Hong Kong Markets

Ladies Market, Photo by Patricia Padilla

HONG KONG — One of the many exciting things to do in Hong Kong is to visit the numerous markets available to the public. From vendors selling the most beautiful jade jewelry to others selling adult entertainment products, it is safe to say there is something for everyone.

One of the most popular markets in Hong Kong is the Ladies Market located in the district of Mong Kok. It's a great place for tourists to pick up very inexpensive souvenirs - that is, if you're willing to bargain for them. A good rule of thumb is whatever price the vendor gives you for an item, cut it in half and work your way up from there. But above all, don't forget a smile and a good attitude will take you a long way! Another reason the Ladies Market is so popular with the tourists is because of the amount of illegal copy merchandise sold, such as DVD's, watches and handbags. If you make a good bargain, you can walk out of there with a Coach bag and Rolex watch for under $20. Although the sale of these illegal goods is not technically condoned by Hong Kong authorities, they don't actively prosecute against the vendors.

Fortune Teller at Night Market, Photo by Patricia Padilla

Another very popular market is the Temple Street Market, or Night Market, as it is commonly known. The picturesque atmosphere of this market makes it a must-see attraction for all tourists. First of all, it does not start until about 6:00 p.m., when the streets become flooded with tents and rugs displaying the colorful merchandise. In addition to selling the same type of merchandise found in the Ladies Market, this market also sells a plethora of products that by many standards would not be appropriate for the daylight. Pornographic films and adult toys are just some of the many items that are available for sale in this market - and don't expect to be taken to some back room to see this merchandise, it is all out in the open, next to the fake Fendi bags and Omega watches.

There is also a mystical side to the Night Market, greatly thanks to the mysterious fortune tellers located all over the market. From tarot readings to having a pigeon pick out your fortune out a pile, these fortune tellers are responsible for the number of tourists that flood this market.

Vendor at Bird Market, Photo by Patricia Padilla

Although those are the most popular markets in Hong Kong, there are others located all over the city. One that's very popular for the tourists (especially the ladies!) is the Jade market, which is a magnet for jade collectors from all over the world. Tourists can find anything from small, rare pieces to inexpensive jade souvenirs.

Not all the markets in Hong Kong are made for the tourists- the Bird Market, famous for exactly what it sounds like, hundreds of birds, is a popular spot for locals. Birds are valued in Hong Kong and it is not uncommon to see a group of locals gathered around comparing their birds.

Although Hong Kong can be a very expensive city, the markets give tourists an opportunity to experience the city like the locals do. Far away from the designer shops and five-star hotels of the main districts, there is a whole world of undiscovered trinkets to explore!

To learn more about the different Hong Kong markets, please visit the Frommer's destination guide.