5 Best Shopping in Myanmar

This upmarket workshop accepts credit cards (plus 5% surcharge) if you spend more than $100. Bagan House sells a huge array of products fit for a [Burmese] king or queen, from chic coasters to lamps.

The owners here have a workshop where visitors can see the lacquerware being made alongside a slew of vases, bowls, cups, and jewelry for sale. The family-run shop has been open since 1975, and the owner speaks English.

This small, family-run business makes everything on-site and then sells its wares both directly to customers and to larger lacquerware shops. Prices here are at least 20% cheaper than the more tourist-focused workshops, and the family themselves are quite lovely. Expect to pay around $25 for a 14-layer vase (the more layers, the higher the quality).

Locals do their produce shopping at this market, where the array of colorful fruits, vegetables, and flowers is simply gorgeous. This is also a fantastic one-stop spot to shop for gifts and souvenirs, with countless stalls selling beautiful handicrafts, lacquerware, and textiles, including longyis. The market runs 6 am to 5 pm, but is at its most lively before noon.

You'll find all manner of trinkets at this shop. Peruse faux antiques, wood carvings, carved stone pieces, wind chimes, and leogryph figurines as well as puppets and assorted jewelry.