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China Circulation Travel Service - CCTSBEIJING
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How hard should I bargain in China?

Ask Ask:

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How hard should I bargain in China?

Answer Answer:

For foreigners used to the sanctity of price tags, bargaining in China can be one of the hardest things to get used to. The short answer is an adamant yes, you do need to bargain in China. In all markets and small shops, most restaurants and many hotels foreigners will be offered a special high price that the seller hopes you will foolishly pay. Bargaining is an art in China and you're not being singled out as a foreigner; locals do it too.

Bargaining greenhorns will benefit from the help of friends or residents who know the market value of things (some translating can help, too), but anyone in the right mood can enjoy the sport of haggling and will be pleased with the cheap results. In general, prices are quoted 15-20% above acceptable, but discounts of up to 50-75% are not uncommon. Before you ask what something costs, think about what it is worth (convert to your home currency if it helps), what you are willing to pay and how hard you feel like bargaining. In some touristy places, vendors make a show of haggling with foreigners, but you should try to avoid being part of such a spectacle. Be polite and offer your price (you will often be handed a calculator for a silent exchange of offers and counteroffers). Usually walking away or pretending to walk away will result in a concession to your asking price.

Of course you don't need to bargain ever if you don't want to, as long as you don't mind getting ripped off.