Brief information on Temple Street Night Market  

Temple Street Night Market-Hong Kong: Bargain Tourism by Night

Hong Kong, being the Southern gateway to China and China’s bridge to the world (in an historical, commercial sense), has long been a fascinating and almost obligatory starting point to the East in general, and China in particular.

In order to get a flavour of Hong Kong’s unique, cosmopolitan flavour, Temple Street Night Market is a good introduction to Hong Kong, introducing Hong Kong by night (a truly spectacular experience), Chinese bargaining culture (unique, fun and a good way to practise your Cantonese or Mandarin, as well as pick up some bargain gifts), and delicious street food to sate the ravenous appetite that shopping can stimulate!

The market is sometimes known as Men’s Street, as it is very popular for men’s fashions. The market typically starts at around 2 PM, but is always at its liveliest after dusk. The market is colourfully lit, and houses more than 100 stalls, selling a wide variety of goods, such as clothing and shoes, alongside antiques and many cheap second-hand goods. There are many shops hidden behind the actual market, and these shops are often the best place to buy quality goods-this feature is one of the unique aspects of the market. I particularly enjoyed chatting to the local vendors whilst I perused the goods with my family.

The market has often been portrayed on film, perhaps most notably in The Queen of Temple Street (1990), and The Price of Temple Street (1992). The market was used to symbolise public life in Hong Kong at this time.

There are also many old Chinese Medicine clinics in and around the market and they use Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat a wide variety of conditions. Those with a fascination for herbal medicine will find much of interest here.

One of the highlights of our evening was dinner at one of the small outside restaurants. The cuisine in and around the market is justifiably renowned, and offers a wide range of local delicacies. The Hot Pot is a particular delight, as is as cheap as it is delicious.

Being one of Hong Kong’s principal attractions, the market can easily be reached by taxi. It is also serving by MTR, the nearest stations being Jordan and Yau Ma Tei.

So, relax, remember to smile and allow yourself to open up to the delights of Hong Kong by night. You might just find a great-and unique- bargain. However, the overall experience will stay with you far longer than the momentary thrill.

*You can download the bilingual note to show it to a taxi driver or someone else to find your way to Temple Street Night Market if you plan to visit Temple Street Night Market and have language problems.