There are plenty of places to shop for electronics in Shanghai, but Metro City is certainly one of the most famous. Both the supply of goods and Metro City’s unique architecture contribute to its notoriety.  The building looks like a giant glass golf ball, and is infamous among the Shanghainese for this reason alone. Most importantly however, Metro City maintains an enormous selection of computers, software, phones, and mp3 players.

 

There are several smaller places around town selling electronics, but buyers beware: many of these locales sell JUNK.  Metro City is a safe bet. The staff at the booths and shops will help you buy the appropriate item. Usually at least one staff member speaks a little English. Save your receipt, as you can return items you are dissatisfied with.  Of course, be sure to bargain the price as well!  As with any bargaining in China, the initial price will start out higher than one should ever pay.  However, you will probably pay a little more at Metro City that you would at a less reputable place… the price of security.

 

As for the rest of the mall:  There are a few restaurants, including a great vegetarian place called L’Arbe de Provence, which always includes a few Buddhist monks dining there.  Starbucks, Haagen Dazs, Pizza Hut, and a large food court fill the basement level.  Besides the plethora of electronics stores, there aren’t any other notable shopping options at Metro City.