Temple Street Night Market attracts locals and visitors from around the world and is one of the most iconic experiences in Hong Kong. Once dubbed the “poor man’s nightclub”, this night market has occupied five blocks of the city centre for more than a century. Its stalls, vendors and fortune tellers will provide many evenings of entertainment.
Kitsch banners, local characters and brightly coloured lights provide as much visual stimulation as a trip to the theatre. Look on as elderly men play games of chess and listen to the frenzied haggling going on between vendors and buyers. Even if you’re not looking to buy, a visit to Temple Street is worth it for the atmosphere.
Sometimes referred to as the Men’s Market for its wide collection of male clothing, Temple Street Night Market actually sells just about everything. Look for affordable electronic items, pieces of jade, fascinating antiques and bargain-priced souvenirs as you move between the stalls.
See what your future holds as a tarot reader, Chinese astrologist, palm reader or a tiny bird pulling cards from a pack suggests what may lay before you in life. The mysticism of the market is one of its most powerful attractions.
Step into one of the Cantonese Opera tents that are scattered throughout the market. Watch as opera troupes practise and socialise at the market, a tradition that has been going on for decades.
Try some local cuisine. Hearty claypots full of rice or noodles are a great way to refuel, giving you a chance to go and explore the nearby bird and flower markets. The market is named after the Tin Hau Temple, which can be found on the street and makes for a fascinating cultural excursion.
The Temple Street Night Market is open from late afternoon every day of the year. The Yau Ma Tei and Jordan train stations are located nearby. It’s free to browse the market.
