Culture market

Jinan, China

Ask a cab to drop you off at 'Wen hwa shr chang'. The actual market is a pedestrian only area behind a row of houses, but you should be able to find it by just following the crowds. On sale are all kinds of items, pottery, wooden sculptures, painting, calligraphy supplies, even old coins, notes and stamps. During the week it's usually pretty quiet, so come during weekends, when much more is on offer. This is a great place to find small souvenirs. Some of it is said to be real antique, but don't be fooled in spending top dollar. Unless you bring, or consider yourself, an expert. When you get tired of shopping head to nearby Hero mountain for a change of scenery.