Exploring Hong Kong Street Markets
Of the many street markets in Hong Kong, the most famous ones are the Ladies’ Market in Mongkok and the Temple Street Night Market in Yau Ma Tei. I have never been keen on the Ladies’ Market; it’s a touch too touristy for me. Nonetheless, if you are already exploring Mongkok for electronic goods and sneakers, it’s worth checking the market out in the evening when it opens. You might get some very affordable souvenirs and gifts for friends and family. The Temple Street Market is more of a curios market (think cheap jade, Mao-era trinkets, Chinese Buddhas and other objets d’art of uncertain provenance). Yau Ma Tei as a district is rather more appealing to me. There is Broadway Cinematheque, Hong Kong’s longstanding indie cinema if you fancy watching an arthouse film. There is also the gloriously retro cha chanteng, Mido Café, to stop in for a drink and maybe a small bite, but especially to soak in the original vibes of 1950s Hong Kong (make sure to sit upstairs at a booth by the window). A saunter around Temple Street is always amusing. Notice the dodgy small shops selling porn, then find yourself a claypot rice joint for dinner (Hing Kee and Four Seasons are the places usually recommended). To walk off an indulgent meal, wander the market stalls until you reach the MTR at Jordan to head home. It makes for a pleasant day out.
