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What Are the Best Fake Markets in Chengdu?

What Are the Best Fake Markets in Chengdu?

Known for its spicy Sichuan food, panda sanctuaries, laid-back lifestyle, and deep cultural roots, Chengdu is one of China’s most beloved travel destinations. It is also a haven for luxury shopping with places such as IFS and Taikoo Li.

But if you don't want to spend thousands on designer items, there are places where you can get high-quality replicas and knockoffs. Let’s take a look at some of these places below.

 

Image: A photo of a busy street lined with shops and stalls on either side, with a crowd of people walking up and down the road, and others checking out various items in the shops.

Chunxi Road

Chunxi Road is Chengdu’s main shopping street, filled with big malls and brand-name stores. But behind the glitz, you can find shops selling copycat fashion and accessories. Many of these stores don’t display replica items openly. Instead, you might be invited in or shown a secret catalogue.

These places often have high-quality handbags, shoes, and watches. They are more expensive than street stall fakes, but the quality is much better.

Hehuachi Wholesale Market

Hehuachi is a massive wholesale market in Chengdu that’s known for cheap prices and bulk items. While it is not focused only on fake products, you will still find lookalike goods, especially if you explore the fashion and accessories sections.

From knock-off wallets and backpacks to imitation sportswear, there are lots of options here. It is a bit chaotic and can be crowded, but if you have time and patience, you will likely come across some great finds.

Luomashi Shopping Area

Luomashi is one of the busiest commercial zones in central Chengdu. It is packed with shopping centres, smaller stores, and underground malls. Some of these underground shopping areas have stalls that sell replica sneakers, designer-inspired bags, and counterfeit accessories. The prices vary depending on the quality, from cheap knockoffs to “mirror copies” that look almost real.

Jinli Ancient Street

While Jinli is more famous for traditional snacks and souvenirs, some shops, especially the less visible ones tucked into side alleys, also sell imitation antiques, traditional silk, and branded trinkets that aren’t always authentic. Some antiques and silver items may be marketed as real but are reproductions. Always bargain and be cautious.

Image: A crowded street lined with buildings on either side, each with signage in Chinese above the doors, on the walls, or at the entrances, and lots of people walking through.

New Century Global Centre

This is the largest building in the world by floor area. It is filled with shops, restaurants, and even a water park. While many of the stores are legitimate, some boutiques and pop-up stalls, especially during seasonal events, have been known to carry counterfeit fashion accessories, shoes, and even cosmetics. Most of the items here are high quality, and you can always try to bargain for better prices.

Things to Keep in Mind 

Here are some things to keep in mind while hunting for replica goods in Chengdu:

  • You won’t always see fakes on display, so don’t be afraid to ask. Be friendly and confident, and they might even take you to a back room.
  • Some places, like Jinli Ancient Street, are not your typical fake market, but are definitely worth a visit if you are looking for knockoff traditional goods and high-end crafts.
  • Ask vendors if they have "factory versions" or "extra stock", they will often know what you mean. Terms like these simply mean high-quality fakes or replicas that aren't on display. Most vendors have a “premium version” that they don't always display, so it might help to be specific and ask. It also shows them that you know what you are looking for.
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