Qingping Traditional Medicine Market
A bustling marketplace in Guangzhou, China, renowned for its vast array of dried seafood, traditional herbs, and medicinal ingredients.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest selection
Qingping Traditional Medicine Market
Best Time
Freshest selection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling marketplace in Guangzhou, China, renowned for its vast array of dried seafood, traditional herbs, and medicinal ingredients.
"An amazing market where you can buy anything, a true Atlas Obscura gem for the curious traveler. "
🛍️ Bring Reusable Bags
You'll be tempted to buy a lot! Pack extra bags for your treasures.
👃 Embrace the Aromas
The market has strong, unique scents. It's part of the experience!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dried Seafood & Delicacies
Discover an incredible variety of dried seafood, from shrimp to scallops, perfect for culinary adventures.
Herbal Teas & Tonics
Explore shelves stocked with countless dried herbs and flowers for teas and traditional remedies.
Peach Gum & Edible Flowers
Find unique ingredients like peach gum and a wide selection of edible flowers for cooking and wellness.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Market
Beyond the Souvenirs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛍️ Bring Reusable Bags
You'll be tempted to buy a lot! Pack extra bags for your treasures.
👃 Embrace the Aromas
The market has strong, unique scents. It's part of the experience!
💬 Practice Basic Phrases
While some vendors speak English, knowing a few Mandarin phrases helps.
🏨 Stay Nearby
Consider hotels like Victory or Holiday Inn for easy access to your purchases.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ Bring Reusable Bags
You'll be tempted to buy a lot! Pack extra bags for your treasures.
👃 Embrace the Aromas
The market has strong, unique scents. It's part of the experience!
💬 Practice Basic Phrases
While some vendors speak English, knowing a few Mandarin phrases helps.
🏨 Stay Nearby
Consider hotels like Victory or Holiday Inn for easy access to your purchases.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Qingping Market for its incredible variety of dried seafood, herbs, and teas, calling it an 'amazing market' and an 'excellent little Atlas Obscura spot.' However, some caution that the strong smells and nature of certain products might not be for everyone.
"Highly recommended for dried seafood, dried flower tea, peach gum and other Chinese herbal. Great variety to choose from. You may opt to stay at nearby Victory hotel, Holiday Inn Hotel so you can buy and put back at the hotel, then shop again 😂😂"
Elly K
"It's a really amazing market where you can buy anything. However if you have a weak stomach or you are an animal lover, this is not your market"
urs Muller
"Very Good place"
viju asodariya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is located in Guangzhou, China. Public transport, like the metro, is a convenient way to reach it. Many visitors use ride-sharing apps as well.
Yes, it's well-connected by Guangzhou's metro system. Check local transit maps for the closest station to your location.
The market is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking through narrow aisles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Qingping Market is generally free to enter. You only pay for the goods you wish to purchase.
The market typically opens early in the morning and closes in the evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours for the full experience.
Haggling is common practice in many Chinese markets. Be polite and reasonable when negotiating prices for your purchases.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find an incredible array of dried seafood, traditional Chinese herbs, medicinal ingredients, teas, and even some exotic items. It's a treasure trove for unique finds.
While there are many herbal and tea options, the market is heavily focused on dried seafood and animal products, so it might be challenging for strict vegetarians.
Yes, some TikTok creators have documented visiting TCM practitioners within or near the market for consultations and herbal remedies. +1
Be prepared for strong smells and a bustling atmosphere. Some visitors mention it's not for those with weak stomachs or who are sensitive to animal products.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the market primarily sells raw ingredients, you might find small eateries or stalls offering local snacks and simple meals nearby.
Sampling is not always common, especially for dried goods. It's best to ask politely, but be prepared to buy based on description and appearance.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of vendors and their products. Ask permission before taking close-up shots of individuals.
The vibrant displays of dried seafood, colorful herbs, and bustling market scenes offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the more accessible items like dried fruits, nuts, and colorful herbal teas. It can be a great opportunity to teach children about different cultures and traditional practices. Consider a shorter visit focused on specific items to avoid sensory overload.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bring your own reusable bags to save on packaging costs and to carry your finds. Consider purchasing dried herbs or teas as affordable and authentic gifts. Staying in nearby budget-friendly hotels can also help keep overall travel costs down.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Beyond just purchasing ingredients, some visitors have sought out TCM practitioners who operate within or near the market. These consultations can offer personalized advice and prescriptions for various health concerns, blending traditional wisdom with modern understanding. It's an opportunity to experience TCM firsthand, from diagnosis to treatment.
When exploring the TCM section, be prepared for a sensory experience. The air is thick with the distinct aromas of various herbs. It's advisable to do some research beforehand if you have specific health goals, or be open to learning from the experts on-site.
The Culinary Treasures of Qingping Market
Beyond seafood, you'll discover other culinary gems like peach gum, a gelatinous substance harvested from peach trees, often used in sweet soups and desserts for its supposed health benefits. Edible flowers, dried mushrooms, and various spices also line the shelves, offering a glimpse into the diverse flavors of Chinese cooking.
When shopping for culinary items, don't hesitate to ask vendors about preparation methods or suggested uses. Many are proud of their products and happy to share their knowledge. Bringing reusable bags is highly recommended, as you're likely to leave with a bounty of delicious finds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit