I am presently living in Taipei and speak acceptable Chinese(last 5 years ) I recently visited Shanghai and found nothing close to the price , selection and quality of American stores. I was also in Beijing and went to their camera market and found there were many Russian and Chinese copies of Japanese and western cameras. Memory cards are a risky buy in China. Most are factory seconds and generally perform way below sticker specs. Even tripods are risky. I almost bought a Gizo ball head, or so it looked. When I had a look and start playing around with the movement I discovered it was a poor copy. Its the full con there. You will see copies complete with boxes and fake international warrenties (with holograms on them!). It wont be until you get home and start using them will you discover your mistake.
If I were you, I wouldnt buy any photo gear in china. Too risky, it may look like the real thing but it probably isnt. And if it, is it is cheaper in the US, HK ot Taipei.
Its a great place to visit and photograph. I have loved every minute of my life in Asia.
They charge around 100-150RMB.) Photographers need a good massage, after an all-day shooting, after all!