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Xichang's tourist souvenirs primarily feature Yi ethnic clothing and satellite base rocket models, sold in and around scenic spots like Lushan, Moonlight Town, and the Satellite Base Center. Local specialties like matsutake mushrooms, cordyceps, yak beef, Yanyuan dried apples, and Jianchang pressed duck are readily available in major supermarkets or local markets, with comparable prices. Xichang's larger supermarkets include Dada Shopping Plaza, Meitian Supermarket, and Walmart Supercenter, all ideal shopping destinations.
Pressed duck, made from Xichang's specialty duck liver, is exceptionally tender, not greasy, and boasts a vibrant flavor and aroma. It can be prepared in a variety of ways. Its rich, golden color and fragrant aroma are incredibly delicious. It can be purchased at the farmers' market or major supermarkets along Binhe Road. A whole vacuum-packed duck weighs about 1.5 kg and costs around 100 yuan.
Buckwheat is a specialty of Liangshan, grown in the unpolluted, cold mountainous areas above 2,000 meters above sea level. Rich in nutrients, it can clear heat and inflammation, eliminate toxins, lower blood lipids and blood sugar, and soften blood vessels. You can buy some to make tea; it's available in major supermarkets in the city.
Yanyuan is the largest apple production base in Southwest China. Yanyuan apples are known for their thin skin, tender flesh, sweetness, and crispness. They typically enter the market in July and are still available until November. They are relatively affordable locally, with some offering good quality fruit for as little as 0.6 to 1 yuan per jin (apple kilo).
When visiting Xichang, the "Space City," buying a beautiful spacecraft model is a great souvenir. When visiting the Satellite Launch Center, you can find spacecraft models for sale within the scenic area. If you like them, you can purchase them, though prices are relatively high, around 150 yuan each. You can also find them in downtown Xichang at the Satellite Launch Center Tourist Souvenir Shop (No. 1 Hangtian Road). They sell well-made spacecraft souvenirs in a wide variety of sizes and designs, with reliable quality and reasonable prices, ranging from around 120 to 200 yuan.
Silver jewelry is a staple of Yi fashion, and remains a cherished tradition. Yi silver jewelry encompasses a wide variety of styles, including rings, earrings, and bracelets, all meticulously crafted. Other silverware, such as tableware and knives, is beautifully engraved with intricate patterns. Near Datong Gate, there are several Yi goods stores. Prices are relatively affordable, but quality varies, so be selective and negotiate carefully.
This is China's largest market for South Red Agate, offering both high-priced fine goods and rough stones, as well as affordable, exquisite jewelry. Visitors can find their dream red agate pendant or beads here, while also learning how to identify agate. As a source of raw stones, agate here is relatively affordable, but don't be afraid to bargain.
Address: No. 68 Fengqingyuan North Road, Xichang City, Liangshan Prefecture, Sichuan Province
Transportation: Take bus No. 12, 13, or 4 and get off at the National Customs Park stop and walk 100 meters to the destination
Dada Shopping Plaza is Xichang's largest and most comprehensive shopping center. The ground floor houses a large shopping mall, offering a wide selection of cosmetics, clothing, and electronics. The basement level houses a large supermarket for basic shopping needs. There's also a Liangshan specialty counter, perfect for a complete shopping experience.
Address: Xichang Pedestrian Street, Chengnan Avenue, Xichang
Transportation: Take bus No. 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 20, 22, 25, No. 1 Inner Ring, No. 1 Outer Ring, No. 2 Inner Ring, No. 2 Outer Ring, get off at Yuecheng Square Station, walk 50 meters north into the pedestrian street.