Cat Street Market, Hong Kong

Cat Street Market is one of Hong Kong’s most distinctive spots for browsing antiques and vintage collectibles. Once known as a hub for traders dealing in second-hand goods, it has evolved into a lively flea-market–style street where stalls and small shops display everything from traditional Chinese crafts to quirky souvenirs.

Visitors will find jade carvings, calligraphy scrolls, Cultural Revolution memorabilia, old coins, teapots, decorative porcelain, and vintage advertising posters. Some shops offer genuine antiques, while others sell replicas or reproduction items — which is part of the market’s charm, though travelers should keep in mind that authenticity varies widely.

In addition to antiques, Cat Street is known for its selection of hand-painted artwork, ceramic pieces, Tibetan-style jewelry, and secondhand books. A few shops also sell carpets and small furniture pieces, though these are less dominant than in the past. Many stalls display Mao-era souvenirs such as “Red Book” replicas, enamel pins, posters and other Cultural Revolution–themed items that attract collectors and curious tourists alike.

One advantage for shoppers is that prices are usually more reasonable than in Hong Kong’s high-end antique galleries. Bargaining is common, especially for decorative pieces, and many imported goods are offered at competitive, sometimes tax-free prices. Even if you don’t purchase anything, Cat Street Market is a memorable stop for its eclectic mix of old Hong Kong charm, colorful objects and treasure-hunt atmosphere.