800 stalls along 350 meters, revenue of 13 million yuan, free haircuts and an open stage for everyone

This is according to a report from the Santing Road night market in Yiwu City, Zhejiang Province.

Yiwu is known as the world’s capital of small commodities. And its Santing Road night market has become a must-visit destination after dark.

The market stretches for about 350 meters and hosts more than 800 stalls. They are divided into two main sections: daily necessities and restaurants.

This is Yiwu’s oldest night market. You can find everything here — from fashionable seasonal T-shirts to delicate hair clips and necklaces, as well as dishes from all over China and around the world.

During the five-day May holiday this year, more than 350,000 people visited the Santing Road night market. Sales revenue approached 13 million yuan — about 1.8 million US dollars. Both figures hit record highs.

One foreign visitor shared his impressions: “Actually, it’s really nice to be here. Seeing everyone shopping, everyone is very happy, enjoying their purchases. So it’s really great.”

A visitor surnamed Lai noted: “Other night markets usually only have food stalls or entertainment. But this night market has everything — from food to clothing. Such a huge selection.”

The Santing Road night market is not just about food and shopping. Various events are held here regularly. The market management, in collaboration with local residents, invites anyone to perform on stage.

The night market also offers six types of “happy services”, including free haircuts and book exchanges. These allow visitors to get a “special bonus” while strolling and snacking.

Jiang Wei, Deputy General Manager of Yiwu Market Development Group, said: “We make sure that unforgettable events and themed seasonal promotions are held on our market every month. We are constantly innovating consumption scenarios. At the same time, we are introducing consumer-oriented measures such as prize draws and coupons. So that everyone can truly feel the unique charm of Yiwu’s night market — its international flavor and vibrant local atmosphere.”

The city that the world knows as the “factory of Christmas decorations and fridge magnets” turns out to know how to do more than just manufacture. It also knows how to amaze. 350,000 people in five days chose neither a shopping mall nor an amusement park. They chose a street with stalls where you can eat, buy a T-shirt, exchange books, get a free haircut and even step onto a stage. China’s night market is no longer just a place to shop. It is a show. Where everyone is a seller, a spectator and the main character. And judging by the records, the audience loves it.