Know Before You Pay
Real Prices vs Tourist Prices in China
Don't get overcharged! Compare what locals pay vs. tourist trap prices for everyday items. We show you specific brands with real price ranges so you know exactly what's fair.
Bottled Water
The most common bottled water brands you'll find everywhere in China. Essential for staying hydrated while sightseeing.
Nongfu Spring
农夫山泉550ml
¥2
$0.28
Convenience store / Supermarket
¥5-10
$0.70-1.40
Scenic area / Airport
Available at every convenience store, supermarket, and vending machine
Pro Tip: Most popular water brand in China - if it costs more than ¥3, you're being overcharged
C'estbon
怡宝555ml
¥2
$0.28
Convenience store / Supermarket
¥5-10
$0.70-1.40
Scenic area / Airport
Widely available at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and all major supermarkets
Ganten
百岁山570ml
¥3
$0.42
Convenience store / Supermarket
¥8-15
$1.12-2.10
Scenic area / Airport
Found at most convenience stores and supermarkets
Pro Tip: Considered premium domestic water - slightly higher price is normal
Wahaha
娃哈哈596ml
¥2
$0.28
Convenience store / Supermarket
¥5-10
$0.70-1.40
Scenic area / Airport
One of the oldest brands - available everywhere, especially in smaller shops
Instant Noodles
Popular instant noodle brands for a quick, cheap meal. Perfect for late-night snacks or when you need something familiar.
Master Kong
康师傅红烧牛肉面 (桶装)
¥5-6
$0.70-0.84
Convenience store / Supermarket
¥10-15
$1.40-2.10
Scenic area / Airport
Available at all convenience stores with hot water service
Pro Tip: The most iconic instant noodle in China - ask for hot water at the store (开水)
Master Kong
康师傅红烧牛肉面 (袋装)
¥3-4
$0.42-0.56
Convenience store / Supermarket
¥8-10
$1.12-1.40
Scenic area / Airport
Supermarkets and convenience stores. Cheaper than bowl version
Uni-President
统一老坛酸菜牛肉面 (桶装)
¥5-6
$0.70-0.84
Convenience store / Supermarket
¥10-15
$1.40-2.10
Scenic area / Airport
All convenience stores and supermarkets
Uni-President
统一老坛酸菜牛肉面 (袋装)
¥3-4
$0.42-0.56
Convenience store / Supermarket
¥8-10
$1.12-1.40
Scenic area / Airport
Supermarkets, usually sold in multi-packs for better value
Baixiang
白象大骨面 (袋装)
¥2-3
$0.28-0.42
Convenience store / Supermarket
¥6-8
$0.84-1.12
Scenic area / Airport
Supermarkets and some convenience stores
Pro Tip: Budget-friendly option popular among students - great taste, low price
Shop at Convenience Stores
7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, and local chains like Meiyijia always have fixed, fair prices. No bargaining needed.
Tourist Area Markup
Prices inside scenic areas, train stations, and airports are typically 2-5x normal prices. Stock up before entering.
Best Supermarket Chains
Walmart, Carrefour, RT-Mart, and Yonghui are reliable for fair prices. Great for stocking up on snacks and drinks.
Quick Price Check
If a 550ml water bottle costs more than ¥5, or instant noodles more than ¥8, you're likely paying tourist prices.