Hong Kong’s largest night market is located at Yau Matei and Jordan in Kowloon District and runs almost parallel to the west side of Nathan Road. The market gets its name from the Tin Hau Temple, which it divides into 2 parts from north to south.
Beginning in the 1920s, locals gathered in the shade of the large banyan tree at the front of the temple, which soon began to be filled by street vendors and local performers such as opera singers and martial arts students.
In 1968, the temple grounds were made available by the government for more vendors, and the area was divided into small trays each measuring 3′ x 4′. In March 1975, due to increased demand, the market was expanded to include the area of Nanjing Street, Ming Lane Street and the area around the Yau Ma Tei Public Library. Thus, today the market extends along both sides of Ting Hau Temple, the public square and Public Square Street.
Things to buy on Temple Street Night Market
The market is also known as the “men’s market” because it is aimed at male customers and offers a huge range including clothes, bags, lighters, watches, artwork, CDs and DVDs, toys, electrical goods, jade, shoes, household goods and souvenirs. It is customary here to haggle and prices are reduced by half afterwards.
In the part of the market from Public Square Street to Jordan Station you can find fortune-tellers who read palms and faces and Tarot cards, who offer a glimpse into the future for a small sum, as well as groups of Cantonese opera singers and, occasionally, Western singers and musicians.
There are also interesting stores on both sides of Temple Street, as well as stalls with local food, including dai pai dong, and there are cafes among the stores.
Opening hours
Opening hours: Stalls open from 2pm, but most open at 4pm as the market starts to flood. Most of the stalls close at 11:30-00:00. The market is closed on the first day of the Chinese New Year.
How to get to Temple Street Night Market
MTR Jordan or Yau Ma Tei subway stations. From Metro Station Jordan exit A, turn right along Jordan Road and take the third street right which is Temple Street.
The market starts about 150 meters down the street. From Yau Ma Tei Metro Station exit C, turn left along Minh Lane. The second street on the left will be Temple Street.
Read about another market in Hong Kong: Stanley Market.
