Many international visitors search for “Shanghai Fake Market” when looking for affordable shopping experiences in Shanghai.
While Shanghai’s famous old counterfeit markets have disappeared, AP Plaza (Yatai Xinyang Fashion & Gift Market) near the Shanghai Science & Technology Museum remains one of the places most frequently mentioned by travelers looking for budget shopping, souvenirs, and a unique local market experience.
This guide covers where to find it, what you can expect, typical prices, bargaining tips, and what to do nearby.
Where Is Shanghai Fake Market?
AP Plaza (Yatai Xinyang Fashion & Gift Market)亚太盛汇购物广场
📍Location:
Inside Metro Line 2, Shanghai Science & Technology Museum, 2000 Shiji Da Dao, near Yingchun Lu, Pudong District
🚇메트로:
Shanghai Science & Technology Museum Station, Exit 1
⏰ Opening hours:
Usually around 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (hours may vary)
AP Plaza is located underground inside the Pudong area, making it easy to combine with other Shanghai attractions.
What Can You Buy at Shanghai Fake Market?
AP Plaza is mainly known for affordable fashion items and designer-style products rather than traditional Chinese souvenirs.
The word “fake” usually refers to counterfeit or replica products that imitate famous international brands, especially luxury brands.
Common items include:
- Luxury-style watches — one of the most popular products among foreign visitors
- Designer-inspired bags and accessories — handbags, wallets, belts, sunglasses, and leather goods
- Clothing and shoes — jackets, T-shirts, sneakers, and casual fashion items
- Small gifts and travel items — phone accessories, souvenirs, and inexpensive daily products
Product quality varies significantly between shops. Some items are simple fashion copies, while others may look closer to the original design. Visitors usually compare different stores before buying.
How Much Does Shopping Cost?
Prices depend heavily on product quality and negotiation.
Approximate tourist price ranges:
| Item | Typical Price | |
| Small souvenirs | $2–7 | |
| T-shirts & casual clothing | $7–30 | |
| Bags & accessories | $15–70 | |
| Watches | $15–120+ | |
| Shoes | $15–70 | |
Prices are usually not fixed, and the first price offered is often not the final price. Visitors can politely ask whether there is a better price.
Why Do Many Foreign Travelers Visit AP Plaza?
AP Plaza became popular among international visitors because it offers:
1. A Unique Shopping Experience
For many first-time visitors, walking through a crowded underground market and negotiating prices feels very different from shopping in their home countries.
2. Affordable Prices
Travelers can find inexpensive fashion items and gifts without spending much.
3. Convenient Location
Unlike some markets that require a long journey, AP Plaza is close to central Shanghai and easy to combine with sightseeing.
What Can You Do Near Shanghai Fake Market?
Shanghai Science & Technology Museum
Walking distance: about 5 minutes
- Families
- Interactive exhibitions
- Indoor activities on rainy days
Century Park
About 1.5 km away, around 20 minutes walking or 5 minutes by taxi
- Walking
- Relaxing after shopping
- Lakes and green spaces
Lujiazui Skyline Area
Around 2 metro stops away, about 10–15 minutes
- Shanghai Tower
- Shanghai World Financial Center
- Oriental Pearl Tower
Recommended Half-Day Route around Shanghai Fake Market
Shanghai Science & Technology Museum → AP Plaza → Century Park → Lujiazui Skyline → The Bund Night View
Tips Before Visiting Shanghai Fake Market
- Prepare Alipay or WeChat Pay (mobile payment is widely used in Shanghai)
- Compare prices between different shops before buying
- If you are interested in a product, you can politely negotiate instead of accepting the first price
- Check the quality, materials, and details carefully before paying
- Keep in mind that counterfeit products may not be allowed in some countries depending on local customs regulations
Is Shanghai Fake Market Worth Visiting?
AP Plaza is not a traditional sightseeing attraction, but it offers something different from Shanghai’s famous landmarks.
It may be worth visiting if you want to:
- Experience Shanghai’s bargain shopping culture
- Try negotiating with local sellers
- Find inexpensive fashion items and gifts
- Explore a less tourist-polished side of the city
If your main interest is history, architecture, food, and local culture, Shanghai also offers many other unique experiences.
Other Shopping Markets in Shanghai
Besides AP Plaza, some visitors also mention:
- Qipu Road Clothing Market — known for affordable clothing and wholesale-style shopping
- Hongqiao Pearl Market — popular for pearls, jewelry, souvenirs, and gifts
More Shanghai Experiences Beyond AP Plaza
AP Plaza is only one small part of Shanghai’s diverse travel experiences. Beyond shopping, the city offers historic neighborhoods, hidden local spots, traditional culture, and modern city views that are often missed by first-time visitors.
👉Explore more unique places and local experiences in Shanghai.
Plan Your Shanghai Trip Your Way
Whether you want to visit AP Plaza, explore local markets, discover Shanghai’s history, or combine famous attractions with authentic experiences, we can help create a private itinerary based on your interests and travel style.
Our Shanghai private tours include local guides, flexible schedules, and personalized recommendations — so you can experience Shanghai at your own pace.
