Mong Kok is a densely populated area in Hong Kong with all kinds of bustling streets. Here, you can go to a street that mainly sells flowers, sneakers, street food, or a combination of them. There’s also the Ladies Market that sells affordable women’s apparel. Or if you prefer something more modern and youthful, Mong Kok also has modern shopping malls. Here are the top 10 things that should be on your list when you visit Mong Kok.
Shopping
1. Ladies Market
The Ladies’ Market, stretching over a kilometer along Tung Choi Street, is a great place for ladies looking for affordable clothing. You may be able to negotiate with some of the sellers there. If you find a seller that drives you out, don’t let it dampen your shopping experience. There are plenty of stalls selling similar items, so just move on if needed.
Tip: The market is usually crowded, so always look out for your belongings.
2. Sneaker Street
Located on Fa Yuen Street near the Ladies Market, this market is a must-visit for sneakerheads. This unique market offers a vast selection of sneakers from renowned brands like Nike and Adidas, including some rare finds. If you’re a sneaker aficionado or just looking for a comfortable pair of shoes, don’t miss this place.
3. Langham Place
Beyond the traditional street markets, Mong Kok also boasts modern shopping malls like Langham Place. As the largest mall in Mong Kok, it houses over 200 shops catering predominantly to youth fashion. The mall’s unique maze-like design allows you to ascend or descend levels by circling the mall, offering a unique shopping experience. Of course, there’s also a long escalator if you prefer a more straightforward route. With numerous renowned restaurants, it’s a great place for a shopping break. Conveniently, you can get there by stopping at the Mong Kok MTR station.
4. Olympian City
Olympian City is another large shopping destination in Kowloon, housing over 280 shops. Spanning across three sections – Olympian City 1, 2, and 3 – the majority of the shops are located in Olympian City 2. Here, you’ll find a plethora of renowned fashion, beauty, sports, and healthcare brands. Its close proximity to several MTR stations – Olympic Station, Mong Kok Station, and Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station – makes it easily accessible.
Street Food Hunting
5. Walk along Sai Yeung Choi, Dundas, Soy Street
No visit to Mong Kok is complete without indulging in the local street food. As you walk through the bustling streets of Sai Yeung Choi, Dundas, and Soy, you should have your appetite increased by the sights and smells of numerous food stalls.
One of the must-try snacks is stinky tofu, a fermented tofu dish with a strong odor but a surprisingly mild taste. The minced fish-stuffed eggplants are also a delightful treat for seafood lovers. Don’t forget to also sample traditional Hong Kong-style snacks such as fish balls and fish siu mai. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking as you continue exploring the vibrant streets of Mong Kok.
Immerse in Cultural Sightseeing
6. Goldfish Market
One of the unique attractions in Mong Kok is the Goldfish Market located on Tung Choi Street between Mong Kok Road and Nullah Road. The market gets its name from the abundant goldfish available for sale, which are believed to bring prosperity in Chinese culture. You can take a stroll there while watching ornamental fish sold in aquariums and plastic bags. There are also stores selling other pets like cats, dogs, lizards, tortoises, and frogs. However, the animals are placed inside tiny spaces so it can be quite uncomfortable as well, especially if you love animals.
7. Flower Market Road
For nature lovers, a stroll down Flower Market Road is a must. This aromatic street is filled with shops selling cut flowers, potted plants, seeds, bulbs, and exotic orchids. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, the beautiful displays and the sweet scent of fresh flowers make for a pleasant walk.
8. Bird Market
Just a short walk from the Goldfish Market is also a lively street full of colorful birds. Experience the local culture at the Bird Market, where you’ll find a lively street filled with the chirping of birds. Here, many colorful and beautiful birds are for sale.
9. Lui Seng Chun – Shop for Herbal Tea
Lui Seng Chun, a declared monument, is a charming hybrid of Chinese-Western architectural styles. In the era before air conditioning, its deep verandahs facilitated indoor-outdoor living. Today, you can visit the herbal tea shop and exhibition on the ground floor, where you can learn about traditional Chinese medicine and enjoy a refreshing cup of herbal tea.
10. Temple Street Night Market
Temple Street Night Market is one of the most famous market in Hong Kong. Though it is technically not in Mong Kok, it is only a short walk or 2 MTR stops away from Mong Kok. There, you can find jade, clothes, teaware and even electronic gadgets. Or, you can have your fortune told. If you’re feeling hungry, the market has affordable street food and seafood.
Tip: Just like the Ladies Market, always look out for your belongings in crowded markets.