Worth finding
Pear-Syrup Candy (梨膏糖)
A Shanghai institution since 1855: small amber candies made from pear syrup, traditionally sold at the Yuyuan bazaar.
Should you buy it?
Good for
- Travelers wanting the most 'old Shanghai' edible souvenir
- Gift buyers — the retro tins are collectible
- Anyone stocking up on light, non-perishable food gifts
Not for
- Candy skeptics — it's a throat-soothing herbal candy, sweeter than medicine, less sweet than Western candy
- Diabetics — check sugar content
Why it is worth considering
Pear-syrup candy (梨膏糖) has been made in Shanghai since the Qing dynasty — the famous Yuyuan-area shops have sold it since 1855. It's a small amber hard candy made from concentrated pear juice with herbal additions, traditionally taken for the throat. The old brands (like the 城隍庙梨膏糖 shop at Yuyuan) still use the traditional recipe.
It's an ideal edible souvenir: sealed tins, long shelf life, unmistakably old-Shanghai. The classic original flavor is the safe choice; herbal variants are stronger-tasting.
Price
Price varies — check in store
We have not verified a current price for this item.
Before you buy, check
- Buy the sealed tins from the old-brand shops, not loose bulk from stalls
- Original flavor first; herbal variants (枇杷, 薄荷) are an acquired taste
- Check the production date — the tins keep for months, but fresher is better
Good to know
- Sealed commercial tins clear customs easily in most countries; keep them sealed until home
Sources
- Pear-syrup candy — Wikipedia (checked 2026-10-10)
Recommendation checked 2026-10-10.