Hong Kong is famous for its markets – a window into the city’s culture and heritage. They’re where tradesmen set up shop, locals jostle for their meat and veg, and visitors stop by for city keepsakes. We’ve rounded-up a few of the best markets Hong Kong has to offer, from Kowloon to Sheung Wan, and what to look out for while you’re there.
Temple Street Night Market
Hong Kong’s only night market comes alive after dark, with hundreds of stalls illuminated under the neon signs of Temple Street. Here you’ll find locally-made trinkets, tea ware, jade and antiques, with street food stalls to keep you going.
5-11pm Mon-Sun; Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong
Jade Market
This covered market is your go-to for buying jade – a Chinese symbol of good luck – in every shade of green, and in every form, from carved jewellery to statues. But over the years, the market has evolved to sell pearls and other stones including agate, malachite, and coral – not to be missed for gem enthusiasts.
11am-5:45pm Mon-Sat; Kansu Steet and Battery Street, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong
Kowloon City Wet Market
Hong Kong’s wet markets are home to some of the city’s best food produce, and nowhere is this truer than in Kowloon. Here, the city’s biggest wet market is famous for its high-grade pork and fresh vegetables and herbs that draw big-name chefs to its stalls.
6am-8pm Mon-Sun; 102 Nga Tsin Wai Road, Kowloon City, Hong Kong
Cat Street Antique Market
Upper Lascar Row, known locally as Cat Street, has a trading history of more than 100 years. Located in the neighbourhood of Sheung Wan, the market is on a sleepier street than others listed here and is a pleasant place to while away an afternoon. Cabinets of curiosities include Chairman Mao figurines, vintage Bruce Lee posters, ceramic vases and more.
11am-5pm Mon-Sun; Upper Lascar Row, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Mong Kok Flower Market
Flower Market Road is lined with floristry stalls selling cut flowers, potted plants, seeds and bulbs, offering a welcome dose of greenery in the city. Seasonal flowers are in abundance, while certain shops specialise in particular plants – such as roses or orchids – with vendors on hand to offer growing advice.
9:30am-7:30pm Mon-Sun; Flower Market Road, Prince Edward, Hong Kong
Editor
Alice Riley-Smith