There are plenty of familiar chains in China, including a number of supermarkets such as Wal-Mart and Carrefour. Once you get inside, though, Chinese supermarkets are a little bit different from what you might be used to.

You can buy frozen chickens in Chinese supermarkets. Unlike my local supermarket in London, they still have the head and feet on.

Live turtles paddle around a crowded tank in the seafood section.

Half an aisle is signposted and devoted solely to various brands of MSG.