Yiwu is a city built around a market renowned for its diverse merchandise. It is often described as the world’s largest wholesale market, “an ocean of small merchandise, a paradise for shopping trips.” If you come to Yiwu, you must see the Yiwu International Merchandise Market. More than 400,000 kinds of small commodities are gathered here, celebrated worldwide. The city is also home to a number of international trading companies and logistics firms. To learn more about Yiwu, you can click here to read our “Yiwu City Guide.”
Yiwu city experiences a subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons.
Spring (March to May): Spring in Yiwu is mild and relatively dry. Temperatures gradually rise during this season, with average highs ranging from 16°C (61°F) to 24°C (75°F). It is recommended to have a light jacket or sweater handy, especially in the evenings.
Summer (June to August): Yiwu’s summers are hot and humid, with occasional rainfall. Average temperatures range from 28°C (82°F) to 35°C (95°F), with high humidity levels. It is advisable to wear light and breathable clothing, and staying hydrated is essential during this time.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings pleasant weather to Yiwu, characterized by mild temperatures and lower humidity. Average temperatures range from 17°C (63°F) to 26°C (79°F). It is a comfortable season for outdoor activities, and a light jacket or long sleeves may be suitable in the later months.
Winter (December to February): Yiwu’s winters are cool and occasionally chilly. Average temperatures range from 4°C (39°F) to 12°C (54°F). It is recommended to wear layered clothing, including a warm coat or jacket, particularly in the colder months. Snowfall is rare but possible.
Yiwu boasts a well-developed transportation system that offers convenient options for getting around the city and reaching other destinations.
Air: Yiwu Airport (YIW) serves both domestic and international flights, connecting Yiwu to major cities in China and some international destinations.
Train: Yiwu Railway Station is an important transportation hub. It offers high-speed train services, connecting Yiwu to various cities across China, including Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Hangzhou. The station is conveniently located in the city center.
Bus: Yiwu has an extensive bus network that covers the city and its surrounding areas. Public buses provide an affordable and convenient mode of transportation within the city. Additionally, long-distance buses operate from Yiwu to neighboring cities and provinces.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Yiwu and offer a convenient way to travel within the city. Taxis can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands. It’s advisable to have your destination written down in Chinese or use a translation app to communicate with the driver.
Metro: Yiwu Metro is currently under construction and is expected further to enhance the city’s transportation system in the future.
Bicycle: Yiwu has a bike-sharing system that allows residents and visitors to rent bicycles for short-distance travel. This eco-friendly option is a popular choice for exploring the city at a leisurely pace.
Car Rental: Car rental services are available in Yiwu for those who prefer to drive themselves. It’s important to have a valid driver’s license and be familiar with local traffic regulations.
Yiwu offers a variety of accommodation options to cater to the needs and preferences of visitors.
Hotels: Yiwu has a wide selection of hotels ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury establishments. Many hotels are located near the Yiwu International Trade Market, making them convenient for business travelers. These hotels typically offer comfortable rooms, various amenities, on-site restaurants, and additional facilities such as fitness centers, conference rooms, and business centers.
Serviced Apartments: Serviced apartments provide a more spacious and long-term accommodation option. They are equipped with kitchenettes or full kitchens, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. Serviced apartments often offer amenities such as laundry facilities, housekeeping services, and access to recreational facilities.
Guesthouses: Guesthouses in Yiwu are usually smaller, family-run establishments that offer a more intimate and homely experience. They may have fewer amenities compared to hotels but often provide a cozy and affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.
Hostels: Yiwu has a few hostels that cater to backpackers and budget travelers. These accommodations typically offer dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities, such as communal kitchens and common areas, providing an opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
Yiwu is known for its delectable culinary scene, offering a variety of local and regional dishes that showcase the flavors of Zhejiang Province and beyond.
Yiwu Noodles: Yiwu is famous for its unique style of noodles, known as “Yiwu Banmian.” These noodles are thin and tender, typically served in a savory broth with toppings like braised pork, mushrooms, and green vegetables. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a must-try dish in Yiwu.
Dongpo Pork: Dongpo Pork, named after the famous poet and gastronome Su Dongpo, is a traditional dish from Zhejiang Province that has gained popularity across China. It features a tender and succulent braised pork belly served in a rich, aromatic sauce.
Lianghuo Beef: Lianghuo Beef is a local specialty in Yiwu. It involves marinating thinly sliced beef in a mixture of spices and seasonings and then cooking it on a hot plate. The result is a flavorful and tender beef dish often enjoyed with dipping sauces.
Zhejiang Cuisine: As a part of Zhejiang Province, Yiwu offers a wide range of Zhejiang cuisine dishes. This regional cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients, delicate flavors, and meticulous cooking techniques. Some popular Zhejiang dishes include West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy (Xihu Vinegar Fish), Beggar’s Chicken (Jiaohua Ji), and Longjing Shrimp.
Street Snacks: Yiwu’s bustling streets are filled with street food stalls offering an array of tempting snacks. Don’t miss out on treats like stuffed buns (baozi), fried dumplings (jiaozi), stinky tofu (chou doufu), and various skewered meats and vegetables.
When exploring Yiwu’s culinary delights, consider visiting local eateries, night markets, and food streets to immerse yourself in the city’s gastronomic culture fully.
Yiwu boasts a mix of cultural, historical, and modern attractions.
Yiwu International Trade Market: A visit to Yiwu is incomplete without exploring the world’s largest wholesale market for small commodities. Spanning an expansive area, the Yiwu International Trade City is a shopper’s paradise, offering a vast array of products from jewelry and accessories to electronics and home goods.
Yiwu Museum: Located in the city center, the Yiwu Museum showcases the history and culture of Yiwu and its surrounding regions. The museum features exhibits on local traditions, artifacts, folk customs, and the city’s development over time.
Xiuhu Park: This picturesque park is known for its tranquil lake, beautiful gardens, and scenic walking paths. Visitors can enjoy boating on the lake, relax amidst nature, and admire the blooming flowers in springtime.
Meihu Exhibition Center: Meihu Exhibition Center is an architectural marvel designed in the shape of a butterfly. It hosts various exhibitions and events, showcasing art, crafts, and cultural displays.
Futian Wetland Park: A haven for nature lovers, Futian Wetland Park offers vast wetlands, lush greenery, and diverse wildlife. It’s a perfect place for leisurely walks, bird-watching, and enjoying the serene natural surroundings.
Hengdian World Studios: While not located directly in Yiwu, Hengdian World Studios is a popular day trip destination nearby. It is the largest film and television production base in China, featuring intricate sets that resemble ancient Chinese architecture. Visitors can explore the studios, watch live performances, and even dress up in traditional costumes.
These are just a few highlights of the attractions in Yiwu. The city also offers a range of local markets, parks, temples, and historical sites to explore.
Shopping in Yiwu is a delightful experience, especially for those seeking a vast selection of merchandise at competitive prices.
Yiwu International Trade City: Known as the world’s largest wholesale market for small commodities, the Yiwu International Trade City is a must-visit shopping destination. It is a sprawling complex comprising several interconnected buildings, each specializing in specific product categories. Here, you’ll find an extensive range of items, including jewelry, accessories, textiles, toys, electronics, stationery, and much more. The market is renowned for its immense variety and competitive prices, attracting buyers from around the world.
Huangyuan Market: Huangyuan Market is another prominent wholesale market in Yiwu, specializing in apparel, fabrics, and accessories. It offers a wide selection of clothing, shoes, bags, and fashion accessories at wholesale prices. The market is known for its trendy and affordable fashion items, making it a popular destination for those in search of the latest styles.
Night Markets: Yiwu comes alive at night with vibrant night markets that offer a unique shopping experience. These markets feature a lively atmosphere, colorful displays, and a wide range of products. You can find everything from clothing and accessories to gadgets, home goods, and local snacks. The night markets are a great place to explore, bargain, and immerse yourself in the local street culture.
Commercial Streets: Yiwu is dotted with bustling commercial streets where you can find an array of shops, boutiques, and specialty stores. Binwang Commercial Street and Chouzhou North Road are particularly popular shopping areas. These streets offer a mix of branded stores, local shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, providing a vibrant atmosphere for shopping enthusiasts.
Markets for Specialized Goods: Yiwu is known for its specialization in various product categories. For specific items, you can explore markets dedicated to specific products, such as the Yiwu Digital Marketplace for electronics, Yiwu Jewelry Market for accessories and jewelry, and the Yiwu Toy Market for toys and games. These markets provide a concentrated selection of specialized goods, making it convenient for buyers with specific requirements.
While exploring the shopping scene in Yiwu, don’t forget to practice your bargaining skills as it is common in markets and smaller shops. Also, keep in mind that some markets may have minimum order quantities or cater primarily to wholesale buyers. Nonetheless, Yiwu offers an incredible shopping experience with its vast variety, competitive prices, and bustling marketplaces.
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