A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong

Are you the type of traveler that enjoys self-guided walking tours? If so, you’re in for a treat with this Sham Shui Po walking itinerary.

Hong Kong is a fascinating city, one that you’ll likely want to revisit again and again. But what do you do and where do you go once you’ve already been back a second or third time and have covered most of the top attractions? One way to explore Hong Kong a little deeper is by venturing into some of the more local neighbourhoods. Today we’re going to focus on one such place: Sham Shui Po.

Located in Kowloon, Sham Shui Po is very much a working-class neighborhood and that means markets, eateries and culture galore! This place has a lot to offer. If you know where to look, so in this blog post we’ll be sharing a self-guided walking itinerary, because the best way to explore Sham Shui Po is on foot. All you have to do is pick and choose what best suits your interests, and follow your curiosity.

Sham Shui Po Golden Computer Center and Arcade
Sham Shui Po Golden Computer Center and Arcade

Sham Shui Po is a neighborhood located in the Kowloon district of Hong Kong, with a history that is as diverse as it is intriguing. Originally an agricultural area, the district underwent a significant transformation in the 20th century, emerging as a bustling industrial center that was synonymous with textile manufacturing and trade.

The area was home to numerous textile factories, dyeing plants, and cloth wholesalers, attracting merchants from all corners of China and beyond, and serving as a hub for the global trading of textiles. However, the district’s history is not without its darker moments, as it was also used as a prisoner-of-war camp by the Japanese during World War II.

After the war, Sham Shui Po experienced a massive influx of immigrants from mainland China, who came to the area seeking refuge and opportunity. This population boom fueled the growth of the local economy, and the district quickly became a vibrant and bustling hub of commerce and industry.

Today, Sham Shui Po is known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling markets. Visitors to the area can explore a range of markets, such as the Apliu Street Market, Cheung Sha Wan Road Market, and Pei Ho Street Market, where they can find an array of goods, including clothing, electronics, and traditional Chinese medicinal herbs.

In addition to its markets, Sham Shui Po is famous for its street food, which offers visitors a tantalizing taste of Hong Kong’s culinary heritage. Fish balls, tofu pudding, and egg waffles are just a few of the delicacies that can be sampled from the numerous food stalls and vendors found throughout the district.

Despite undergoing significant redevelopment in recent years, Sham Shui Po has managed to retain its unique character and charm. The area remains a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic and immersive experience of Hong Kong’s diverse cultural heritage.

Things to do in Sham Shui Po Travel Guide

Markets & Shopping Streets

1) Apliu Street

When it comes to shopping for electronics in Sham Shui Po, you should strategically factor a visit to Apliu Street. Whether you’re looking for brand-new electronics or second-hand electronics, chances are you’ll find exactly what you’re after in this street market. Apliu Street has it all from action cameras to mobile phones, and universal adapters to selfie-sticks. The best part is that you can find a bargain.

2) Golden Computer Center and Arcade

Speaking of electronics and technology, another place to check out is Golden Computer Center and Arcade. Which like the name suggests is focused entirely on computers and computer accessories. You can find low-cost computer desktops and laptops along with peripherals. Plus there’s an entire section dedicated to gaming.

Toy Street in Sham Shui Po
Toy Street in Sham Shui Po

3) Fuk Wing Street

So we’ve talked about electronics quite a bit so far, but that’s not the only reason to shop in Sham Shui Po. Another popular street in this district is Fuk Wing Street, which is primarily known for selling toys and all kinds of party supplies that range from decorations to goodie bags. Perhaps not what the average traveler may be in the market for, but it’s a lively place worth browsing nonetheless.

4) Pei Ho Street

This street is home to a wet market where you can come and buy all your fresh produce, meats, and daily food items. There are also quite a few street food stands worth perusing. Remember that a long line of customers is always a sign of good food.

Shopping for fabric in Sham Shui Po
Shopping for fabric in Sham Shui Po

5) Cheung Sha Wan Road

If fashion is your thing, then you won’t want to miss Cheung Sha Wan Road. This street draws both fashion designers looking to buy wholesale fabric, as well as fashionistas looking for a deal. It may appear a bit frenzied and chaotic, but if you come here with the patience to go through racks of clothes, you can find something to suit your style and budget.

Cafes & Restaurants

1) Man Kei Kart Noodles

If it’s noodles you’re after, one well-known spot in Sham Shui Po is Man Kei Kart Noodles, which is said to serve some of the best noodles in all of Hong Kong. The ingredients are laid out in front of you, so all you have to do is point at what you want; the pig liver noodles are quite popular if you’re feeling adventurous.

2) Tim Ho Wan

When it comes to a guide to eating dim sum, you need to try eating at Tim Ho Wan at least once in your life. This place is an institution in Hong Kong, with multiple locations across the city, and a few worldwide! Some personal favorites from their menu include prawn dumplings, baked BBQ pork buns, and glutinous rice in a lotus leaf. Arrive before the lunch hour to avoid the wait.

3) Lau Sum Kee Noodles

This noodle shop specializes in egg noodles with wonton soup. Their noodles are freshly handmade each day with the use of a bamboo pole. There are no English menus at this eatery, but you can always resort to pointing at whatever looks good.

Kung Wo Tofu Pudding at Sham Shui Po
Kung Wo Tofu Pudding at Sham Shui Po

4) Kung Wo Beancurd Factory

For a little something sweet, head straight for the Kung Wo Beancurd Factory, which is best known for its tofu pudding. This is a popular Hong Kong dessert that is very silky and creamy, and will likely leave you wanting more. Another item to order aside from tofu pudding is soy milk, which can be served warm or cold.

5) Cafe Sausalito

If you’re starting to feel weary after all this walking around Sham Shui Po, you can always stop for coffee at Cafe Sausalito. Named after the San Francisco Bay Area city across the Golden Gate Bridge, this coffee shop is one place to come and get your dose of caffeine so you can keep exploring the neighborhood.

Culture & History

1) Man Fung Building

It may seem strange to list an ordinary residential building as a tourist attraction, but Madrid-based artist Okuda San Miguel recently transformed this structure as part of a street art festival called “HK Walls”. The structure is now covered in a colorful geometric design that forms the shape of a fox.

2) Sham Shui Po Park

This park is an important historical site in Sham Shui Po as it housed the main POW camp during the Japanese Occupation of Hong Kong. Also, as you walk through what today is a peaceful park, you’ll notice that there are two memorial plaques to commemorate those who perished here.

Kwan Tai Temple in Sham Shui Po
Kwan Tai Temple in Sham Shui Po

3) Kwan Tai Temple

This temple is dedicated to Kwan Tai who was a great warrior under the Three Kingdoms period and is revered as the god of war and righteousness. Furthermore, the temple also houses other smaller deities and is open to the public.

4) Sam Tai Tsz & Pak Tai Temple

This is a two-temple complex comprised of Sam Tai Tsz Temple & Pak Tai Temple; Sam Tai Tsz was built by Hakka immigrants in 1898 and houses relics that date back to the late Qing Dynasty, while Pak Tai Temple was built by a fisherman in 1920.

5) Bo Wah Effigies

Bo Wah specializes in creating paper effigies, which are part of Chinese rituals and traditionally burned as offerings to honor the deceased. Hence, most standard effigies are of clothes and houses, but these days they also create effigies of modern-day items like smartphones. Setting foot in here is a bit like visiting a museum and you just never know what you’re going to find.

Boutiques & Shops

1) Doughnut

Doughnut is a brand that creates colorful, high-quality backpacks and luggage. It was started by a group of young local designers back in 2010. Moreover, the label has since grown in popularity and opened up at a few more locations in Hong Kong.

Midway Shop in Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong
Midway Shop in Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong

2) Midway Shop

Midway Shop is a travel-themed store in Sham Shui Po.. The whole concept is about documenting individuals, products and sites from across the globe. Inside the store you can find photography, totes, mugs, shirts, and other objects with a story behind them.

3) Brothers Leathercraft

If it’s handcrafted leather goods you’re after, another stop to add to your Sham Shui Po walking itinerary is Brothers Leathercraft. This workshop and store sells all sorts of leather goods. Ranging from wallets and handbags, to belts and shoes. Alternatively, if you’re a craftsman in the making yourself, they sell leather for your own creations.

Toolss Shop and Cafe in Sham Shui Po
Toolss Shop and Cafe in Sham Shui Po

4) Toolss

This is a journal and stationary shop with products from around the world that have been carefully curated by the owner of this store. Moreover, the place also houses a coffee shop, so you can unwind with a cup of hand drip coffee.

5) Form Society

Another interesting place in Sham Shui Po is Form Society. This space is divided into different sections for exhibitions and collaborative projects. Thus, they’re focused on bringing the community together. So they also organize pop-ups, speakers’ sessions, and workshops where people can come and learn a new craft or skill.

Sham Shui Po at Night
Sham Shui Po at Night

Hopefully, this article has given you a few ideas to get started. As you can see, Sham Shui Po has plenty to offer and it’s worth adding to your Hong Kong itinerary if you’re looking to experience the city beyond the main tourist attractions.

This campaign was created in partnership with the Hong Kong Tourism Board and iambassador. Images provided by HKTB.

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44 Comments

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  1. says: arv

    I did not have time to undertake a walk when I visited Hong Kong. It was a very crisp trip. Seeing your post, I think I should have taken out time to do the walk. I’m hoping I do get to walk, the next time when I visit Hong Kong.

  2. This article is a fantastic guide to exploring the bustling district of Sham Shui Po. The article is well-written, with detailed descriptions and beautiful photos that perfectly capture the essence of the area. The author provides useful information about the history, culture, and landmarks of the district, making it an excellent resource for travelers interested in learning more about Hong Kong’s rich heritage. Overall, this article is an outstanding resource for anyone looking to explore Sham Shui Po, and it is a testament to the author’s passion for travel and cultural exploration.

  3. says: Amazing world

    Sham Shui Po Street Market – This is a must-visit for anyone interested in local Hong Kong culture. The market is full of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to clothing and electronics. Be sure to bargain and haggle for the best prices.

  4. says: Orang Tua

    The attractions are really enticing. Hope one day I would be able to visit Sham Shui.

    I’ve been to Hong Kong, but never Sham Shui. Didn’t know it existed at that time.

    Great blog, hope to be back 🙂

  5. says: Jack

    My favorite part of my travel experience in Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong was exploring the city by bike. It was such a fun way to see the city and I really enjoyed the freedom that it gave me. I also really enjoyed meeting the people who I met while on my tour. They were all so interesting and I enjoyed learning about their culture.

  6. Great post! We are visiting friends who live in HK when we can start travelling again, so we have taken notes. This looks like an interesting way to explore this area. Thanks

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  8. SSP is actually my favourite area of markets in HK. I’ve only been to the markets but it clearly has so much more to offer. I definitely need to visit again to check out all of these spots!

  9. says: Rk Singh

    This is great advice!
    very honest and practical.
    The benefits of journeying aren’t only a one-time factor: travelling changes you physically and psychologically. Having little time or cash isn’t a legitimate excuse. You may fly for reasonably-priced very easily. If you have a full-time job and a circle of relatives, you can still tour on the weekends or vacations, in spite of a child.
    Thanks for sharing with us!!! Keep it up!!

  10. says: Visit To World

    Hong is a amazing country. Noodles wow. Very nice article. I think you enjoy you trip very much. Thank you for sharing this article.

  11. says: marc

    Aaaah, Hong Kong, a dream destination for me! I wanna go there, now!
    Thanks a lot for this post with these cool advices. And the photos are just awsome.