For much of the 20th century, the 百货公司 was a symbol of modernity, urban sophistication, and the rise of consumer culture in China. The first modern department stores, like the Sincere Company (先施公司) and Wing On (永安公司) in Shanghai, were grand, multi-story buildings that were destinations in themselves. They introduced fixed prices, receipts, and a new, luxurious shopping experience to the public.
To understand its place today, it's best to compare it to a Western concept:
百货公司 (bǎihuò gōngsī) is like a “classic department store” (e.g., Macy's, Nordstrom): It's a single business entity. You pay for all your items—whether a shirt, a lipstick, or a rice cooker—at various cash registers operated by the department store itself.
商场 (shāngchǎng) or 购物中心 (gòuwù zhōngxīn) is like a “shopping mall” (e.g., Mall of America): This is a large building or complex that
leases space to many independent, individual stores (e.g., an Apple store, a Nike store, a Zara). It also includes a wide array of entertainment options like cinemas, restaurants, and arcades.
While many 百货公司 still exist, especially older, state-owned ones, the modern Chinese shopping landscape is dominated by the massive, experience-driven 商场.
The term 百货公司 is still common, but its usage often implies a more traditional type of store.
Everyday Conversation: People use it when referring to a specific, known department store, especially one that's been around for a long time. For example, “I'm going to the Beijing Department Store (北京百货大楼).”
Distinguishing from Malls: A speaker might use 百货公司 specifically to differentiate it from a 商场. If a friend says “Let's go shopping,” you might ask, “To the department store or the new mall?” (去百货公司还是那个新商场?).
Online vs. Offline: With the explosion of
网购 (wǎnggòu - online shopping), the physical 百货公司 is often seen as a place for older generations or for people who want to see and touch products before buying. However, many have adapted by creating their own online stores or focusing on high-end luxury goods.
The connotation is generally neutral, but it can feel slightly dated depending on the context and the speaker.
The most common point of confusion for learners is the difference between a 百货公司 and a 商场 (shāngchǎng). They are not interchangeable.
Think of it this way: you go to a 商场 (mall), but you go into a 百货公司 (department store), even though that department store might be inside the mall!