Sculptures and other works utilizing local seashells abound in this seaside town. There's a local arts community, however, many of the same crafts and souvenirs are available throughout China.

Cuiyan douhua is a kind of drawing made from colorful beans. Subjects include folklore legends and modern landscapes. One popular subject is the "Eight Immortals Crossing the Ocean", a well-known legend of the eight Taoist Immortals. These pieces of bean art cost about RMB 20. Shells with intricate carvings on them go for RMB 5 to over RMB 10.

Dalian has some excellent shopping for a city of its size. Qingniwa is a popular shopping area with clusters of stores and small vendors. Shengli Square is a modern mall with good restaurants. Tianjin Jie Shangquan is a pedestrian street lined with shops, it's a good place go for a window-shopping stroll. The Friendship Store stocks all kinds of name brand products, it stands beside Zhongshan Square .Most stores are open from 9am to 9pm.