Sunday, November 05, 2006

Silk Market


Hangzhou's most famous commodity. The silk market runs for a city block and includes both the raw material and clothing. Best to have a good look before deciding on a garment or fabric. Bargain hard.

"The silk market sells anything from ties to scarves to fabric. If it's made of silk, you'll find it here! Hangzhou is famous for its silk, and walking on the silk market, you understand why. There are hundreds of shops selling silk in all forms available. You will find traditional silk farbrics with Chinese motif patterns, as well as trendy scarves and ties. These shops are outlets for local companies that also export their products. Be prepared to haggle, but generally my experience is that the shop-keepers do not start with excessively high prices, though foreigners who don't speak the language can expect to pay more than Chinese. Shopkeepers also know their limits, and will not sell to any price, as may happen in other markets. So if it is a question of a few yuan, don't let that keep you from getting something you find really nice. Compared to Europe, the price level here is very low, as the cost of middle men and logistics are cut out. "

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