Cecelia ChangSearch up places to shop or eat in Hong Kong, names like Mong Kok, Central, and Causeway Bay are likely to pop up. But tucked away from the spotlight is an underrated gem that deserves just as much love: Sham Shui Po. Having explored this vibrant neighbourhood myself, I’ve rounded up my top picks in Sham Shui Po for foodies and shopping enthusiasts alike!
Also read: Hong Kong Foodie Bucket List: From Local Secret Hunts to Michelin-starred Dining
Places to go in Sham Shui Po
1. Ap Liu Street Flea Market
If you love treasure hunting, the Ap Liu Street Flea Market is a must-visit. Known as Hong Kong’s go-to spot for electronics and quirky finds, the stalls here sell everything from second-hand gadgets, phone accessories, and retro cameras to old vinyl records. As I walked along the street in the morning, I even noticed shopkeepers explaining TV boxes to curious customers.
TripZilla tip: I recommend visiting Ap Liu Street Flea Market in the late afternoon or evening, as many stalls weren’t opened yet when I went in the morning.
Address: 121 Kweilin St, Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong
2. 情迷相机 Ching Mi Camera
Tucked along Ap Liu Street, Ching Mi Camera is a paradise for photography lovers. The shop is packed with an impressive range of second-hand cameras — from classic film models to CCDs and DSLRs. Step inside and you’ll be amazed by the sheer number of cameras hanging around, though it’s wise to inspect them carefully for mould. Nearby, another popular stall, 福華相機, also comes highly recommended.
Address: 237號 Apliu St, Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong
3. Kung Wo Beancurd Factory
Foodies, assemble! One of the most popular eateries in Sham Shui Po, Kung Wo Beancurd Factory, is a must-visit. With more than six decades of history, Kung Wo is famous for its homemade soy products, from fresh soybean milk to silky tau fu fah (soy pudding). I also tried out the fragrant siu mai and silky smooth rice noodles (known affectionately as 细孖宝), which were so tasty!
Address: Hong Kong, Sham Shui Po, Pei Ho St, 118號號地下
4. Heritage of Mei Ho House
Fun fact: I actually discovered this museum via Google Maps when I was searching for places to go in Sham Shui Po. The Heritage of Mei Ho House is located between Shek Kip Mei and Sham Shui Po. This free-to-enter museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the everyday lives of Hong Kongers in decades past.
From learning about the quirky lingo used at Dai Pai Dongs (Hong Kong’s iconic open-air food stalls) to nostalgic playground equipment and childhood toys, you’ll be both entertained and enriched with knowledge.
On the other hand, the first floor of the museum takes visitors on a fascinating journey through the history of Hong Kong’s public housing estates (屋邨). Here, you can see how living spaces have evolved from the 1950s to the present day, with reconstructed units showcasing gradual improvements over the decades. The exhibition even showcases life-size furniture and is accompanied by fun sound effects like family conversations and the clatter of mahjong tiles.
It’s really an engaging and immersive way to experience Hong Kong’s social history and appreciate how far the city has come.
Address: 70 Berwick St, Pak Tin, Hong Kong
5. 雅俗共想 good bad creative
Good bad creative has become a beloved tourist spot, especially for those who want to shop for nostalgic trinkets, vintage finds, and creative postcards. Though the shop isn’t conspicuous, it has retro treasures and an adorable cat that will definitely draw you in. Inside, you’ll find shelves filled with nostalgic gems, from childhood toys and vintage posters to classic cups.
Address: Shop B1, 124 Nam Cheong St, Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong
Getting to Sham Shui Po
Reaching Sham Shui Po is a breeze thanks to Hong Kong’s efficient MTR system. Just hop on the red line and alight at Sham Shui Po Station. From there, choose the nearest exit to your destination. You’ll find that most of Sham Shui Po’s must-visit spots, like the ones mentioned, are all easily explored on foot!
Also read: An Urban Explorer’s Guide to The Best Places to Shop And Play in Hong Kong
Sham Shui Po may not be as polished as Central or as flashy as Causeway Bay, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a neighbourhood where tradition meets creativity, offering travellers a true taste of Hong Kong’s grassroots culture. For your next trip to Hong Kong, follow this Sham Shui Po guide and add it to your bucket list!
All images credited to Cecelia Chang.
