Shopping in China

   The first thing to say about shopping anywhere in China is that it does not have to be at all expensive.There are many modest items that can give great pleasure,such as cotton T-shirts,vests and NEIKU,which are "inner trousers"worn in winter for extra warmth.They come in a bright array of colours,shocking pink and electric blue being popular,and make excellent,inexpensive jogging suits and sports clothes.

    The choice of textiles and clothing in China is astonishing.However,the best often goes to export markets and is more easily sought out in the large emporiums run by the Chinese in HongKong.As for silks,cottons,cashmere and other woollen garments,the selections stocked in China's Friendship Stores are often the most appealing to the overseas shopper.

    Many travellers to China like to reture home with  a painting or a piece of porcelain.

     Minority handicrafts are becomeing widely available in big city stores as well as in the shops of the minority regions.You need not go to Yunnan'Stone Forest to buy a Sani cross-stitch satchel,since they can now be found in arts and crafts shops in Beijing.However,it is still true that the best of the minority handicrafts are available in their places of origin.Particular favourites are Tibetan rugs,Mongolian saddle rugs,jewellery and clothes from Yunnan,and boots,embroidered caps and daggers from Xinjiang.

    It is not only the minorities who have their specialities .The provinces and individual cities are often famous for one particular craft or art.Shanghai has a wonderful choice of carved wooden chopsticks inlaid with silver filigree;and Sichuan is famous for its bamboo and rattan goods.

   Ultimately,however,shopping in China is all about finding your own paricular treasure.