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If there’s one thing Hong Kong does supremely well, it’s shopping; from high-end malls to vibrant open-air markets, there’s always something for sale. You’re most likely to score super deals during the winter sales of late December to early February and the summer sales of July through September.
= Smart Splurge
= Great Value
Elements This much-buzzed-about upscale shopping center features high-end stores like Lucky Jeans and Gucci, dining, a state-of-the-art cinema, a gourmet supermarket, and even an ice rink. It’s an excellent way to spend a dreary day and is a true introduction to Hong Kong culture. Tsim Sha Tsui; 1 Austin Rd. West; 011-852-2735-5234; www.elementshk.com
Stanley Market Carve out a morning for this shopping extravaganza. The market’s best buys include Asian-style home décor items, well-priced cashmere, seconds from U.S. brands like J.Crew and Gap, and souvenirs. Afterwards, catch your breath with a drink on the pretty waterfront. Southside (Stanley); Between Stanley New St. and Stanley Market Rd.; www.hk-stanley-market.com
Pacific Place Arguably the pioneer of Hong Kong’s ultra-posh, mall movement – it opened in the early ‘90s – this glitzy behemoth hasn’t faltered in the face of competitors. It’s home to every Western brand you can think of (everything from Chanel to Zara) – as well as Hong Kong’s own swanky department store, Lane Crawford. Central; 13/F One Pacific Place, 88 Queensway; 011-852-2844-8900; www.pacificplace.com.hk
The Lanes Their official names are Li Yuen Street East and Li Yuen Street West, but most locals know these narrow parallel alleyways by their common nickname: “The Lanes.” Head here for cheap watches, faux pashminas, knock-off bags, and well-priced clothing. Central; Between Queen’s Rd. and Des Voeux Rd.
Chinese Arts & Crafts The largest branch of this upscale arts & crafts chain is just opposite the Star Ferry terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui. In business for several decades, it’s one of the most solid places to find Chinese furniture, linens, tableware, antiques, and souvenirs. Tsim Sha Tsui; 3 Salisbury Rd.; 011-852-2735-4061; www.crcretail.com
Shanghai Tang This luxury Chinese boutique offers a discerning East-Meets-West take on home furnishings, clothing, accessories, and gifts. If you really want to blow the budget, there’s even a made-to-measure clothing service staffed by professional tailors. Central; Pedder Building, 12 Pedder St.; 011-852-2525-7333; www.shanghaitang.com
Delay No Mall This high-end mini mall opened to great fanfare in December 2007 thanks to the hipper-than-thou reputation of the retail team behind it. Around 50 super-trendy sartorial brands share space with a bar and a tattoo parlor – you know, in case you need a more permanent souvenir. Causeway Bay; 68 Yee Wo St.
G.O.D. G.O.D. – “Goods of Desire” – specializes in furniture and homeware with an Asian motif. Asian-style furniture shops abound in Hong Kong but few combine home fixtures with as many attractively laid-out knickknacks (journals, vases, teapots, candles), as G.O.D. The chain has three branches throughout the city, but the Central branch is our favorite because it also stocks pajamas and slippers. Prices are reasonable and G.O.D. staff are familiar with handling overseas shipments. Central; 48 Hollywood Rd.; 011-852-2805-1876; www.god.com.hk
Monte Kashmir Monte Kashmir stocks around 30 types of cashmere – all sourced in Mongolia and manufactured in Hong Kong – in a bevy of different colors. The turtlenecks, scarves, and sweater designs are classic and cut along simple lines so they can easily last for years. This is just as well, as items here don’t come cheap. Kowloon; The Peninsula Arcade, The Peninsula, Salisbury Rd.; 011-852-2312-1289; www.montekashmir.com.hk
Arch Angel Antiques All antique items at Arch Angel are accompanied by a detailed certificate of authenticity. Browse for Ming dynasty figurines, terra-cotta figures, museum-quality ceramics, boxes, and collectibles in this three-story store. Ask the owners to point out the nearby galleries which showcase their bronze Buddhas, stone sculptures, and even contemporary Vietnamese art. The shop has been run since 1988 by a Dutch and American couple. Central; 53-55 Hollywood Rd.; 011-852-2851-6848
Yue Hwa Chinese Products Yue Hwa offers the convenience of traditional Chinese products and everyday items under a single roof. There are seven stores dotted around the city but the main one is in the busy Yaumatei district and stocks jade jewelry, Chinese handicrafts, tea, furniture, medicinal herbs, arts and crafts, shoes, china, linens, and household goods. Unlike many of the new and trendy department stores in Central and Causeway Bay, Yue Hwa’s stores still have a vague resemblance to the traditional Chinese department store. Can’t find an item? The friendly staff won’t hesitate to help. Yaumatei, Kowloon; 301-309 Nathan Rd., Jordan; 011-852-3511-2222; www.yuehwa.com
