Suzhou, a city renowned for its picturesque canals and classical gardens, is also home to China’s largest and most famous wedding dress market—Huqiu Bridal City, or Huqiu Wedding City (虎丘婚纱城).
Nestled at the foot of the scenic Tiger Hill, this bustling hub is a dream destination for brides-to-be, grooms, and anyone planning a wedding. With its vast selection of wedding attire and accessories, Huqiu Wedding City has become a must-visit for those seeking the perfect wedding day ensemble.
I’m getting married in Beijing soon, and recently had a short visit to the Suzhou wedding market to see what it’s like. If you’re like me and looking for.a place in China with lots of wedding options, this is the place to go! Even if you don’t end up purchasing a dress here, it will give you an idea of options.
- About the Huqiu Wedding City
- The Wide Range of Wedding Shops Attire
- FAQ about Shopping for Wedding Dresses
- Tips for Navigating the Market
- Dresses I Tried On
- WeChat Contacts
About the Huqiu Wedding City
Huqiu Wedding City is more than just a marketplace; it’s a sprawling complex dedicated to the wedding industry. Covering an area of 120,000 square meters, with a total construction area of 300,000 square meters, this expansive space features four floors above ground and two partially underground. It is the first comprehensive wedding industrial chain complex in China, offering everything from wedding gowns and suits to accessories and more.
Located at 999 Hufu Road, Gusu District, Suzhou, Huqiu Wedding City is easy to find and well-connected by various modes of transportation. Visitors can reach the market by taxi, bus, or even by taking a short ride from Suzhou’s bustling city center.
- Address: 999 Hufu Road, Gusu District, Suzhou (苏州市姑苏区虎阜路999号)
- Official English Website: www.hqhsc.com
- Customer Service Phone: 0512-6556 5666
- Official Sina Weibo: 虎丘婚纱城
- Didi: Huqiu Wedding Dress City (or copy and paste the Chinese address above)
The Wide Range of Wedding Shops Attire
Huqiu Wedding City is renowned for its extensive selection of wedding attire. Whether you’re looking for a traditional white wedding gown, a classic Chinese red qipao, or even a stylish suit for the groom, you’ll find it all here. The market also caters to bridesmaids, flower girls, and guests, offering a variety of elegant evening gowns, cocktail dresses, and formal wear.
The diversity of styles is one of the market’s biggest attractions. From ball gowns adorned with intricate lace and beading to sleek, modern designs, there’s something for every taste and budget. Traditional Chinese wedding attire, like the qipao and the elaborate dragon-phoenix gown, are also widely available, making it a perfect destination for those looking to incorporate cultural elements into their big day.
FAQ about Shopping for Wedding Dresses
Do you need to set up appointments in advance?
No appointment needed! Just show up and walk around the shops.
Is it free to try on dresses?
It’s important to note that many shops charge a fee to try on dresses—one shop I went to charged 100 RMB ($14) to try on three dresses. Another shop I asked charged 100 RMB to try on 1 dress. This fee not only covers the cost of trying on the gowns but also ensures that customers are serious about their purchase. This is common in many bridal shops in China – in Beijing I had to pay a fee at a shop as well.
What are the price ranges for dresses here?
One of the most appealing aspects of shopping at Huqiu Wedding City is the ability to find high-quality wedding dresses at competitive prices. The majority of dresses I saw and asked about were priced between 2,000 and 4,000 RMB ($280 – $560 USD), but with a little bargaining, you can often secure a better deal. The market is known for its flexibility, so don’t hesitate to negotiate with shop owners, especially if you’re ready to make a purchase on the spot.
How was the sizing?
The majority of the dresses are still Chinese sizing. I did find that there were lots of options for mid-sizes though, so I feel like US sizes 8 – 14 should be able to find dresses to try on. Many dresses come with adjustable backs, which can accommodate a range of sizes. However, plus-size options may be limited. If you’re curious, I think it’s still worth going to look and see options, and you can then have a custom dress made there. Feel free to also add some of the contacts below and asking them about their options.
Tips for Navigating the Market
Navigating Huqiu Wedding City can be overwhelming due to its sheer size and the vast number of shops available. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:
- Know What You Want: Before you arrive, have a clear idea of the type of dress you’re looking for. Are you dreaming of a white ball gown, a sleek mermaid dress, or a traditional Chinese qipao? Knowing your preferences will help you narrow down your options and save time.
- Allow Plenty of Time: Given the sheer size of the market, expect to spend several hours—if not an entire day—browsing the shops. Take your time to explore and compare different stores before making a decision. I spent around 2 hours here, and that was barely enough time to walk through the whole complex. I only ended up trying on dresses at one shop.
- Bring a Friend: Shopping for a wedding dress is a significant experience, and having a trusted friend or family member with you can provide valuable feedback and support.
- Explore the Accessories: Beyond wedding dresses, Huqiu Wedding City offers a wide array of accessories, including veils, shoes, gloves, and jewelry. It’s a one-stop shop for all your wedding day needs.
- BARGAIN! Prices at Huqiu Wedding City are often negotiable. Start with a lower offer and be willing to haggle, especially if you’re purchasing multiple items or ready to buy on the same day.
- Get WeChat Contacts: Don’t feel pressured to make a decision immediately. Many shop owners will be happy to exchange WeChat contacts, allowing you to continue negotiations or place an order later. This is particularly useful if you decide to have your dress shipped to you.
- Respect Store Policies: Some shops may charge a fee to try on dresses, and many don’t allow photography to prevent designs from being copied. Be mindful of these policies as you shop.
Dresses I Tried On
I just tried on a few dresses in one shop – each was around 2800 RMB.
WeChat Contacts
You can add these sellers below. These are just a few contacts I added who I liked the dress styles.
Final Thoughts
Huqiu Wedding City is a treasure trove for anyone planning a wedding in China. With its incredible selection, competitive prices, and the opportunity to customize your attire, it’s no wonder that brides and grooms from all over the world flock to this market. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Chinese wedding outfit or a contemporary Western-style gown, you’re sure to find the perfect attire to make your special day unforgettable.
Remember to bring your bargaining skills, a clear vision of what you want, and plenty of time to explore. And if you’re not ready to make a purchase on the day, don’t worry—many shops are happy to connect via WeChat and arrange for shipping later. Happy shopping!
