· CN

Yiwu

Yiwu, Zhejiang, China

Welcome to Yiwu: Where the World Comes to Shop! Forget window shopping, Yiwu is where you experience retail on an epic scale. Located in the heart of Zhejiang province, China, Yiwu is home to the largest small-commodity…

#Marketplace#Wholesale#International Trade#Zhejiang Province#China

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Yiwu.

Top Hotels in Yiwu

Top Flights to Yiwu

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Yiwu.

Tours

Yiwu Museum

Discover the rich history and culture of Yiwu at this modern museum.

Xiuhu Park

Relax in a serene park with beautiful lakes and pavilions.

Shopping

Yiwu International Trade City

Explore the world's largest small commodity market, ideal for wholesale shopping.

Outdoor

Songpu Hill Outdoor Hiking

Enjoy a refreshing hike and explore the natural landscape of Yiwu.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Yiwu.

Currency
¥ | CNY | Chinese Yuan
Population
Not Available
Languages
Chinese, Chinese, English
Average weather
Yiwu
Jan
cold
8°1°
Feb
cold
10°3°
Mar
cloud
15°7°
Apr
cloud
21°12°
May
rain
26°17°
Jun
rain
30°22°
Jul
hot
34°26°
Aug
hot
33°25°
Sep
rain
29°21°
Oct
clear
23°15°
Nov
cloud
17°9°
Dec
cold
11°3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Yiwu.

What people love

Yiwu, located in Zhejiang province, China, is known as the world's largest small commodity wholesale market. Here are some pros of traveling to Yiwu:

  1. Wholesale Market: Yiwu is famous for its wholesale market, where you can find a wide variety of products at competitive prices. It's a great place for shopping enthusiasts and business owners looking to source products.

  2. Convenience: The city is well-developed with modern infrastructure, making it convenient for travelers. It has good transportation links, including an international airport and a high-speed train station.

  3. Cultural Experience: Yiwu has a rich cultural heritage, with historical sites such as the Yiwu Ancient Town and Xiuhu Park. Visitors can explore the traditional architecture, taste local cuisine, and experience traditional Chinese customs.

  4. International Trade: Yiwu hosts the China Yiwu International Commodities Fair, attracting traders and buyers from around the world. It's a great opportunity to network, learn about global trade trends, and establish business connections.

  5. Cost-Effective: Compared to major cities in China, Yiwu offers a more budget-friendly travel experience. Accommodation, food, and transportation are relatively affordable, making it an attractive destination for budget travelers.

Overall, traveling to Yiwu can be a unique and rewarding experience for those interested in shopping, business opportunities, and cultural exploration.

What to know

Yiwu, located in Zhejiang, China, is a popular destination known for its small commodities market and trade opportunities. However, like any destination, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling to Yiwu:

  1. Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken in Yiwu, so communication may be challenging for travelers who do not speak Mandarin or local dialects.

  2. Pollution: Like many industrial cities in China, Yiwu may have issues with air pollution, which could affect air quality and visibility.

  3. Crowds: Yiwu's markets are known to be bustling with people, especially during peak trading seasons. Navigating through crowded streets and markets can be overwhelming for some travelers.

  4. Food Safety: As with many destinations, travelers to Yiwu should be cautious about food safety and hygiene standards to avoid potential foodborne illnesses.

  5. Cultural Differences: Yiwu may have cultural norms and practices that differ from those in Western countries. It's important for travelers to be aware and respectful of local customs and traditions.

  6. Traffic Congestion: Yiwu is a busy city, and traffic congestion can be common, especially during peak hours. Getting around the city may take longer than expected due to traffic jams.

  7. Limited Tourist Attractions: While Yiwu is primarily known as a trading hub, it may not offer as many traditional tourist attractions compared to other Chinese cities. Travelers seeking historical sites or natural scenery may find Yiwu lacking in this aspect.

Overall, while Yiwu offers unique trade opportunities and experiences, travelers should be prepared for potential challenges such as language barriers, pollution, crowds, and cultural differences.

Yiwu is a county-level city located in the central part of Zhejiang Province, China. It is under the administration of the Jinhua prefecture-level city. Yiwu has a rich history and has become internationally renowned for its vibrant commodity market.

Historical Overview:

  1. Ancient History:

    • Yiwu's history dates back to the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC), when it was part of Wushang County. The area saw various administrative changes over the centuries.
    • During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), it became Huayang County and later Yiwu County in 624 AD.
  2. Song Dynasty:

    • During the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), Yiwu gained significance due to its strategic location and agricultural productivity. It was known for producing a variety of grains and fruit.
  3. Ming and Qing Dynasties:

    • In the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) dynasties, Yiwu's economy was primarily agricultural, but it was also known for producing wooden combs and other handcrafted goods.
  4. 20th Century:

    • In the early 20th century, Yiwu remained a relatively small and undeveloped area. However, with the advent of the People's Republic of China in 1949, Yiwu began to modernize slowly.
    • In 1982, the Yiwu China Commodity City market opened, marking a significant transformation in the local economy.
  5. Modern Era:

    • Yiwu has grown exponentially since the late 20th century, becoming one of the largest wholesale markets in the world. It is known for the Yiwu International Trade City, which is a hub for small commodity trade attracting buyers globally.
    • The market’s success has turned Yiwu into a vital center for trade, impacting the global supply chain significantly.

Significant Figures:

  • Chen Wangdao (1891-1977): A notable figure from Yiwu, he was the first Chinese translator of the Communist Manifesto, significantly impacting China's political landscape.

Important Landmarks:

  1. Yiwu International Trade City:

    • Known as the "largest small commodity wholesale market in the world," it attracts millions of merchants and buyers from around the globe.
  2. Huangyuan Market:

    • Another significant trading hub which complements the offerings of the International Trade City.
  3. Yiwu Museum:

    • Offers insights into the local culture, history, and development of Yiwu.
  4. Meihu Exhibition Centre:

    • A modern venue for various international trade fairs and exhibitions, further emphasizing Yiwu’s role as a global trade hub.

Yiwu is not only a center for commerce but also a city with a rich historical tapestry, reflecting its evolution from a modest agricultural town to a global trading powerhouse.