Oriental Plaza Johannesburg
A vibrant indoor bazaar in Fordsburg, Johannesburg, offering incredible deals on fabrics, clothing, spices, and more. A true shopper's paradise!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier shopping
Oriental Plaza Johannesburg
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier shopping
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant indoor bazaar in Fordsburg, Johannesburg, offering incredible deals on fabrics, clothing, spices, and more. A true shopper's paradise!
"Discover the magic of The Oriental Plaza and go from Good to Gorgeous."
🎯 Haggle for the Best Price
Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, especially for clothing and fabrics. It's part of the shopping experience!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes to explore all the shops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fabric and Fashion Finds
Various shops throughout the plaza
Discover a vast array of fabrics, from silks to cottons, and a wide selection of ready-to-wear clothing, including traditional Indian attire and modern fashion.
Spice Emporium
Akhalwaya's Family Spice Blenders
Stock up on aromatic spices and herbs that add depth to any dish. Expert advice available for the perfect blend.
Tailored Suits and Dresses
Various tailors and boutiques
Get custom-made suits or find affordable wedding dresses and evening wear, often with alteration services.
Samoosa Delights
Food stalls and eateries
Enjoy delicious and affordable samoosas, a popular snack, perfect for a quick bite while exploring.
Planning Your Visit
Navigate the Bustling Plaza
Best for Bargain Hunters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Haggle for the Best Price
Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, especially for clothing and fabrics. It's part of the shopping experience!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes to explore all the shops.
💰 Carry Cash for Deals
While some shops accept cards, cash can often secure better prices and is preferred by many vendors.
🌶️ Explore the Spice Shops
Discover a world of flavors at the spice vendors; ask for recommendations for your cooking needs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Haggle for the Best Price
Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, especially for clothing and fabrics. It's part of the shopping experience!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes to explore all the shops.
💰 Carry Cash for Deals
While some shops accept cards, cash can often secure better prices and is preferred by many vendors.
🌶️ Explore the Spice Shops
Discover a world of flavors at the spice vendors; ask for recommendations for your cooking needs.
📍 Ask for Tailor Recommendations
If you're looking for custom tailoring, ask around for reputable tailors within the plaza.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Oriental Plaza for its incredible variety and affordability, calling it a must-visit for bargain hunters. While some find the bustling atmosphere overwhelming, most appreciate the unique shopping experience and the chance to find great deals on everything from fabrics to spices. The food stalls, especially for samoosas, are a popular highlight. +1
"Whether you're revisiting cherished childhood memories or creating new ones with your kids, The Oriental Plaza is a sensory journey worth taking. This iconic spot is like stepping into the bustling markets of India or Pakistan — vibrant, colorful, and full of character.
From the moment you walk in, you're immersed in a world of authentic Indian and Eastern culture. Stalls overflow with everything from spices and traditional foods to household items, ornate decorations, and vibrant clothing — from elegant saris to everyday wear. It's a one-stop destination whether you're shopping for a special occasion or simply browsing.
A word of advice: be prepared to walk. The plaza is large and there's a lot to explore, but it’s worth every step.
Now for the real treat — the food. Outside Entrance 2, do not miss the mini doughnuts – crispy, warm, and just the right amount of sweet. Inside, grab a plate of fresh samosas or a chilled, indulgent falooda drink — rich, rose-scented, and wonderfully refreshing. It’s a food lover’s paradise.
Whether you're here for the nostalgia, the shopping, or the flavours, the Oriental Plaza offers a unique cultural experience you won’t find anywhere else in Johannesburg.
A must-visit – again and again."
Vaash Riv
"Excellent place for good deals like Moosa Fabrics for exquisite material for evening ware to curtains and other materials at Moosa "help my krap" or Docrats.
You can buy honey, sauces, and more in the dome, or samosas at the food court.
Orient jewellers for your watch repairs and battery replacement.
There is a great variety of other stores supplying clothing, shoes, materials, hardware, jewellery, spices, pot and pans and so much more.
A great place to spend your day and get a great deal on your purchases.
We highly recommend the Oriental Plaza in Fordsburg."
Martin De Villiers
"Great place. It is really clean, and they offer tasty samosas from their local shops. I just wish there was a better directory to find shops"
Mbali Neo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Oriental Plaza is located in Fordsburg, Johannesburg. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available. Many visitors also use ride-sharing services or taxis. Some brave souls walk from the CBD, but be aware of your surroundings.
While the Oriental Plaza itself is generally considered safe for shoppers, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially when entering and exiting the area. Avoid displaying valuables openly. +1
For a guided experience of Johannesburg's CBD, the Joburg Red Bus Tour is recommended, though it may not directly stop at the Plaza. For direct access, ride-sharing apps or private taxis are convenient options. +1
Yes, there is parking available at the Oriental Plaza, which is convenient for those driving to the location.
Yes, it's possible to walk from the Johannesburg CBD to the Oriental Plaza in Fordsburg, as one visitor did for breakfast. However, be mindful of safety and your route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter the Oriental Plaza. It's a public marketplace, and you can freely browse the shops.
The Oriental Plaza is typically open daily, including Sundays, though hours can vary slightly. It's best to check their official social media or website for the most up-to-date opening times.
There is no entrance fee to access the Oriental Plaza. You only pay for the items you purchase.
Yes, many shops in the Oriental Plaza offer alteration services, especially for clothing and wedding dresses. Some may even offer free alterations with a purchase.
No specific entry requirements are usually in place, beyond general public access. Just be prepared for a bustling shopping environment.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Products
The Oriental Plaza boasts a wide variety of shops selling fabrics, clothing (including traditional Indian wear, wedding dresses, and suits), jewelry, homeware, spices, perfumes, and more.
There are numerous fabric shops throughout the Oriental Plaza offering a diverse range of materials. Look for shops specializing in silks, cottons, and other textiles.
Yes, the Oriental Plaza is known for its affordable prices and the opportunity to haggle for deals on clothing, making it a great spot for budget-conscious shoppers.
Absolutely! Akhalwaya's Family Spice Blenders is a popular spot within the Plaza for a wide selection of high-quality spices and herbs.
Yes, you can find bridal shops and tailors in the Oriental Plaza that offer wedding dresses, often at competitive prices and with alteration services.
While the Plaza is more known for fabrics and clothing, there are some shops that offer curtains and home decor items. However, for a wider selection of linen, some suggest looking at Continental Linen.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Oriental Plaza offers a variety of food stalls and eateries, with samoosas being a popular highlight. You can also find other snacks and light meals.
Yes, you can have breakfast at the Oriental Plaza. One visitor enjoyed samoosas and coffee for breakfast after walking from the CBD.
While there are food stalls and smaller eateries, the Oriental Plaza is more of a market experience than a destination for formal restaurants. You can find quick bites and snacks.
Samoosas are a highly recommended treat at the Oriental Plaza, offering a delicious and affordable snack.
Yes, the food options at the Oriental Plaza are generally very affordable, making it a great place to grab a budget-friendly bite.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant colors, diverse textures, and bustling atmosphere of the Oriental Plaza can make for interesting photographic opportunities, capturing the essence of a local market.
Look for colorful fabric displays, spice stalls with vibrant hues, and candid shots of shoppers and vendors to capture the lively energy of the plaza.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, it's always respectful to ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals or their stalls.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm or a 35mm prime, would be suitable for capturing both wider scenes and details. Good low-light performance is also beneficial.
Yes, you can photograph the food stalls, especially the colorful displays of spices and snacks. Just be mindful of busy vendors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed family experience, focus on specific sections like the spice shops or fabric stores where you can engage with vendors. The open courtyards can offer a brief respite from the indoor bustle. It's a great place to introduce children to a vibrant market culture and find unique souvenirs.
💰 Budget Travelers
Instead of expensive souvenirs, you can find unique and affordable items here. For example, a few meters of beautiful fabric can be transformed into custom clothing back home, or a selection of aromatic spices can elevate your cooking. Even meals are budget-friendly, with delicious samoosas available for just a few rand.
👗 Fashion Enthusiasts
Beyond fabrics, the plaza is a great place to find trendy clothing, traditional Indian wear, and even wedding attire. Keep an eye out for unique pieces that you won't find in mainstream stores. The opportunity to negotiate prices adds to the thrill of the fashion hunt.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Fordsburg's Bazaar
The plaza's architecture itself tells a story, with its interconnected shops and bustling courtyards. It's a place where generations of families have built businesses, passing down traditions and expertise. For instance, the renowned Akhalwaya's Family Spice Blenders have been a staple, offering a vast array of spices that are essential to South African cuisine. Similarly, numerous tailors and clothing boutiques cater to diverse needs, from bespoke suits to wedding attire, often at prices that are hard to beat elsewhere.
Navigating the Oriental Plaza is an adventure in itself. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a lively, sometimes crowded, environment. While credit card facilities are available in many shops, carrying cash can often lead to better deals. The food stalls, particularly those serving delicious samoosas, offer a perfect respite for shoppers to refuel and soak in the atmosphere.
Tailoring and Bridalwear
Wedding dress shopping on a budget is also a significant draw. Many bridal boutiques within the plaza offer a wide selection of dresses, and the added benefit of in-house alterations can be a major cost-saver. Some shoppers have found that shops in the Plaza may offer free alterations with a purchase, making it an attractive option for brides-to-be.
When looking for specific tailors or bridal shops, it's worth asking for recommendations within the community or looking for shops with a long-standing presence. While the Plaza is known for its deals, quality is still paramount, especially for significant purchases like wedding attire or suits.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit