Cat Street Hong Kong
Discover Hong Kong's treasure trove on Cat Street, a bustling market brimming with antiques, art, and unique vintage finds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better selection
Cat Street Hong Kong
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better selection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Hong Kong's treasure trove on Cat Street, a bustling market brimming with antiques, art, and unique vintage finds.
"A treasure hunter's paradise where every stall holds a potential discovery!"
💰 Haggle with a Smile
Don't be afraid to negotiate prices; it's part of the fun! Start lower than you're willing to pay.
🚶♀️ Explore Sheung Wan
Wander beyond Cat Street into Sheung Wan for more vintage shops and art galleries.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Antique Alley Finds
Upper Lascar Row
Discover vintage treasures, traditional Chinese art, and unique collectibles. Perfect for souvenir hunters!
Art & Craft Stalls
Cat Street Market
Browse handmade crafts, quirky art pieces, and decorative items. A feast for the eyes!
Ceramics and Decor
Sheung Wan area
Find beautiful new and vintage ceramics, home decor, and unique decorative pieces.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hunt on Cat Street
Timing is Key for Treasures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Haggle with a Smile
Don't be afraid to negotiate prices; it's part of the fun! Start lower than you're willing to pay.
🚶♀️ Explore Sheung Wan
Wander beyond Cat Street into Sheung Wan for more vintage shops and art galleries.
📸 Capture the Vibe
This street is incredibly photogenic! Get your camera ready for unique shots.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and browsing, so wear comfy shoes.
Where to go thrifting in HK
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Haggle with a Smile
Don't be afraid to negotiate prices; it's part of the fun! Start lower than you're willing to pay.
🚶♀️ Explore Sheung Wan
Wander beyond Cat Street into Sheung Wan for more vintage shops and art galleries.
📸 Capture the Vibe
This street is incredibly photogenic! Get your camera ready for unique shots.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and browsing, so wear comfy shoes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cat Street for its incredible variety of unique antiques, art, and vintage finds, offering a true treasure hunt experience. While the lively atmosphere and potential for great deals are highlights, some find the crowds overwhelming and the quality of items can vary, requiring a keen eye.
"A very surreal street market with lots of Cold War and Cantonese film memorabilia. There’s a wide variety of things to look at, some of the shops are hidden away but boast a large stock whilst some of the street stalls are a bit repetitive. Come around midday for the best experience. Make sure to haggle for the best prices. Most places will obviously only take cash so be prepared. We had a fun time here overall!"
George Brand
"Cat street is one of the historic local markets of Hong Kong whose importance has been recognised and protected today. Its core are the stalls that sell Hong Kong historically themed trinkets mostly like jade pendants, foo dogs and so on. However many of the stools have second hand objects for sale that are a fascinating glimpse in Hong Kong past. Past the market stalls are shops that sell much higher quality historical goods that come from all over issue that come at a much higher cost than objects on the stalls. Be aware this market is open so be prepared for the sun, heat and rain when you go."
Rik
"Need a traditional souvenir that's the place to be .
A few steps below man mo temple
A pedestrian street rare in hk .
public toilet on the steps lower.
Antiques,not antiques, 2nd hand , a few copies.. on.the adjacent steps an amazing boutique sales smaller item . art deco pre war 50s 70s collectors from glasses to robots 70s round tv ceiling light a step in time for a short moment.
.chill bar and cafe, tattoo shop ,
*my favorite tips a the and if the street go down a few steps granny as we call older lady (Popo) sales 2nd hand luggage delsay samsonite polo rimowa elle .....she is lovely but negotiate like a pro ."
Rudy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cat Street, also known as Upper Lascar Row, is easily accessible via the MTR. Take the Island Line to Sheung Wan Station and use Exit A2. From there, it's a short walk uphill towards Hollywood Road, and you'll find the entrance to the street.
Yes, Cat Street is located in the vibrant Sheung Wan district, close to Hollywood Road, Man Mo Temple, and the PMQ design hub. It's a great addition to a day exploring Central and Sheung Wan.
Taxis are readily available in Hong Kong. You can ask your driver to take you to 'Upper Lascar Row' or 'Cat Street' in Sheung Wan. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.
Walking is the best way to explore Cat Street and its surroundings. The streets can be narrow and hilly, so comfortable footwear is essential.
The Man Mo Temple, one of Hong Kong's oldest temples, is a significant landmark located a short walk from Cat Street. Hollywood Road, known for its art galleries, is also nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Cat Street is an open-air market, and there are no admission fees. You can wander freely and browse the stalls.
Most vendors on Cat Street operate from around 10 AM to 6 PM daily. However, hours can vary, and some stalls may close earlier or stay open later, especially on weekends.
Weekdays generally offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, allowing for better negotiation. Weekends are livelier but can be quite busy.
It's best to carry cash, as many vendors on Cat Street primarily accept cash payments. Some larger antique shops might accept cards, but it's not guaranteed.
There are no booking requirements to visit Cat Street. It's a public street market accessible to everyone.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Cat Street is famous for its antiques, vintage items, traditional Chinese art, calligraphy, ceramics, jade, coins, and quirky souvenirs. You can find both old and newly produced items. +1
Absolutely! Cat Street is an excellent place to find unique and distinctive gifts that you won't find in typical souvenir shops. Look for handcrafted items or vintage pieces. +1
Consider small antique trinkets, decorative ceramics, unique art pieces, or vintage Chinese accessories. These make for memorable and authentic Hong Kong souvenirs. +1
Yes, bargaining is expected and part of the shopping experience on Cat Street. Don't hesitate to negotiate for a better price, but always be respectful.
While Cat Street has a wide variety, look for stalls specializing in jewelry, watches, or small decorative items. You might find vintage rings or necklaces among the general antique offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, Cat Street is incredibly photogenic with its colorful stalls, eclectic mix of items, and bustling atmosphere. It offers unique visual opportunities.
Early mornings on weekdays can offer softer light and fewer people, making for cleaner shots. However, the vibrant energy of the afternoon can also yield great photos.
Generally, there are no strict restrictions on photography for personal use. However, always be mindful of vendors and ask permission before taking close-up shots of their merchandise or if you plan to use photos commercially.
You can photograph the diverse array of antiques, vintage items, street scenes, vendors at work, and the general vibrant street life. Look for interesting textures and colors.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wider street scenes and details. A prime lens with a wide aperture can be great for low-light conditions or isolating subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🛍️ Bargain Hunters & Souvenir Seekers
Don't just stick to the main street; explore the smaller stalls and adjacent alleys for hidden gems. The thrill of finding a special item at a great price is what makes Cat Street so rewarding for bargain hunters.
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse range of traditional Chinese art, calligraphy, and unique handcrafted pieces. Even if you're not buying, the visual feast alone is worth the visit. Consider visiting on a weekday morning for softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Antiques and Collectibles
Redditors often mention finding interesting vintage accessories, including jewelry and decorative items, making it a prime spot for those seeking something beyond the ordinary. The sheer variety means you could spend hours sifting through the offerings, uncovering hidden gems. Remember to inspect items carefully for condition and authenticity.
When exploring, keep an eye out for stalls that specialize in specific categories. Some vendors might have a deeper knowledge of certain types of antiques, which can be helpful if you're looking for something particular. Don't be afraid to ask questions; many vendors are passionate about their wares.
Navigating the Market and Haggling
Cash is king on Cat Street, as most vendors operate on a cash-only basis. It's advisable to carry enough Hong Kong dollars to make your purchases. While some larger antique shops might accept credit cards, it's not a guarantee, so be prepared.
Beyond the main stretch of Upper Lascar Row, the surrounding streets in Sheung Wan also host smaller vintage shops and art galleries. Exploring these adjacent areas can lead to even more unique discoveries and a broader understanding of the local art and antique scene.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit