Songxianqiao Antique Market - a group of people walking down a street next to tall buildings
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Songxianqiao Antique Market

4.2
·5 reviews·Cheng Du Shi, China

Discover unique art, calligraphy supplies, and souvenirs at this bustling Chengdu market. Haggle for treasures and soak in the vibrant atmosphere!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Bustling atmosphere

CrowdHigh
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Songxianqiao Antique Market - a group of people walking down a street next to tall buildings

Songxianqiao Antique Market

Best Time

Weekends

Bustling atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover unique art, calligraphy supplies, and souvenirs at this bustling Chengdu market. Haggle for treasures and soak in the vibrant atmosphere!

4.2
(5 reviews)

"One of the most interesting shopping areas of Chengdu. Don't miss the second floor shops."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Haggle with a Smile

Negotiate prices politely; expect higher initial quotes as a tourist. :moneywithwings:

🧐 Authenticity Awareness

Many items are reproductions. Focus on souvenirs and art, not genuine antiques. :magnifyingglasstilted_left:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Calligraphy & Art Supplies

Calligraphy & Art Supplies

Specialist shops on the second floor

Discover a treasure trove of calligraphy brushes, ink, and paper for aspiring artists and culture enthusiasts.

Reddit
Wood Carvings & Bronze Art

Wood Carvings & Bronze Art

Various stalls throughout the market

Find intricate wood carvings and unique bronze art pieces, perfect for bringing a piece of local craftsmanship home.

Reddit
Unique Souvenir Hunting

Unique Souvenir Hunting

Throughout the market

Explore a vast array of collectibles and souvenirs, from beaded bracelets to cultural trinkets.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Mastering the Art of Negotiation

Be prepared to haggle! Prices are often inflated for tourists. Approach negotiations with a friendly attitude and a smile. Don't be afraid to walk away if the price isn't right; you might get a better offer later. Reddit

Authenticity Check: What's Real?

Many items are reproductions, not genuine antiques. While great for souvenirs, manage expectations. Look for unique artworks and cultural pieces rather than expecting historical artifacts. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Bustling atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, better negotiation
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Go for a real treasure hunt with me in an Antique Market in Xi’an! If you are into Chinese culture or history, do not miss this out! #antique #treasure #chinatravel #chineseculture
@vin93806
6.9K likes • 99.3K views

🎯 Haggle with a Smile

Negotiate prices politely; expect higher initial quotes as a tourist. Reddit :moneywithwings:

🧐 Authenticity Awareness

Many items are reproductions. Focus on souvenirs and art, not genuine antiques. Reddit :magnifyingglasstilted_left:

An ocean of beaded bracelets, a paradise for collectibles, no one leaves here empty-handed! The Panjiayuan Antique Market in Beijing is truly a joy to explore! #WanderBeijing #AntiqueMarket
@discoverbeijing
4.2K likes • 102.6K views
reddit.com

Looking for Art Supplies ?

🛍️ Explore the Second Floor

Don't miss the specialist shops upstairs for art supplies and unique finds. Reddit :shopping_bags:

🤝 Friendly Service

Enthusiastic vendors offer sincere service for your purchases. Reddit :handshake:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Haggle with a Smile

Negotiate prices politely; expect higher initial quotes as a tourist. Reddit :moneywithwings:

🧐 Authenticity Awareness

Many items are reproductions. Focus on souvenirs and art, not genuine antiques. Reddit :magnifyingglasstilted_left:

🛍️ Explore the Second Floor

Don't miss the specialist shops upstairs for art supplies and unique finds. Reddit :shopping_bags:

🤝 Friendly Service

Enthusiastic vendors offer sincere service for your purchases. Reddit :handshake:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(5 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Songxianqiao Antique Market an interesting place for unique souvenirs and art, particularly praising the selection of calligraphy supplies and wood carvings. While many items are reproductions, the opportunity to negotiate prices adds to the experience. Some caution that tourists may face higher initial prices.

"One of the most interesting shopping areas of Chengdu. Don't miss the second floor shops. Expect to negotiate your final price, and as a tourist expect to have higher initial prices quoted to you!"

Dale Reed

"With enthusiasm and sincere service, we purchased some wood carvings and bronze art.
I recommend them, there are many interesting artworks in the store.
Greetings"

YUQI CAI

"It is located next to the main art city / antique place, it houses a few great items. Go to the main area a few feet away."

J. F.

What People Like

Unique art and souvenirs
Calligraphy supplies
Negotiation opportunities

What People Dislike

Many reproductions
Higher tourist prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The market is conveniently located next to the main art city in Chengdu. Public transport, such as buses and metro, are readily available to reach the area. Taxis are also a common option for travelers. Reddit

Yes, it's situated adjacent to the main art city, making it a well-known landmark for shoppers and art enthusiasts. Reddit

Many visitors find public transport efficient. Check local transit apps for the most direct routes from your location in Chengdu. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Songxianqiao Antique Market is generally free. You only pay for the items you wish to purchase. Reddit

The market typically operates daily, but hours can vary. It's best to visit during daylight hours, especially on weekends when it's most active. Reddit

There is no admission fee to browse the Songxianqiao Antique Market. Enjoy exploring the stalls without any entry cost. Reddit

Yes, the market is usually open on public holidays, often with increased crowds. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find a wide range of items including calligraphy supplies, wood carvings, bronze art, beaded bracelets, and various cultural souvenirs. TikTokReddit

It's important to note that many items are reproductions. While you can find unique artworks and souvenirs, genuine antiques are rare. Reddit

Absolutely! Haggling is expected. Approach vendors with a friendly attitude and be prepared to negotiate for the best price. Reddit

If you're looking for genuine antiques, do your research beforehand. For souvenirs, focus on items you find appealing and well-crafted. Reddit

Don't miss the second-floor shops, which often house specialist vendors selling art supplies like brushes and paper. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the market primarily focuses on antiques and crafts, nearby areas and the adjacent art city often have food stalls and restaurants offering local snacks and meals. Reddit

Yes, the area surrounding the Songxianqiao Antique Market is known for its culinary scene. You can easily find restaurants serving authentic Sichuan dishes. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed, but it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-up shots of their merchandise, especially if you're not purchasing. TikTok

Capture the vibrant displays of art, the intricate details of wood carvings, and the bustling atmosphere of shoppers negotiating prices. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Songxianqiao Antique Market can be an engaging outing for families, offering a glimpse into local crafts and culture. While genuine antiques might not be the focus, the market is rich with colorful souvenirs, beaded bracelets, and interesting trinkets that can capture children's attention. TikTok The second-floor shops with calligraphy supplies can also be a fun discovery, perhaps inspiring a creative activity later. Reddit

Keep in mind that the market can get crowded, especially on weekends. It's advisable to keep a close eye on children and perhaps focus on specific stalls that might be more visually stimulating. The experience is more about the exploration and discovery than finding specific items, making it a good option for a casual family outing. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Songxianqiao Antique Market offers plenty of opportunities for affordable finds. The key is smart negotiation. Reddit Don't be afraid to haggle politely for prices, as initial quotes are often higher. Focus on souvenirs and reproductions rather than seeking expensive antiques, as these will be more budget-friendly. Reddit

Exploring the market itself is free, making it a great way to spend time without spending much money. Look for smaller items like beaded bracelets or unique wood carvings that can serve as memorable keepsakes without breaking the bank. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Market: Tips for a Successful Visit

Songxianqiao Antique Market is a vibrant hub for collectors and souvenir hunters. While the allure of genuine antiques might draw some visitors, it's crucial to understand that many items are reproductions. This doesn't diminish the market's charm; rather, it shifts the focus towards unique artworks, cultural crafts, and memorable souvenirs. Reddit The market is particularly known for its specialist shops, especially on the second floor, offering a fantastic selection of calligraphy brushes, ink, and paper – a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Reddit

When exploring, remember that negotiation is key. Vendors often quote higher prices to tourists, so approach the bargaining process with a friendly demeanor and a willingness to discuss. Don't be discouraged if your initial offer isn't accepted; a polite counter-offer or even walking away can sometimes lead to a better deal. Reddit Look for intricate wood carvings and distinctive bronze art that showcase local craftsmanship. These pieces, while not necessarily ancient, can be beautiful and meaningful additions to your collection. Reddit

For those seeking a true treasure hunt, patience and a keen eye are your best tools. Engage with the vendors, learn about their crafts, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Even if you don't find a priceless artifact, you're sure to leave with a unique souvenir and a memorable cultural experience. TikTok+1

The Art of Bargaining: Getting the Best Deals

Navigating prices at Songxianqiao Antique Market requires a bit of strategy, especially for tourists. The general consensus from visitors is that initial prices are often inflated. Reddit Therefore, mastering the art of negotiation is essential to securing a good deal. Approach vendors with a smile and a friendly attitude; a positive interaction can go a long way. Reddit

When you find an item you like, don't immediately accept the first price offered. Make a reasonable counter-offer, typically starting lower than your maximum willingness to pay. It's common for vendors to go back and forth a few times. If you feel the price is still too high, it's perfectly acceptable to politely thank them and move on. Sometimes, this can prompt a better offer from the vendor. Reddit Remember, the goal is to find a price that feels fair to both you and the seller, ensuring a positive transaction. Reddit

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