Last Updated on February 11, 2026 by Sammie
The Complete Hong Kong Market Guide
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Who doesn’t love a tiny Hong Kong market tucked away in an alley filled with thingamajigs and gadgets? A place where you can find a new phone, a goldfish, or a priceless gong or jade bracelet. It’s harder to name things you can’t find in a Hong Kong Market than it is to name things you can.
What’s amazing about shopping in Hong Kong is that every market has a story tied to it. It’s giving retail therapy meets cultural experience. And I think we’re all here for that.
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I live in Macau, which is a hop, skip, and a jump away from Hong Kong. But I’m from Chicago. I say this because shopping is in my veins. I will stand in line in the pouring rain just to bear witness to a collection of old vintage watches. Watches that were once worn by a Hollywood star whom I saw in a movie 15 years ago. What can I say? I love a story. That’s why the markets in Hong Kong are so much fun!
Is Hong Kong Part of China?
To put things simply, Hong Kong is a special administrative region of China, exactly like Macau. Hong Kong is governed under the principle of “one country, two systems”. After Britain’s 99-year lease of Hong Kong, the territory was handed back over to China in 1997. During this handover, Hong Kong was to be part of China, but the “current social and economic systems” as well as the “lifestyle” would remain untouched for 50 years. Hong Kong’s history is a bit all over the place and hasn’t simplified in recent times. There’ve been protests and tension and in my opinion, a slow change of a city that is close to my heart.
However, it is still an incredible place with much to explore and discover. If you want to read more about Hong Kong’s interesting history, check it out HERE.
My sister and I when she came out to visit me in Macau and Hong Kong. Everyone thinks we’re twins.
THINGS TO NOTE FOR HONG KONG:
Hong Kong can be disgustingly hot and sticky. You will undoubtedly be sweating constantly outside. However, always bring a light jacket because you will be very uncomfortable with the crazy amount of AC this place uses. Especially if you’re really sweaty, as soon as you cool off, you will get cold from the arctic blasts of the ac units.
What is the Hong Kong Currency?
Hong Kong Dollar.
I’ll mention this again later, but you’ll need Hong Kong dollars if you plan to take a taxi to get to any of the markets in Hong Kong. Credit cards are generally not accepted in taxis in Hong Kong.
Byōdō-In in Uji, Japan
Hong Kong Market FAQs
I could make a list of over 100 things to do in Kyoto, but I’m not sure anyone has time for that. Instead, I will break it into the most popular things to do in Kyoto and the more unique things to do in Kyoto.
Do they accept credit cards?
Typically, Hong Kong market vendors do not accept credit cards. It’s best to bring cash.
When do the Markets Open?
Hong Kong street markets open at various times of the day. Some of them are morning markets, some open in the afternoon, and some in the evening. Most of the markets will have their hours marked on Google; however, I would go towards the middle of the hours listed. Sometimes, not all of the stalls are open by “opening hour,” and sometimes stalls will close early.
If you want to see the markets in full swing, go a few hours after they open and a few hours before the close.
Can I barter at a Hong Kong Market?
Yes, you sure can! Granted, it might not always work, but you are welcome to try. At most popular street markets like Ladies Market or Temple Street, bartering is expected. Try bartering 20%-50% less than the listed price. If the seller isn’t budging, a good trick is to walk away. They will be quicker to lower the price if they think they won’t get a sale at all.
Hong Kong Markets
1. Temple Street Market
The quintessential HK night market. It’s gritty, vibrant, and exactly what you imagine when you think of the city at night. This is the place where the energy of the city gets going after the sun goes down. If you’re “lucky” you might see someone who believes they are an opera singing belting their heart out between the stalls. Or maybe someone will offer to read your palm for a few HKDs. It’s your destiny, choose your fate.
Come hungry because there are a lot of dai pai dongs, or open-air food stalls. You may be a bit sheepish to try anything because everything has the tendency to smell of fish balls, but you can’t go wrong with claypot rice. I’m from the Midwest, you can trust me.
Address: Temple St, Jordan, Hong Kong
What to buy: Cheap electronics, “designer” watches, souvenir t-shirts, and tea sets.
Hours: 4:00 PM – Midnight (Go after 8:00 PM for the real vibe).
✨Insider Tip: If you feel confident and grab a plastic stool at one of the open-air food stalls, make sure you don’t immediately drink the tea they set down in front of you. This is for washing your dishes. Pour the tea over your utensils and bowl into the basin. It’s to remove any city dust.
2. Ladies Market
The ultimate place to test your bartering skills. It’s crowded, loud, and packed with clothes. From tightie-whities sold in volume to boutiques offering handmade sweaters. Here, you’ll find it all. Take a breath before walking through because it can be quite overwhelming. The sheer volume of stuff packed into these few blocks is enough to make you question your moral compass if you even know where you are at that point.
Either way, it’s a prime spot for people-watching, as tourists and locals alike haggle over the latest “it” bags and HK t-shirts.
Address: Tung Choi St, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
What to buy: Bags, clothing, accessories, and “I Heart HK” souvenirs.
Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM.
✨Insider Tip: Never accept the first price—aim for 50% off and walk away if they don’t budge. There are 17 other stalls probably selling the exact same thing.
3. Apliu Electronics Market
A local deep-dive into Sham Shui Po. If you need a cable or a vintage camera, this is your spot. It feels like a graveyard for tech, where you can find parts for gadgets that haven’t been manufactured in decades. It’s less about the glitz and more about the hunt for that one specific piece of gear you didn’t know you needed. Just know that if you don’t know what you’re looking for, I’m not sure you’ll have the time of your life here.
I once went to get inspo for my first big girl camera. I spent the afternoon talking about it to my boyfriend, arrived, spent 5 minutes walking around silently, then told him I was ready to go home. If someone can tell me what I should be looking for, I would love to go back!
Address: Apliu St, Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong
What to buy: New and used electronics, vintage film cameras, and power tools.
Hours: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM.
✨Insider Tip: Before you even think about handing over cash at a stall, pull up Price.com.hk on your phone. Use this price to show the vendor man or woman the price, and they will usually match it and not rip you off for being a tourist.
4. Cat Street Antiques Market
A much more chill spot for “cool” vintage finds and Mao memorabilia (things from the era of Mao Zedong, during the Cultural Revolution). Walking through here feels like digging through the world’s most interesting attic, filled with relics of Hong Kong’s diverse history.
I found my apartment gong here. I don’t think it was once owned by any famous leaders from the Han Dynasty, but who knows. It gets conversation going in the apartment and is always there when I’ve finished making dinner, and my boyfriend is still scrolling on his phone on the toilet.
Address: Upper Lascar Row, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
What to buy: Reproductions of antiques, jade ornaments, and vintage posters.
Hours: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Most stalls are closed on Sundays).
✨Insider Tip: Most things are reproductions, but they make for great home decor.
5. Mong Kok Flower Market
A literal breath of fresh air. An excuse to get out of the hotel, even for a short while. No matter if you are buying a bouquet or not, come, because the colors are insane. The scent of lilies and roses hits you blocks before you even arrive, offering a sweet escape from the city’s exhaust fumes. It’s a beautiful, organized mess of exotic orchids and lucky bamboo that looks like something out of a movie set.
Once again, even if you aren’t buying any bouquets today, go ahead and take a look at those prices and weep. Could you imagine getting flowers for that cheap at home? Asia ain’t bad, I tell ya.
Address: Flower Market Rd, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
What to buy: Exotic flowers, seeds, and high-end gardening supplies.
Hours: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
✨Insider Tip: Visit in the morning for the freshest blooms and fewer crowds.
6. Yao Me Tai Jade Market
A labyrinth of stalls selling every shade of green imaginable for luck and protection. There’s something hypnotic about the rows of bangles and charms, all supposedly carrying different levels of spiritual significance. Besides the immense amount of jade, you’ll also be able to spot some pearls and other semi-precious stones. Unless you know the ol’ “run the pearl over your tooth” trick, I’d save the high price tags for the permanent storefronts. You can find something nice, but you need to know what you’re looking for.
Come early because you can often get away with a first customer of the day discount. And even if you aren’t customer numero uno, still bargain. They expect it.
Address: Junction of Kansu Street and Battery Street, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon
What to buy: Jade bangles, pendants, and zodiac charms.
Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
✨Insider Tip: Buy because it’s pretty, not as an investment—unless you’re a pro.
7. Dried Seafood Market
The name doesn’t leave much to the imagination. The smell is strong, but it’s a fascinating look at traditional Chinese medicine. Giant glass jars filled with things you probably can’t identify line the walls of every shop, representing thousands of years of healing history. It’s an essential stop if you want to understand the “real” Hong Kong outside of the luxury malls. I often come here with my more experienced friends. It’s a great place to find those tricky ingredients for great ramen or soups. Just don’t expect anyone to be giving you a tour of their shop in English.
Address: Des Voeux Road West, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
What to buy: Dried scallops or shrimp, abalone, and various medicinal herbs.
Hours: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM.
✨Insider Tip: More of a “walking and gawking” street for tourists, but great for photos.
8. Tai Yuen Toy Market
Potentially your mother’s worst nightmare, but also so much fun! Tai Yuen Toy Market is a mix of new trends and old-school classics. You can find some Legos mixed with action figures, cheap plastic figurines, and holiday decorations. There’s so much to explore here, but doable in an afternoon. A perfect little adventure if you happen to be in Hong Kong for a business trip. If you keep a keen eye, it’s one of the few places where you can find high-end collectibles sitting right next to 50-cent plastic trinkets.
Address: Tai Yuen St, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
What to buy: LEGO sets, classic HK die-cast cars, and anime figurines.
Hours: 10:30 AM – 8:00 PM.
✨Insider Tip: Great for finding unique collectibles you can’t find in big stores.
9. Kowloon City Wet Market
Once THE hot spot for locals to sell, trade, and gather for the latest community gossip (potentially kidding??). Now it’s a place where locals and tourists stop by for either some fresh produce or a hot lunch. It’s not the cutest place you’ll visit, but it’s a really cool insight into Hong Kong’s heritage. It’s a bit different now, but still worth a trip. Go for the freshest produce and stay for the food center. The energy here is a bit chaotic, but I dig it. Don’t miss the Thai food on the top floor.
Address: 100 Nga Tsin Wai Rd, Kowloon City, Hong Kong
What to buy: High-quality exotic fruits, fresh spices, and Thai ingredients.
Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
✨Insider Tip: Head to the top floor for the best authentic Thai and Cantonese food.
11. Chop Alley
A historic 100-meter tiny lane stretch in Sheung Wan, where you can get a custom signature seal stone etched with designs, names, or logos from Hong Kong artisans. I did not know what this meant, so I looked deeper into it. A chop is a personalized stone that can be used as a unique stamp or “signature”. It’s amazing to watch the craftsmen work with such precision on such a tiny surface, creating something that’s survived centuries of tradition.
Getting your name translated and carved into a stone “chop” is probably one of the coolest souvenirs you can get in the city. I will undoubtedly be bringing my dad here when he comes to visit this spring, and I’ll probably get one myself. How cool would you feel if you signed a birthday card with a signature stamp? Just think about it…
Address: Man Wa Lane, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
What to buy: Personalized Chinese “chops” or seals.
Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
✨Insider Tip: If you place your order before noon and the artisan isn’t swamped, you can usually pick it up by 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM the same day.
12. Yuen Po Bird Market
A traditional Chinese garden where locals bring their pet birds to socialize. This is a very odd place to visit. I think I liked it? I went with my mom, my first year living in Macau, and we both enjoyed walking around and seeing the gorgeous, various species of exotic birds and the BEAUTIFUL cages they were placed in. But the reality of it is that it’s a street with a bunch of birds in cages. Kind of sad. However, it is incredibly peaceful here. It’s a rare, slow-paced pocket of culture in a city that usually moves at a hundred miles an hour.
Address: Yuen Po St, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
What to buy: Intricate wooden birdcages and bird-themed ceramics.
Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
✨Insider Tip: Be respectful with photos; it’s a genuine community hub.
13. Sneakers Street (Fa Yuen Street)
If you’re workin on your drip or were called out on a fit check (both of those terms I just looked up on Google, BOOM), this might be your spot. Though it may seem too good to be true, most of these shoes are authentic. Some lesser-known retailers may try to sneak in some high-quality counterfeits, but as long as you stick to reputable retailers on the street level, you’ll be fine. The sheer density of the various shoe brands and types will blow your mind.
If you only have an hour, I wouldn’t even bother; you will undoubtedly be late for whatever it is that you are trying to make it to. Plan an open afternoon when heading to Sneaker Street.
Address: Fa Yuen St, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
What to buy: Limited edition sneakers, sportswear, and athletic gear.
Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
✨Insider Tip: Compare prices! Different shops often have different sales.
14. Goldfish Market
Bizarre and beautiful—hundreds of fish in bags hanging like we’re at a school fair (anyone else get that reference, or maybe it’s a Chicago thing…). It’s a surreal visual experience that feels more like an art installation than a pet store. Locals believe fish bring good feng shui, so you’ll see people of all ages carefully inspecting these tiny things for the perfect addition to their home. Maybe my feng shui is all wrong because I’ve never been able to keep a fish alive longer than a month.
Address: Tung Choi St North, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
What to buy: Aquarium supplies and (if you live here!) tropical fish.
Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
✨Insider Tip: You’ll probably want one of those photos with goldfish hanging in oxygen-filled bags, but pay attention to the NO PHOTOS signs. The shop owners aren’t kidding, and they will yell at you. If you really want a photo, look for the stalls without the NO PHOTOS sign or at least buy something first to get the vibe to shift.
15. Queen Street Cooked Food Market
I wouldn’t necessarily look up a picture of Queen Street Cooked Food Market because you’ll probably be unimpressed. HOWEVER. The food’ll blow you away if you grab a spot at ABC Kitchen.
It’s quite the paradox. ABC Kitchen is a high-quality European food establishment serving foie gras and roasted suckling pig for $200-$400 HKD. All while located in a communal, loud, bustling, elbow-to-elbow atmosphere. Put this spot on your list if you want to feel like you did something more local and less hotel institutionalized dinner with a guaranteed good meal. You won’t find this good a meal served on plastic stools anywhere else. So Hong Kong, I love it.
Address: 1 Queen St, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
What to eat: Italian-Canton fusion or traditional dim sum.
Hours: 6:00 AM – 2:00 AM.
✨Insider Tip: You can bring your own wine to ABC Kitchen or ask to see their selection.
16. Stanley Market
This humble “vacation vibes” market needs all the support it can get. It’s truly an adorable market right along the beach, but since COVID, some of the shops are still closed. Stanley Market is a beautiful reprise from the hectic lights and chaos between the sky scrappers. The shop fronts are filled with locals, but the selection can feel a touch curated for tourists. Either way, grab a bite to eat on the promenade, take your coffee to go, and wander through for some high-quality gifts.
Address: Stanley Market Rd, Stanley, Hong Kong
What to buy: Silk garments, original artwork, and Western-sized clothing.
Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM.
✨Insider Tip: Take the bus (sit on top!) for the incredible coastal views. Sit on the right side of the bus on the way there and the alternate side on your return :).
17. Li Yuen East & West Street
The “Central Lanes”—narrow alleys lined with bargain fashion. It’s not as big as it once was, but despite its downsize you can still find some hidden treasure. The street is made humorously small with shops lining either side, with more shops behind the street shops. It’s not my top choice for market wandering, but it’s a great option if you don’t have time to make it out of central. If you look closely, you might be able to find some name-brand items with the tags snipped.
Address: Li Yuen St East & West, Central, Hong Kong
What to buy: Cheap clothing, costume jewelry, and fabrics.
Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
✨Insider Tip: Perfect for quick wardrobe fixes if you’re staying in Central.
18. Jardines Crescent
This isn’t going to be the spot to find your touristy I LOVE HK t-shirt, but if you’re looking for some clothes because your luggage was lost, this would be a great cheap option. This is a local market. A mini Ladies Market in the heart of Causeway Bay. It’s a fairly tight, like one person passes at a time tight, but the deals on small items like hair clips and socks are hard to beat. It’s the perfect place to kill twenty minutes while you’re waiting for a table at one of the nearby Michelin-starred restaurants.
Address: Jardine’s Crescent, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
What to buy: Hair accessories, socks, and cheap knitwear. And Fresh flowers if you make it to the end of the street!
Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
✨Insider Tip: A great place for seasonal souvenir items.
19. Chun Yuen Street
Chun Yuen Street is iconic. One of the few spots where you can pick up some fresh produce, stop by the butcher, and hop on a double-decker within 2 steps of each other. This market is known for its trams passing right up next to the market stalls. It’s high energy and very Hong Kong, as in nobody thinks this is comical or like…hazardous? Only in Asia, amiright? It’s this city’s blue-collar market and well worth a visit.
Address: Chun Yeung St, North Point, Hong Kong
What to buy: Fresh fruit, seafood, and household basics.
Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:30 PM.
✨Insider Tip: Ride the tram through the market for the best perspective.
20. PMQ
PMQ is my go-to in Hong Kong. I’ve brought every single person who has visited me here, sort of for them, mostly because it gives me an excuse to go back. This is not a traditional market but a massive creative hub for local designers.
This former police dormitory has been converted into a maze of tiny studios where you can meet the artists and see them at work. It’s the best place to find modern, stylish pieces that are actually made in Hong Kong rather than imported from elsewhere. A lot of the items range in price, so don’t be put off if you wander into a shop and quickly turn around because of the prices.
Also, give yourself time here. There are a lot of shops and a lot of floors. You’ll probably tire out before seeing everything, which gives you a great excuse to come back! Did I mention they do workshops here too??
Address: 35 Aberdeen St, Central, Hong Kong
What to buy: Local designer fashion, handmade jewelry, and artisanal crafts.
Hours: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM (though the site stays open until 11:00 PM).
✨Insider Tip: Check their schedule for weekend pop-up night markets, and don’t skimp on grabbing some ice cream at the nearby Snack Baby Gelato (it’s my favorite).
21. Central Market
I love Central Market! It has a constant revolving door of vendors, with some staple brick-and-mortar shops always there. My favorite store, Slowood, which sells sustainable, zero-waste items, has a location here. Central Market is a community space; therefore, besides boutiques and food vendors, there are a variety of workshops and classes from local artists and vendors to check out. Plan accordingly, because you can lose some time here.
Address: 80-82 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
What to buy: Artisanal crafts, unique Hong Kong-themed souvenirs, local designer fashion, and “supermarket” bags.
Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
✨Insider Tip: This is a great “third place” to chill for locals. There’s free seating (if you manage to find a space) and clean bathrooms, a perfect spot to escape a mid-torrential downpour of rain.
Check out a Day Trip to Macau from Hong Kong!
Come check me out in The House of Dancing Water in Macau, the largest water show in the world!
Tips for visiting Hong Kong
- Get the physical Octopus card then put it in your Apple Wallet! For me, personally, this is so much easier. I always have anyone who comes and visits me grab a card, then add it to their Apple Wallet. You can even top it up online if you want. Grab one HERE before your trip.
- Bring a light rainjacket for your trip. Hong Kong is notorious for sudden rainstorms when it was perfectly sunny three seconds ago. Just make sure it’s light because Hong Kong is humid as hell.
- Yes Hong Kong is technically a part of China, but they do not speak Mandarin. They speak Cantonese, so save your “Nei Hou” for the Great Wall or risk getting some not-so-friendly tourist treatment. They genuinely prefer to hear English rather than be mistaken for a mainland Chinese person. It might not sound great, but it’s true.
- If you’re heading to Victoria’s Peak and don’t want to wait in line for the Peak Tram, check out the #15 bus from Central Ferry Terminal or the #1 minibus from IFC. You won’t have to wait 3 hours to get onto the Peak Tram, and the views from the #15 bus or #1 minibus are arguably better.
I think I managed to hit every Hong Kong market I have ever heard of and come across. But if I’ve missed one, don’t be shy to shout at me! I’m always here for the updates.
Happy traveling and enjoy :)!
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