When it comes to shopping in Macau, most people instinctively think of the luxurious shopping malls on the Cotai Strip. However, the Macau Peninsula actually offers more down-to-earth shopping fun, and there's a key advantage that is often overlooked—Macau itself has no tariff system, meaning all goods are theoretically already at "duty-free prices". This is completely different from Japan, where you need to spend at least 5,000 yen to qualify for a tax refund.
The shopping environment on the Macau Peninsula focuses on daily necessities and locally特色 products, with prices generally more affordable than on the Cotai Strip. Additionally, in recent years, many cultural and creative lifestyle shops have opened in the New Port area, making the shopping experience richer than expected. If you're tired of the crowds at the resorts and want to uncover some local gems, this guide is precisely for you.
【Special Highlights】
Tax-free shopping on the Macau Peninsula has several unique advantages: First, the absence of tariffs means perfumes and cosmetics are naturally expensive—you don't need to calculate tax refunds like you would at Japanese airports. Second, prices at local drugstores are surprisingly affordable, especially for Japanese drugstore skincare products, sometimes even cheaper than in Hong Kong. Third, Macau Pass (Macau's local electronic payment) has high penetration, and many small shops accept it, making shopping very convenient. Fourth, and most importantly—many shops on the Macau Peninsula support MPay and Alipay, and after exchange rate calculations, these often work out better than paying with Hong Kong cash.
It's worth noting that after the "documents not required" clearance policy was implemented at the Macau Lotus Port at the end of 2024, travel back and forth has become more convenient for mainland visitors, which has also boosted retail foot traffic in the New Port area. According to industry observations, during holidays, customer flow at New Port shops increases by about 20% compared to weekdays. To avoid the crowds, it's recommended to visit on weekday evenings.
【Recommended Places】
1. Lai Lai Supermarket (New Port Branch)
Located near Eduardo Marques Square in the New Port area, this is one of the largest supermarket chains in Macau. Lai Lai's biggest advantage is its comprehensive product range—from Japanese imported snacks to local condiments, prices are at least 20% more affordable than convenience stores on the Cotai Strip. The shop has a cosmetics and skincare section, with Japanese drugstore skincare products often on promotion, and bundle sets are cheaper than buying individually. Open until 11 pm, ideal for restocking on your final day. Special recommendation: Japanese eye drops are often on special offer, priced at approximately MOP$35-80, more than half the price of Hong Kong Airport.
2. Yohann Market (Iao Han Market)
Located in the northern district of Macau, this is a traditional market, but the second floor actually has clothing and daily essentials stalls. Prices here are among the cheapest on the Macau Peninsula—socks, underwear, accessories and other small items are priced very reasonably, and it's worth spending time bargaining. What makes Yohann Market special is its "street atmosphere"—the stall owners' directness and warmth is an experience you won't find in five-star shopping centres. It's recommended to go in the morning when all stalls are open. Note: Cash is primarily accepted; Macau Pass penetration is not high.
3. Souvenir Shops Around the Ruins of St. Paul's
Although there are many tourists, several historic bakeries are hidden in the side streets leading down from the St. Paul's slopes. Among the more famous ones is Kou Kei, where almond biscuits, dried meat jerky, and paper-wrapped tea are classic souvenirs, with prices more affordable than chain souvenir shops. Kou Kei's almond biscuits are always in high demand, with queues particularly long during holidays—it's recommended to visit on weekday mornings. Most recommended are their tangerine peel plums, with a balanced sweet-sour taste, individually packaged and suitable for gifting or personal enjoyment, approximately MOP$45 per portion.
4. Mei Lin New China Pharmacy
A historic pharmacy on Holland Road with over 40 years of history. Prices here are among the cheapest in downtown Macau, especially Japanese pain relief patches and vitamin supplements, which are frequently purchased in bulk by mainland travellers. The shop assistants speak Mandarin, so communication is no problem. Special recommendation: Japanese Salonpas warming patches, priced at approximately MOP$45-60, about 30% cheaper than Hong Kong; Otsuka Stomach Powder and other gastrointestinal medicines are also must-buy items.
5. Senda City Shopping Centre
A small to medium-sized shopping centre near the Border Gate, focusing on trendy clothing and accessories. The shops here change frequently, and you can always discover some affordable Japanese or Korean fashion brands. The mall has several accessory shops, with earrings and necklaces priced at approximately MOP$30-150, with styles more novel than chain stores. Special highlight: There's a nail salon on the second floor, costing approximately MOP$80-150 per session—excellent value for money. It's recommended to go in the evening, just as shops are switching on their lights, creating a better atmosphere.
【Practical Information】
Regarding transportation, the main modes of transport on the Macau Peninsula are buses and taxis. Bus fares are a flat MOP$6, or MOP$5 if using Macau Pass or MPay. If entering through the Border Gate, you can take bus AP1 directly to the New Port; if entering through the Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal, take bus 3A or number 10. Taxi flagfall is MOP$19, then MOP$2 for every 240 metres.
Regarding expenses, shopping expenditure on the Macau Peninsula depends on your goals. Souvenir budget is approximately MOP$100-500, cosmetics and skincare is approximately MOP$50-300, and daily necessities vary. Overall, the same products purchased on the Macau Peninsula are 15-30% cheaper than on the Cotai Strip.
Regarding opening hours, shops generally open from 10 am to 10 pm, while traditional markets like Yohann Market open much earlier—starting at 7 am, with crowds decreasing after midday. Pharmacies usually close at 9-10 pm, with some branches like those under Lai Lai staying open late.
【Travel Tips】
Macau does not have a tax refund system because goods themselves have no tariffs, so you don't need to calculate minimum spending amounts like you would in Japan. This myth must be broken—when you buy something in Macau, the marked price is the final price.
Regarding payment methods, it's strongly recommended to use MPay or Alipay, as the exchange rate works out better than using Hong Kong cash. Macau Pass physical cards may not be accepted at smaller shops, but larger supermarkets and chain stores definitely accept them. If you're used to using Octopus, sorry to say this card cannot be used in Macau—don't make a wasted trip.
Finally, a reminder: shop rents on the Macau Peninsula account for 40-60% of costs, so the same product can vary significantly in price across different areas. Due to intense competition, prices near the Border Gate and New Port are relatively more affordable; however, the area around the Senate Square tends to be slightly pricier due to the high number of tourists. A smart shopping strategy is: buy cosmetics and skincare in the New Port, purchase small daily items at Yohann Market, and buy souvenirs near the Ruins of St. Paul's—this allocation will save you the most money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Official Resources
Macau Special Administrative Region Government | Macau Statistics and Census Bureau | Macau Tourism Bureau
