Where to Get the Best Bargains in Hong Kong

Shopping in Hong Kong can be an intimidating proposition for your wallet. Everyone who is new to Hong Kong goes through the motions of a few bad bargains and the panic that ensues. So how does one fulfill the urges of the raging shopaholic that lies hidden in all of us, while not breaking the bank?

Here is a list of the best places to quench your thirst for a shopping spree in Hong Kong that will be easy on your purse strings.

The lanes – Queens Road Central:

More specifically we are referring to the Li Yuen Streets – East and West. Incidentally these streets house one of the oldest oriental street markets in Central Hong Kong. You will find them located bang opposite where Zara stands as of now (things change really fast in this mega city). When you reach there make sure you are carrying enough and have enough time to sort through the many shops and street style stalls that will give you an exhaustive variety of goods to choose ranging from kiddie wear to oriental knick knacks.

If you are taking the MTR then Central Station, Exit C would be your ideal stop.

The Ladies Market, Mong Kok:

The Ladies market is an important tourist haunt in Hong Kong. This is an ideal spot to spend a leisurely shopping afternoon. The crowded market place spreads over a kilometer of road typically lined with flea market styled stalls. Here you will get everything from knock off bags, clothes, shoes, children’s clothes and other miscellanea. Be sure to bargain hard to get the best prices and come back with your shopping bags full!

If you are getting there via the MTR you need to get to Mong Kok station and take Exit E2.

Cheung Sha Wan Road – Sham Shui Po

Just a couple of MTR stops ahead of Mong Kok is the shopping area of Sham Shui Po. This is a great place if you are a fashionista with clothes on your mind. Here you will find all sorts of garments, fabrics and materials. There are scores of clothes stores and boutiques where you will get variety ranging from casual street wear to formal dresses.

Get there by the MTR and take Exit C1 at Sham Shui Po. Keep in mind that besides Cheung Sha Wan Road Apliu Street and Kweilin Street and almost the entire area is a treasure trove of bargains.

Stanley Market, Stanley:

Stanley Market can quite easily be described as the queen of street markets in Hong Kong. This quaint market is located in the vintage village of Stanley on the island’s south coast. It is a popular stop for locals, expats and tourists alike. The market has a great selection of branded and non-branded clothes for children and adults, linens, accessories, jewelry, swim-wear and a selection of leather bags. Since it is a tourist hotspot prices may be a little steep but definitely worth it if you have strong bargaining skills. Stanley is a perfect way to spend your time shopping followed by a beer and a relaxed lunch by the seaside promenade.

You can get there by taxi, or by bus numbers 6, 6A, 6X, 66 or 260 from Exchange Square, Central.

Jardine’s Crescent, Causeway Bay:

In the heart of Hong Kong island’s busiest shopping district you will find Jardine’s Crescent nestled between the high rises and towering malls. Jardine’s Crescent is a roadside market that’s great for clothing, accessories and a lot more.

The best way to get here is to take the MTR to Causeway Bay station, take exit F and walk a few steps to get to the market.

If you are more comfortable with shopping in department stores, check out the following names:

Cotton On, for cheap and casual styles for kids and adults.

Uniqlo, a great place for practical attire to suit all seasons.

H&M, a name synonymous with great clothing at affordable prices.

Happy shopping, mamas!