In China it’s common to give money as a gift on certain occasions, for instance on Chinese New Year, for birthdays and at weddings, though it’s certainly acceptable on other occasions as well. But, one cannot simply fork over a few bills. There is an etiquette to giving money in China.

Expensive city guides for Shanghai, Guangzhou and Beijing mention some of the most famous big open air produce markets, and to be sure you should go to these places if you’ve the time and inclination. They’re fun to see and make for an interesting experience for tourists and the curious alike. But if you really want to buy fresh vegetables in China’s cities, you needn’t go to any of these places or any great distance. You do need to get up early though.