Sham Shui Po
Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
See a more authentic side of Hong Kong in the vibrant working-class district of Sham Shui Po. Located in Kowloon, this district welcomes visitors and locals to shop for a wide variety of goods at bargain prices, enjoy one of the many traditional local eateries, check out the burgeoning art scene, and to go off the beaten path.
The Basics
Many visitors come to Sham Shui Po to shop. Those looking for electronics or video games should check out the Apliu Street Flea Market or the Golden Computer Arcade. Browse for toys at the Fook Wing Street Market, or for fabric and clothing on Cheung Sha Road Fashion Street. Foodies will have plenty of options to try local favorites like dim sum, noodles, roast goose, and all manner of street food. This neighborhood is also home to the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant, Tim Wan Ho, where you should expect a long line.
The best way to experience Sham Shui Po is on foot. Take a guided walking tour to see the area’s highlights and hidden gems. Sightseeing tours include other Kowloon attractions like Wong Tai Sin Temple or the street markets of Mongkok, or Hong Kong Island attractions like Victoria Peak and Man Mo Temple.
Things to Know Before You Go
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk.
Buyer beware; not all goods sold here will be genuine.
Bring cash as not all vendors take credit cards.
Try your hand at bargaining for better prices.
Keep an eye on your belongings, because there are pickpockets in the area.
How to Get There
Sham Shui Po is located in Kowloon. Take the MTR to Sham Shui Po, Nam Cheong, or Cheung Sha Wan stations. A number of buses and minibuses also stop nearby, including bus no. 112, 117, 170, and 286.
When to Get There
Most shops and markets in Sham Shui Po open by 11am, though sometimes places open later on Sunday and public holidays. Street art fans may want to start exploring early, before stores open, as some of the artwork is on the store gates or shutters.
Street Art in Sham Shui Po
The 2016 HKWalls art festival was held in Sham Shui Po, which saw more than 40 artists from 17 countries place their artwork around the neighborhood. The most famous is mural on the Man Fung Building by Spanish street artist Okuda San Miguel, but there are plenty of other pieces all around, often on the walls and shutters of various shops. Download the HK Urban Canvas app for a map of the artworks.
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