Mong Kok, which in Cantonese means ‘prosperous corner’, truly lives up to its name. It’s one of the liveliest areas in Hong Kong, filled with bustling street markets, cool places to eat, and lots of shops to explore.
From seeking out souvenirs in the ladies market to having a “free meal” at So Boring, here is our list of the 10 best things to do in Mong Kok.
1. Wander along Sai Yeung Choi Street
Sai Yeung Choi is a bustling pedestrian street packed with shops, malls, and restaurants. Here, you can find almost anything you need, from international cosmetics like Innisfree from Korea to high-tech electronics. Local stores like Fortress and Broadway offer the latest gadgets, but you can also discover great deals at smaller shops tucked away in office buildings. Don’t miss out on trying local delicacies such as Taiwanese fried chicken and Hong Kong stir-fried noodles at the street stalls and restaurants along the way.
2. Shop at Temple Street Night Market
If you’re eager for a shopping spree in Mong Kok, the Temple Street Night Market is a must-visit. It’s one of the top spots for a satisfying dose of retail therapy in the area. Whether you’re into fashion or food, this market offers it all at pocket-friendly prices.
Situated close to Tin Hau temple, this lively night market is perfect for scoring affordable souvenirs, trinkets, clothing, electronics, and more. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and excitement of shopping under the stars while exploring the diverse offerings this market has to offer.
3. Shop at the Ladies Market
Mong Kok is famous in Hong Kong for its unique markets, and shopping at the ladies market is definitely one of the best things to do in Mong Kok.
The Ladies Market, with over 100 stalls, is a favorite among tourists. You can find all sorts of cheap souvenirs and accessories here, and if you’re good at haggling, you can get even better deals.
The market runs along Tung Choi Street for about 1 kilometer. It’s called the Ladies Market because it mainly sells women’s clothes and accessories.
4. Treat yourself to new kicks on Sneakers Street
Known as Sneakers Street, the southern part of Fa Yuen Street is packed with shoe shops. It’s where you can find the hottest styles, along with rare and limited-edition shoes from big brands like Nike, Adidas, and New Balance. Besides sneakers, there are also many stores selling sports clothing, like basketball jerseys and other gear. It’s a must-visit for fashionistas who love sports.
5. Discover street art at Hong Kong Wall of Fame
Tucked away in Argyle Street, Hong Kong, there’s a narrow, hidden alley that stands out from the crowd. While it might be off the beaten path, if you’re someone who loves colors, vibrancy, and has a passion for art and creativity, this spot in Mong Kok is a must-visit.
Stretching for two blocks, this alley is adorned with extraordinary street art and graffiti covering its walls. It’s the perfect place for a delightful walking tour, immersing yourself in the captivating world of urban artistry.
6. Enjoy street food
Mong Kok is famous for its yummy street food, offering lots of Chinese and Cantonese treats. You’ll find all sorts of tasty options like meat, tofu, and seafood at different stalls around the area.
Make sure to try authentic dishes like mixed beef intestine stew, stinky tofu, minced fish-stuffed eggplants, and grilled scallion dim sum. It’s a must-do experience to enjoy the delicious food in Mong Kok.
7. Have a ‘free’ meal at So Boring
On the outskirts of Mong Kok, there’s a unique place called So Boring. It’s not just a restaurant but a community experiment run by friends. At night, they serve vegetarian food and aim to bring people together without focusing on money.
At So Boring, you grab your own utensils, stools, and tables. They have a pay-what-you-like menu with around six to eight dishes, like curry rice and ramen. After eating, you pay whatever you think is fair or whatever you can afford.
They also have a community fridge for sharing food and a bookshelf for exchanging books. It’s a friendly place where everyone is welcome.
8. Watch birds in Yuanpu Street Bird Park
Near the Flower Market in Mong Kok lies the Yuanpu Street Bird Park, a hidden treasure. It’s a unique place where colorful birds are bought and sold. Local residents bring their own birds in cages to trade.
You can also find bird food, cages, and a variety of adorable bird species here. The street is filled with cages, creating a vibrant atmosphere, and the sweet chirping of the birds adds to the charm of the scene.
9. Shop til you drop at Langham Place Shopping Mall
In the heart of Mong Kok stands Langham Place, a massive 15-storey mall spread across more than 56,000 square meters. It’s conveniently connected to the Mong Kok MTR and boasts a food court, high-fashion brands, and a cinema.
As you explore, you’ll find boutique shops on the upper floors and international brands below. After your shopping adventure, recharge at Bistro Bloom steakhouse or relax at Sky Bar, both situated on the top floor.
Langham Place is as stylish as the boutiques it houses, with chic interior design and a glass observation deck on the top floor offering stunning views of Mong Kok.
10. Buy affordably priced cameras and equipment at Sim City Mall
Sim City is a really cool shopping complex filled with lots of camera and equipment stores. It’s a straightforward spot where you can find pretty much everything you need for photography, and the prices are really competitive too.
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