Hong Kong

They say the only way to get to know a place is to do what the locals do. When in Rome, scoot around on a Vespa and drink espresso. When in Hong Kong, shop. For most people in this city, shopping is a leisure activity, whether that means picking out a four-figure party dress, rifling through bins at an outlet, upgrading a cell phone, or choosing the freshest fish for dinner.

Shopping is so sacred that sales periods are calendar events, and most stores close on just three days a year—Christmas Day and the first two days of Chinese New Year. Imagine that: 362 days of unbridled purchasing. Opening hours are equally conducive to whiling your life away browsing the racks: all shops are open until 7 or 8 pm; many don't close their doors until midnight.

It's true that the days when everything in Hong Kong was mind-bogglingly cheap are over. It is still a tax-free port, so you can get some good deals. But it isn't just about the savings. Sharp contrasts and the sheer variety of experiences available make shopping here very different from back home.

You might find a bargain or two elbowing your way through a chaotic open-air market filled with haggling vendors selling designer knockoffs, the air reeking of the chou tofu ("stinky" tofu) bubbling at a nearby food stand. But then you could find a designer number going for half the usual price in a hushed marble-floor mall, the air scented by the designer fragrances of your fellow shoppers. What's more, in Hong Kong the two extremes are often within spitting distance of each other.

Needless to say, thanks to travelers like you running out of space in their suitcases, Hong Kong does a roaring trade in luggage. No need to feel guilty, though—shopping here is practically cultural research. All you're doing is seeing what local life is really like.

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  • 1. Chinese Arts & Crafts

    Central

    Visit this long-established mainland company to blitz through that tiresome list of presents in one fell swoop. It stocks a huge variety of well-priced clothing, porcelain, and giftware. In direct contrast to the thrill of digging through dusty piles at the open-air Jade Market, Chinese Arts & Crafts provides a clean, air-conditioned environment in which to shop for classic jade jewelry—and the prices aren't too outrageous. Other affordable, easily packable items include appliqué tablecloths and cushion covers or silk dressing gowns. There are four branches in Hong Kong, including this spacious shop in Pacific Place.

    88 Queensway, Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2523–3933
  • 2. IFC Mall

    Central

    A quick glance at the directory—Tiffany & Co., Kate Spade, Bvlgari, Chaumet—lets you know that the International Finance Centre isn't for the faint of pocket. Designer department store Lane Crawford chose to open its flagship store here, and J.Crew followed suit in 2014. Even the mall's cinema multiplex is special: the deluxe theaters have super-comfy seats with extra legroom and a wine bar for classy refreshments. If you finish your spending spree at sunset, go for a cocktail at Dear Lilly or LA RAMBLA by Catalunya, two posh spots with fabulous harbor views. The Hong Kong Airport Express station (with in-town check-in service) is under the mall, and the Four Seasons Hotel connects to it. Avoid the mall between 12:30 and 2, when it's flooded with lunching office workers from the two IFC towers.

    8 Finance St., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2295–3308
  • 3. Lane Crawford

    Central

    This prestigious western-style department store has been the favorite of local label lovers for years—not bad for a brand that started out as a makeshift provisions shop back in 1850. The massive flagship store in the IFC Mall (one of Hong Kong's four Lane Crawford locations) feels like a monument to fashion's biggest names, with exquisitely designed acres divided up into small gallery-like spaces for each designer. In addition to contemporary clothing, the phenomenal brand list covers everything from beauty to home ware.

    8 Finance St., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2118–3388
  • 4. Loom Loop

    Central

    Homegrown brand Loom Loop is known for its bold style and sustainable ethos. Made from a mixture of heritage Canton fabrics, sourced in Guangzhou, the collections tend to revolve around bright colors, cooling silks, and decidedly urban cuts. In addition to apparel, the brand also works with leftover textiles, such as denim and knitwear, to create upcycled accessories.

    35 Aberdeen St., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2548–7837
  • 5. Shanghai Tang

    Central

    Make your way past the perfumes, scarves, and silk-embroidered Chinese souvenirs to the second floor, where you'll find a rainbow of fabrics at your fingertips. In addition to the brilliantly hued—and expensive—silk and cashmere clothing, you'll see custom-made suits starting at around HK$30,000, including fabric. You can also have a cheongsam (a sexy slit-skirt silk dress with a Mandarin collar) made for around HK$10,000, including fabric. Ready-to-wear Mandarin suits are in the HK$15,000–HK$20,000 range. There are stores scattered across Hong Kong, including the airport's Terminal One.

    1 Duddell St., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2525–7333
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  • 6. Tai Kwun

    Central

    On the grounds of the 19th-century Central Police Station complex, Hong Kong's largest revitalization project to date, Tai Kwun debuted in 2018. It stretches across 38,750 square feet and hosts several restaurants, bars, art exhibitions, and local boutiques. Shopping here runs the gamut from traditional tailors like Yuen's Tailor to avant garde apparel by Harrison Wong. While you're here, check out the Heritage Storytelling Spaces. From the Central Magistry to the old prison, eight distinct areas transport you back in time.

    10 Hollywood Rd., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    3559–2600
  • 7. 10 Chancery Lane Gallery

    Central

    A visit here takes you behind the historic Central Police Station, where walls facing the gallery's distinctive space are still topped by broken glass (a common security measure). Since it opened in 2001, the white-walled gallery has spotlighted emerging artists from all over the world, with a primary focus on ones from the Asia Pacific area. Owner-curator Katie de Tilly has a particularly keen eye for photography, and the gallery often features the works of established names such as Vietnamese-American fine arts photographer Dinh Q. Lê and pioneering Chinese artist Wang Keping.

    10 Chancery La., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2810–0065

    Shop Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun.–Mon.
  • 8. A-Man Hing Cheong Co., Ltd.

    Central

    People often gasp at the very mention of A-Man Hing Cheong, in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. For some it symbolizes the ultimate in fine tailoring, with a reputation that extends back to its founding in 1898. For others it's the lofty prices that elicit a reaction. Regardless, this is a trustworthy source of European-cut suits, custom shirts, and excellent service.

    5 Connaught Rd., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2522–3336
  • 9. Altfield Gallery

    Central

    If only your entire home could be outfitted by Altfield. Established in 1980, the elegant gallery carries exquisite antique Chinese furniture, Asia-related maps and topographical prints, Southeast Asian sculpture, and decorative arts from around Asia, including silver and rugs. Altfield Interiors, on nearby Queen's Road, features a selection of larger furniture pieces, framed art, and contemporary home accessories.

    10 Chater Rd., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2537–6370
  • 10. Arch Angel Antiques

    Central

    Ask for Bonnie Groot, who will enthusiastically and knowledgeably guide you through the three floors of fine ceramics, furniture, ancestor portraits, and more. Across the road, the Groots have opened the Arch Angel Art Gallery, which specializes in contemporary Vietnamese and Southeast Asian art.

    53–55 Hollywood Rd., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2851–6848
  • 11. Ascot Chang

    Central

    This self-titled "gentleman's shirtmaker" makes it easy to find the perfect shirt, even if you could get a better deal in a less prominent shop. Ascot Chang has upheld exacting Shanghainese tailoring traditions in Hong Kong since 1953, and now has stores in New York, Beverly Hills, Manila, and Shanghai. The focus here is on the fit and details, from 22 stitches per inch to collar linings crafted to maintain their shape. Among the countless fabrics, Italian 330s three-ply Egyptian cotton by David & John Anderson is one of the most coveted and expensive. Like many shirtmakers, Ascot Chang does pajamas, robes, boxer shorts, and women's blouses, too. It also has ready-made lines of shirts, T-shirts, neckties, and other accessories available for online ordering. Other branches are located in the IFC Mall, Elements Mall, and the Peninsula Hotel.

    10 Chater Rd., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2523–3663
  • 12. Barney Cheng Couture

    Central

    One of Hong Kong's best-known local designers, Barney Cheng made a name for himself with his expert tailoring and entrance-making gowns. He's crafted many a bride's dream dress, and his masterfully tailored evening gowns range from HK$40,000–HK$100,000, depending on style, detailing, and fabric. Though he still designs extravagant special-occasion ware, Cheng's services have expanded to include sophisticated menswear, exotic skins, and bespoke jewels. Consultations are available by appointment only.

    34 Wyndham St., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2530–2829

    Shop Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun.
  • 13. Blanc de Chine

    Central

    Relying on word of mouth, Blanc de Chine has catered to high society and celebrities, such as actor Jackie Chan, for years. The small, refined tailoring shop neatly displays exquisite fabrics from Switzerland, France, and Italy used for tailor-made as well as ready-made women's wear, menswear, and home accessories. Items here are extravagances, but they're worth every penny.

    10 Chater Rd., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2104–7934
  • 14. Bumps to Babes

    Central

    Homegrown Bumps to Babes has everything you could possibly need for babies and children, all in one place. In addition to familiar brands of clothing, diapers, toiletries, food, and toys, look for strollers, books, maternity wear, furniture, and more. There's also a Southside branch in Horizon Plaza.

    12 Pedder St., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2522–7112
  • 15. Callixto

    Central

    If you’re searching for local handicrafts and worldly finds, then make a beeline for Callixto. Originally launched by Sasha Dennig as an online boutique in 2011, the store recently opened up a bright pink brick-and-mortar shop with a serious case of wanderlust. Look for jewelry from Greece, bags from India, carpets from Uzbekistan, and knickknacks from around the world.

    11 Mee Lun St., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    6316–9551
  • 16. Chow Sang Sang

    Central

    In addition to its contemporary gold, diamond, jade, and wedding collections for the local market, this manufacturer and retailer also sources international brands. It has more than 370 shops in China.

    37 Queen's Rd. Central, Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    3583–4150
  • 17. Chow Tai Fook

    Central

    Jade is not the only thing you'll see from this local chain founded in 1929. It also has fine jewelry in diamond, jadeite, ruby, sapphire, emerald, 18K gold, and more-traditional pure gold. And don't worry about tracking one down; Chow Tai Fook has more than 85 Hong Kong locations.

    29 Queen's Rd. Central, Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2523–7128
  • 18. Christie's

    Central

    The respected specialists at Christie's focus on Asian art and jewelry. Among the auctions are ones devoted to Chinese ceramics, Chinese calligraphy, and classical, modern, or contemporary paintings from around the continent.

    18 Chater Rd., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2760-1766

    Shop Details

    Rate Includes: Closed weekends
  • 19. Classics Anew

    Central

    Hong Kong is home to myriad specialty tailors, but for something a little different, head to Classics Anew. Designer Janko Lam has won many an eco-fashion award for her lines of reimagined cheongsams. For a more casual take on the traditionally formal dress, she adds her own unique flair: discarded denim. Skeptical? You may have to see these beautiful pieces in person to appreciate the originality, but they’re definitely one-of-a-kind finds. Expect to pay between HK$1,000 and HK$1,700 for one of Janko’s handmade dresses.

    35 Aberdeen St., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    9275–7059
  • 20. Connoisseur Art Gallery

    Central

    This well-known gallery represents a small batch of modern, mostly figurative Chinese artists, though it also showcases the dreamlike work of Swedish painter Dorina Mocan and dabbles in photography. Recent exhibitions have foregrounded farflung talents, such as French artist Christian Gaillard and his unique portraits of Spanish matadors. The gallery started to push out of its—and Hong Kong's—comfort zone with the opening of Connoisseur Contemporary next door in 2008; it features the often controversial creative output of the sociopolitical group referred to as the "eighties generation"—mainland Chinese emerging artists born in the 1980s under the one-child policy and known for subversive works.

    1 Hollywood Rd., Hong Kong, n/a Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    2868–5358

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