Malls and department stores

Shanghai has exceptional retail infrastructure and, crucially, fixed prices. For anything beyond small souvenirs this removes the entire negotiating problem.

The underrated part is the basement food floor, which almost every large mall has and which contains genuinely good regional eating at ordinary prices.

Why use them

Fixed prices, real receipts, functioning returns, air conditioning, toilets, and no risk of counterfeit goods.

For clothes and electronics this is the only sensible option.

The basement floor

Level B1 in Shanghai malls usually holds a supermarket and a food hall with regional stalls. Quality is consistent and prices are low.

It is also a good place to try things you would not order blind in a restaurant.

Sales tax refunds

Foreign visitors can claim VAT refunds on purchases over a threshold made at participating stores, collected at departure. Ask for the refund form at purchase and keep receipts.

Allow extra time at the airport to process it.

Verdict

Less atmospheric than markets and far less hassle. Use them for anything over ¥300.