat Pay and Alipay are standard everywhere, even for small purchases. Foreign credit cards often not accepted; carry cash as backup. Mobile payment apps require Chinese bank accounts or special tourist options.