Worth finding
Wangxingji Fan (王星记扇子)
Handmade fans from the 1875 heritage brand — black-paper, sandalwood, and silk fans that are art you can use.
Should you buy it?
Good for
- Craft lovers — a genuine piece of Chinese intangible heritage
- Gift buyers — fans are light, flat, and culturally rich
- Summer visitors — you'll actually use it
Not for
- Travelers wanting the cheapest option — the best-value fans are mid-range, not the cheapest
- Anyone who'll toss it in a bag unprotected — bamboo ribs snap
Why it is worth considering
Wangxingji (王星记), founded in 1875 in Hangzhou, is China's most famous fan maker and a national intangible-heritage brand. The range runs from affordable paper folding fans to exquisite black-paper fans (黑纸扇), sandalwood fans, and silk palace fans — each handmade through dozens of steps. A good fan is both a usable object and a display piece.
The flagship shop on Renhe Road is the place to buy: full range, fixed prices, and the heritage story on the walls. Open the fan in the shop and check the action — it should open smoothly and evenly.
Price
Price varies — check in store
We have not verified a current price for this item.
Before you buy, check
- Open the fan fully in the shop — it should open smoothly with even spacing
- Black-paper fans (黑纸扇) are the brand's signature; sandalwood fans smell wonderful but cost more
- Check the ribs for cracks and the paper/silk for tears before paying
- Ask for a protective sleeve or box for travel
Good to know
- Pack flat in your carry-on; bamboo ribs snap under pressure
Sources
- 王星记扇子 — Wikipedia (checked 2026-10-10)
- 王星记扇庄, Hangzhou - Reviews & Info — Wanderlog (checked 2026-10-10)
Recommendation checked 2026-10-10.