Yiwu: Frequently Asked Questions

If you are looking for a city that is bustling with trade, then Yiwu could be an excellent destination for you. It is a city in the Zhejiang province of China, known as the “land of small commodities.” With its massive wholesale market, Yiwu is one of the most popular trading hubs in the world. In case you have some questions about Yiwu, here are the most frequently asked questions about this booming city.

What is Yiwu famous for?

Yiwu is well-known for its massive wholesale markets that offer a wide range of products to international buyers. It is said that you can find almost anything at the markets in Yiwu, such as jewelry, toys, clothing, and more. Besides the market, Yiwu is famous for its culture, traditional style buildings, and beautiful landscapes that attract tourists from all over the world.

How to reach Yiwu from Shanghai?

Yiwu has an international airport, which makes it easy for travelers to reach the city from anywhere in the world. If you are coming from Shanghai, the fastest and the most convenient way to reach Yiwu is by train. A high-speed train from Shanghai to Yiwu takes around 2 hours, and the ticket price is relatively low. There are also buses from Shanghai to Yiwu, but the journey takes around 4 – 5 hours.

What is the best time to visit Yiwu?

The best time to visit Yiwu is from March to November, as the weather during these months is mild and pleasant. It is also the peak season for trading in Yiwu, so you can find a vast range of products at the markets. However, if you are looking for lower prices and fewer crowds, you can consider visiting Yiwu during the off-season, from December to February.

Can I visit Yiwu for tourism?

Yes, you can visit Yiwu for tourism. Besides the wholesale market, you can explore the world’s largest small commodity market and visit the famous Yiwu International Trade City that covers an area of 5.5 million square meters. You can also explore the local museums, parks, and temples that offer a glimpse into the city’s culture.

Can I find a translator in Yiwu?

Yes, Yiwu has many professional translators who can speak multiple languages such as English, Spanish, and Arabic, among others. Most of them are available at the wholesale market, and you can hire them to avoid language barriers while negotiating with the suppliers.

What is the currency used in Yiwu?

Yiwu uses Chinese Yuan (CNY) as its official currency. However, you can exchange your currency at banks and exchange bureaus, which are readily available in the city.

Is Yiwu safe for travelers?

Yiwu is a relatively safe city for travelers. The locals are friendly, and the crime rate is low. However, it is recommended to take some necessary precautions such as keeping your valuables safe, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding crowded places at night.

Conclusion

Yiwu is a city that offers endless trading opportunities to buyers from all over the world. With its vast markets and excellent transportation facilities, Yiwu has become an essential destination for businesses. Moreover, the city is full of surprises and has many tourist attractions that can make your visit memorable. Don’t forget to hire an interpreter to avoid language barriers while conducting business in Yiwu.

Yiwu: An Insider’s Guide for Tourists

If you’re planning to visit Yiwu, China, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your trip. While many visitors go to the usual tourist attractions, there are some hidden gems that only locals know about. Here’s an insider’s guide to help you experience Yiwu beyond the typical tourist track.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

While Yiwu may be known for its wholesale markets, there are also plenty of unique sights and experiences to explore. Start your adventure with a visit to the Yiwu River, which is the city’s lifeline and has served as its economic foundation for centuries. The river offers a picturesque view, surrounded by traditional Chinese architecture, bridges, and mills, providing a serene environment where you can take a relaxing stroll.

Another must-see site is the Guanyin Mountain, also known as the “Hanging Garden of Yiwu.” This scenic mountain range offers breathtaking views of the surrounding city. It is an excellent place to hike, explore the numerous temples, and experience the local culture.

If you’re fortunate enough to visit during the winter season, don’t miss the Snow Mountain Ski Resort, where you can enjoy skiing, sledding, and other winter sports activities.

Dining Hotspots and Local Delicacies

Chinese cuisine is world-renowned, and Yiwu offers an exceptional range of local dishes that you should try during your stay. One of the city’s most popular specialties is Yiwu small-pot rice, a rich and savory rice dish prepared with assorted seafood, mushrooms, and vegetables, all cooked in small pots. For a healthy snack, try Tofu Jelly, also known as Dou Hua, which is a soft, milk-like substance made with tofu, soy milk, or rice milk. Yiwu is also known for its fresh seafood and its name sake ‘Yiwu Silver Fish’.

If you’re looking for an exciting drinking experience, the most famous local drink is Huangjiu, also known as Yellow Wine. It is a fermented rice wine that has been around for over 4,000 years and is an integral part of Chinese culture.

A fun fact about Yiwu that tourists may not know is that Yiwu exports small commodities from around the world. To cater to foreign guests’ taste buds, the place offers various international cuisines such as Turkish, Mexican, and Italian, and the street snacks are excellent, too.

Cultural Experiences and Events

Yiwu has a rich cultural heritage, and the locals are proud of their traditions, which they have preserved for centuries. One of Yiwu’s most famous traditional crafts is embroidery, known for its vibrant colors and intricate designs. You can visit the Yiwu Embroidery Museum to learn more about this art form and watch demonstrations by skilled artisans.

One of the most unique spectacle you would witness would be the Dragon Boat Festival which is celebrated in Yiwu. The festival, celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, pays tribute to the legendary Chinese poet Qu Yuan. The festival features a vibrant parade of colorful dragon boats, drummers, and musicians that offer a one-of-a-kind immersive experience for visitors.

Apart from cultural events, Yiwu has several themed parks such as the World’s Largest Wholesale Market as well as parks like Yiwu Park and Xiuhu Park.

Fascinating Local History

Yiwu’s rich history dates back to the Tang dynasty when it served as an important trading hub in the region. The city has been a center of commerce and trade for centuries, and its strategic location has established it as an important gateway for the Silk Road. Yiwu is also home to one of China’s most notable historical pages, the Southern Song Pagoda. The Pagoda is a masterpiece of ancient architecture, providing visitors with a fascinating glimpse into Yiwu’s past.

Another interesting piece of Yiwu’s history is about the entrepreneur who changed the city’s fortunes. The city was transformed in the 1980s when a local businessman named Wang Jianhua started the first small commodity market, which paved the way for the development of the world’s largest wholesale market in the region today.

Memorable Experiences That Go Beyond the Conventional

Find yourself a helmet and become part of Yiwu’s cycling experience. The Yiwu Cycling Track was built to encourage healthy living among residents of the city and for visitors seeking an outdoor activity. The well-manicured cycling track allows bikers to tour the city, gaining different perspectives of landmarks and attractions, from the Yiwu Women and Children’s Hospital, Yiwu International Expo Centre, to the scenic Xiaoyangshan Mountain.

Another exciting experience is visiting the Yiwu Xiuhu Lake Wetland Park. You can relax in the lush green environment and soak up the tranquil surroundings while allowing your mind to wander.

With Yiwu’s rich offerings, there’s still plenty to explore beyond the conventional ways to experience the city. Experience walking through an exhibition hall layered in the fantastic replicas of different tourist sites or engage in a game of bridge while learning the locals’ vernacular. Whatever your interests or hobbies are, Yiwu surely has something to offer you.

Visiting Yiwu offers a window to the unknown treasures in China. With its unique culture, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes, the city is one of China’s hidden gems. During your trip, explore its authenticity and allow yourself to discover the diverse experiences that it offers.