Stanley Market is one of the most popular open-air markets in Hong Kong, and has been for decades. Found on the back streets of the seaside town of Stanley, it’s not particularly big, but it does pack bags of character. Located on just two streets, it takes no more than an hour or less to tour the market, although there is much more to see in Stanley. The good news is that it is quite well covered, keeping both rain and sun at bay.
The market is often accused of being a tourist trap. That is a bit unfair. It certainly draws a lot of tourists, but that’s because Stanley is such a popular destination. What Stanely Market lacks are the bustling, cheeky vendors and passionate haggling from other Hong Kong markets. This is not a market for the locals, and it is mostly filled with chess sets, Chinese fanatics, and calligraphy; it is popular to have your name transcribed in Chinese characters.
It’s a bit clever, but that doesn’t mean it’s not fun. The prices aren’t a scam either – don’t expect to haggle any bargains here, but the prices are fair. The vendors here are more used to tourists, speak English well, and overall a good introduction to the traditional Chinese market. But make no mistake, this is not Sham Shui Po. It’s not even the ladies’ market.
Go to
- Souvenirs – This is a great place to pick up a set of ornamental toothpicks or Bruce Lee memorabilia. The quality is not high, but neither are the prices.
- An easy introduction to the Hong Kong markets. The vendors speak English, the atmosphere is not too rough and they fall down and you are not expected to haggle.
Don’t go for
- Bargains Prices here are a bit higher than in the downtown markets. Also, there is little chance of haggling.
- A true Hong Kong market. If you want to see a whole blood market with practical bargaining, then the Stanley market is not for you.
Where and when to go
The market is located on Stanley Market Road, Stanley, and is open from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The best time to go is in the morning before the sun actually begins to set and before the hordes of crowds. The market is also nice to visit just after lunch time.
What to buy
- Silk clothing
- Sportswear
- Hong Kong-themed souvenirs
- Chinese embroidery clothing and linen
- Chinese Calligraphy – One of the most popular purchases is to transcribe your English name into Chinese.
What else to see in Stanley
Stanley is one of the most popular day trips in Hong Kong. Just an hour from downtown, the beaches here are not the best in Hong Kong, but they are the easiest to reach. There are also many restaurants, cafes, and bars that stretch out onto the sidewalk, where you can enjoy some food and fun in the sun.
Keep an eye out for Stanley Barracks at the other end of the boardwalk. This British military building is one of the oldest in Hong Kong, dating back to 1844. It was moved brick by brick from central Hong Kong and now houses restaurants and cafes on its cool terraces.
