Walk along Yongjia Road and you might just miss it, but San Zhu Wu is worth a visit if you want an intimate shopping experience that indulges most of your senses.

Raise your hand if you like shopping in huge crowds of bustling tourists, waiting in long queues, and being pestered with those words we have all come to dislike (to put it mildly) "watches-bags!" No, I didn't think there would be many takers. Granted, coming to Shanghai, the Nanjing and Huaihai experience is a must, but after a while, the pushing, shoving and city smoke can all become more stressful than culturally enlightening.

That's why when I walked into San Zhu Wu, a little boutique specializing in traditional folk craft goods, I was savoring both the relaxed atmosphere and the amazing display of intricate craft figures. I found that walking around this shop once was not enough, because my mind didn't really register everything that my eyes were seeing. I would notice new things each time and be in awe at the fact that everything in this little boutique had been carefully labored over by craftsmen and women.

A lover of originality, it's always nice to own something or give something that you know doesn't exist elsewhere. Make your way toward the back of the store and you will notice a step down takes you into a side section where there's a very small selection of clothes and a wide range of earrings, necklaces and bangles. If you look carefully, you can find unique pieces of jewelry that will have everyone asking "Where did you get that from?" It really is like mooching around an old and intriguing closet full of treasures.

Your eyes will be searching around the small store in wonderment at the intricacy of the paper cuttings and lanterns. You won't be able to resist the temptation to pick up the delicate chinese ethnic dolls lit by soft lamps, and run your fingers along the cute fabric pigs, horses and tigers, feeling the quality of the stitching with your own hands. The gentle sounds of traditional Chinese music barely audible but enough to be noticed and the sweet smell of oriental essential oils ensure that this is an experience far removed from the hustle and bustle of touristy Shanghai.

But enough about the atmosphere show me the goods! Well, let's just say if you're looking for something unique, intricate and interesting that reflects Chinese culture this is probably a good stop. Things are reasonably priced already, so no bargaining is required or expected.