A stroll through the Haberdashery Street Market is a journey into the captivating street market culture of Hong Kong. Haberdashery Street Market is dedicated to all things related to clothing accessories. It’s part of the Sham Shui Po area of Kowloon, where almost every street focuses on different consumer goods. During the 1950s and 1960s the area was a center for textiles and manufacturing and the market keeps these traditions alive today.
Stores on Nam Cheong Street sell items at wholesale prices to both trade customers and the general public. You’ll find buttons, embroidered badges, ribbons, sequins and zippers of all colors, shapes and sizes. There are also fashion outlets packed floor to ceiling with Asian-style clothing at bargain prices. Some people come to pick up items to accessorize their clothes, while others place orders for tailor-made goods.
Yu Chau Street, affectionately known as Bead Street, is an addition to the market. The displays of buttons and ribbons here are a riot of color and make for excellent photo opportunities. For something different, visit the Sam Tai The and Pak Tail temples, which date back to 1898. Alternatively, escape the crowds at the Nam Cheong Sitting-out Area.
After exploring the market, make your way around the other street markets and retail districts in the area. The Apliu Street Market is the place to go for cheap new and second-hand electronics goods. Find streets that specialize in children’s toys, fabrics and gems. The Dragon Center has nine floors filled with shops, fast food restaurants and children’s entertainment.
The shops at the Haberdashery Street Market are open daily, although the opening hours of each business varies. Reach the market by using Hong Kong’s public buses and trains. The closest subway station to the market is Sham Shui Po.