Looking for something different to luxury malls and high street staples for your next shopping trip? Here’s where to shop in Hong Kong.
It’s no secret that this city is a shopper’s paradise. Yet while there are plenty of luxury malls and bargainous local market stalls, do you ever struggle trying to find something in between? Sure, there are the high street staples, but that’s where everyone and their mother shops. We’re not opposed to a good twinning moment, but wouldn’t it be nice to have some different options for a change?
If you’re looking to stray from the usual, and are keen to shop somewhere new, then head to these five lesser known shopping spots in Hong Kong.
Allied Plaza
Where to find it: Allied Plaza, 760 Nathan Road, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Getting there: Take the MTR to Prince Edward. Allied Plaza is to the right of Exit B2.
Hidden inside Allied Plaza is a labyrinth of tiny boutiques selling a range of clothing and accessories sourced from Japan and Korea. The quality varies from store to store, so you may have to spend some time sorting through to find what you’re after. But hey, that’s all part of the fun right? Prices typically range between $60 for tops and $300 for dresses and coats.
Kwai Chung Plaza
Where to find it: Kwai Chung Plaza, 11 Kwai Foo Road, Kwai Chung, New Territories, Hong Kong
Getting there: Take the MTR to Kwai Fong (not Kwai Chung!). Head to Exit D and Kwai Chung Plaza will be straight across the road.
Similar to Allied Plaza in terms of clothing options and prices, but with the added allure of some incredible street food! Seriously, the sushi options alone are worth the trip. The top floor also boasts a cluster of nail salons – and the ladies here are experts at kawaii nail art. If you’re worried about your nail requests being lost in translation, make sure to bring lots of pictures! A gel manicure with nail art will typically set you back between $300 and $400.
D2 Place
Where to find it: D2 Place, 9 Cheung Yee Street, Lai Chi Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Getting there: Take the MTR to Lai Chi Kok. D2 Place is (as its name suggests!) at exit D2.
As the newest shopping spot on our list, D2 Place is fully equipped with all the comforts of your standard Hong Kong shopping mall (read: nice bathrooms and shops with actual changing rooms). Billed as an “artistic-cultural” landmark, D2 Place serves as a social hub to promote local culture. As such, most of the stores here are owned by up-and-coming Hong Kong artisans and designers. This is the place to go for artsy handmade gifts and vintage-inspired fashion. What’s more, D2 Place regularly holds a weekend market concept where you can find heaps of stalls run by smaller shops and local entrepreneurs.
Island Beverly
Where to find it: Island Beverly, 1 Great George Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Getting there: Take the MTR to Causeway Bay and head to exit D1. Island Beverly is directly opposite SOGO.
Just a hop, skip and jump away from the well-heeled streets of Fashion Walk lies Island Beverly. Featuring four floors of clothing boutiques selling local and Asian fashion, the prices here are a little higher than the likes of Allied Center and Kwai Chung Plaza. That being said, I think the quality of design is better, with more emphasis on vintage and Japanese goods. It’s definitely worth a wander before embarking on an Ikea binge!
Rise Shopping Arcade
Where to find it: Rise Shopping Arcade, 5-11 Granville Circuit, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Getting there: Hidden in plain sight, Rise Shopping Arcade sits on the Granville Circuit in Tsim Sha Tsui. Head along Granville Road and take the side street opposite Gong Cha. Turn the corner and it’s the first building on your left.
Don’t let its back alley location and dated building aesthetics fool you, Rise Shopping Arcade might just be one of the coolest places in Hong Kong to get your shop on. Think: quirky street fashion meets designer consignment boutiques. Many up and coming Hong Kong designers have set up store here, and given the range of goodies on offer, the price range is varied – though you’re sure to find something to suit every price point.
Sassy Tips:
- Know your measurements! Most stores won’t have any changing rooms, and you may find it difficult to return items which don’t fit properly. Most shopkeepers are happy to lend you a tape measure to help you double check sizes.
- Apart from D2 Place which opens at 10am, most shops won’t open until after 1pm. As if we needed another excuse for a lie in.
- The smaller boutiques will typically only accept cash or EPS, so make sure you come prepared.
Featured image via Getty. Image 1 courtesy of Wiki Commons, image 2 courtesy of D2 Place via Facebook