As an expat or digital nomad living in Sha Tin, you’re in for a cultural treat when it comes to shopping and experiencing local markets. Sha Tin is not only a bustling residential area but also a hub for various markets that offer everything from fresh produce to unique crafts. Whether you’re looking to fill your pantry, decorate your home, or find that perfect gift, Sha Tin’s markets have something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best markets in the area that you should definitely check out.
Sha Tin Wet Market
Location: Sha Tin Centre Street, Sha Tin
Type of Market: Wet Market
Open: Daily, 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sha Tin Wet Market is a traditional Hong Kong market where locals go for the freshest seafood, meat, fruits, and vegetables. The bustling atmosphere and the array of fresh produce make it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience local life. It’s also a great place to practice your Cantonese bargaining skills!
We Recommend: Try the fresh seafood, particularly the live fish, which can be selected and then prepared to your liking by the vendors.
Lek Yuen Street Market
Location: Lek Yuen Street, Sha Tin
Type of Market: Street Market
Open: Daily, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Lek Yuen Street Market is a vibrant street market known for its affordable clothing, accessories, and household items. It’s a great place to find bargains and to experience the local street market culture.
We Recommend: Look out for traditional Chinese clothing and accessories, which make for unique souvenirs or gifts.
City One Shatin Market
Location: City One, Sha Tin
Type of Market: Mixed Market
Open: Daily, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Located within the City One residential area, this market offers a mix of goods, including clothing, electronics, and household items. It’s a convenient one-stop-shop for residents and visitors alike.
We Recommend: Check out the electronics section for some good deals on gadgets and accessories.
Shing Mun River Promenade Flea Market
Location: Along Shing Mun River, Sha Tin
Type of Market: Flea Market
Open: Weekends, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
This weekend flea market is a favorite among locals and expats for its second-hand goods, vintage items, and handcrafted products. It’s a great place to find unique treasures and enjoy the scenic river view.
We Recommend: Look for vintage watches and jewelry, which are often authentic and come at a fraction of the price you’d pay in stores.
HomeSquare
Location: 138 Sha Tin Rural Committee Road, Sha Tin
Type of Market: Furniture and Home Decor Mall
Open: Daily, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
HomeSquare is a large shopping mall specializing in furniture and home decor. With a wide range of local and international brands, it’s the perfect place for expats and digital nomads looking to furnish their living spaces.
We Recommend: Explore the selection of traditional Chinese furniture for a piece that combines both style and cultural flair.
Sha Kok Street Market
Location: Sha Kok Street, Sha Tin
Type of Market: Local Street Market
Open: Daily, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
This local market is smaller than the Sha Tin Wet Market but offers a similar range of fresh produce and daily necessities. It’s less crowded, providing a more relaxed shopping experience.
We Recommend: Try the local snacks from the food vendors, such as fish balls and siu mai, for a quick and tasty bite.
Sha Tin Plaza
Location: 21-27 Sha Tin Centre Street, Sha Tin
Type of Market: Shopping Mall
Open: Daily, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sha Tin Plaza is a shopping mall with a variety of stores selling clothing, beauty products, and more. It’s a great place to escape the heat and enjoy some retail therapy.
We Recommend: Visit the beauty stores for Korean and Japanese skincare products that are popular and often hard to find elsewhere.
New Town Plaza
Location: 18 Sha Tin Centre Street, Sha Tin
Type of Market: Upscale Shopping Mall
Open: Daily, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
New Town Plaza is a large, upscale shopping mall with a wide range of international brands, a cinema, and numerous dining options. It’s a one-stop destination for entertainment, shopping, and eating out.
We Recommend: Don’t miss the seasonal decorations and events, especially during festivals like Chinese New Year and Christmas, which are a spectacle to behold.
Yuen Wo Road Bird Garden
Location: Yuen Wo Road, Sha Tin
Type of Market: Specialty Market
Open: Daily, 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
While not a traditional market, the Yuen Wo Road Bird Garden is a unique spot where bird enthusiasts gather to buy and sell birds, cages, and feed. It’s a colorful and fascinating place to visit, even if you’re not looking to buy a pet.
We Recommend: Admire the intricate designs of the birdcages, which are works of art in themselves and make for an interesting conversation piece.
These markets in Sha Tin offer a glimpse into the diverse shopping experiences available in Hong Kong. Whether you’re after fresh food, unique gifts, or just a taste of local life, you’ll find it in the bustling markets of Sha Tin.
