The Ultimate Guide to Shopping in Hong Kong

Considering the fact that shopping for residents of Hong Kong is nothing short of a serious sport, it is no surprise then that this global city has more shopping destinations than you can imagine. Touted as one of the world’s best shopping venues, you will find everything from world class malls to designer boutiques and street markets. It is no wonder then that mega trading fairs such as the Indian Sourcing Fair: Garments and Accessories are held here regularly. But have you wondered what it is that makes shopping in Hong Kong such a great experience? Here’s a lowdown…

What’s On Offer?

Shopping is a culture in consumerist Hong Kong, with both locals and visitors making a beeline for its famous shopping destinations. As Southeast Asia’s sparkling gem, it has everything you can ask for from a truly international city. From spanking new shopping malls to glitzy shopping avenues and stellar street markets, shops and stalls are loaded with goods which meet your every need. These range from a large variety of clothes and accessories to electronic goods, cosmetics, optical goods, home products such as furniture and decorative items, jewellery and an entire array of snacks and drinks. What’s more, there is something for every kind of buyer. Depending on your pocket, you can shop at designer and flagship stores of international brands, get customized clothes and shoes made exclusively for yourself or throng the many street markets and shop for designer replicas.

Malls and Brands

For those who are conscious of the brands they flaunt and even for those who aren’t, Hong Kong’s Harbour City Mall has the second largest Louis Vuitton store in the world besides exclusive outlets of Dior, Tiffany and H&M. Malls such as Apple, Pacific Place, Sogo, Times Square, So Ho, and The Peak will not only offer retail therapy but also provide you with great options for food, entertainment and relaxation. If all the shopping tires you out, you can browse in bookshops as you sip on a cup of coffee, gorge on some of the most delectable cuisines at chic restaurants, try your hand at ice-skating, or just watch your favourite film.

Street Markets

Once you are done exploring the many malls and other spectacular shopping areas, you must take a round of Hong Kong’s famous street markets. In the characteristic Chinese habit of grouping things together, there are exclusive markets for every need, be it bridal shopping, refurbishing a home, a wardrobe overhaul or just plain curiosity. Head to places such as Cat Street for antiques, Dried Seafood Street and Tonic Food Street for some exotic seafood treats as well as Eastern traditional medicine/health tonics, the Apliu Flea Market in Kowloon for great bargains on electronic products and the chaotic Chueng Sha Wan Street for some bohemian chic wear.

The Ladies Market—one of the most famous street markets in Hong Kong—is a shopaholics paradise with over 100 stalls selling clothes, accessories, bags, cosmetics and what-have-you over a one kilometre long stretch. Crowded as it might be, this is where you’ll bag enviable finds. Don’t forget to put on your haggling hat though! If you are in the mood for some touristy adventure, Temple Street is just the place to be. At this night flea market you’ll find hawkers peddling unseen and unheard of food stuffs, alongside an eclectic mix of clothes, electronics, perfumes and more. Stanley Market is another open-air market in Hong Kong that is a hit with tourists. Scour the shops for oriental knick-knacks, branded apparel, souvenirs and exotic silks.

Good to Know

• Shopping in Hong Kong is cheaper than most other shopping destinations. Most goods from across the world, except for wines and cigarettes are tax free.
• Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan world city and very contemporary in its style. You can shop at the malls or throng the many street markets. There is something to offer for every pocket.
• Being a small city, it is easy to shop in Hong Kong. Public transport is cheap, efficient and easily accessible, and moving around should be the least of your worries.
• Hong Kong has a talented lot of local designers and tailors who can customize clothes and footwear and cater to your every need.
• Hong Kong offers a diversity of shopping, whether you are looking for fashion, cosmetics or electronic goods.

Looking for interesting bargains? Begin with booking your Hong Kong hotel and flight.