Sham Shui Po is one of those neighborhoods in Hong Kong that everyone talks about, but for the longest time, I’d never really explored it. Honestly, I’m a little embarrassed to admit that. I’ve lived in Hong Kong for years, yet my friends from abroad have spent more time here than I have! So, this year, I decided it was finally time to see what Sham Shui Po has to offer—and spoiler alert: it didn’t disappoint.
In this post, I’ll share a little about this fascinating district, along with some of the cool spots and hidden gems we discovered. If you’re planning a trip to Hong Kong or just looking for new places to explore, keep reading!
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Sham Shui Po: A Neighborhood with Character
Located in Kowloon, Sham Shui Po is one of Hong Kong’s most densely populated areas. It’s known for its vibrant local community and is home to many low-income families. But don’t let that fool you—this neighborhood is packed with charm and personality.
Compared to the glitzy skyscrapers of Central or the bustling tourist hubs like Tsim Sha Tsui, Sham Shui Po has a completely different vibe. It’s an old neighborhood, with narrow streets, aging buildings, and a grittier, more down-to-earth energy. But that’s exactly what makes it special.
If you’re curious to dive deeper into the realities of life in Hong Kong—beyond the tourist spots—some tours explore the city’s lesser-seen side, including the challenges of housing and small living spaces. These experiences provide a unique and eye-opening perspective on the city’s social issues. Check out this tour from GetYourGuide here.
Behind the slightly chaotic exterior, you’ll find a treasure trove of hidden gems, from nostalgic shops to delicious eats. Here’s a look at what we explored, but before anything else, make sure to get an Octopus Card—it’s an essential tool for navigating Hong Kong with ease.
Mei Ho House: A Time Capsule of Old Hong Kong
Let’s start with Mei Ho House, a small museum that tells the story of early public housing in Hong Kong. Look, I know the word “museum” might make some people roll their eyes, but trust me—this one is worth it.
What makes Mei Ho House special is how immersive it is. Sure, there are history boards and timelines, but they’ve also recreated old Hong Kong spaces like salons, herbal tea shops, and even cinemas. Walking through feels like stepping into a portal to the past. It’s fascinating, and you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Hong Kong’s history and its local communities.
Oh, and did I mention it’s free? If you’re in the area, make sure to check it out. Additionally, if you are looking for accommodation, there is a youth hostel just beside it – YHA Mei Ho House Youth Hostel.
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Sunday & public holidays: 10 am – 6 pm
Mid-Autumn Festival, Christmas Eve & Lunar New Year’s Eve: 10 am – 4 pm
Mondays (except public holidays) & the first three days of the Lunar New Year: Closed
Address: G/F, YHA Mei Ho House Youth Hostel, Block 41, Shek Kip Mei Estate, 70 Berwick Street, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon
Sham Shui Po Ex-Reservoir: A Hidden Architectural Gem
Next up, is the Sham Shui Po Ex-Reservoir. This place might not be on the typical tourist radar, but its European-style granite piers and red-brick structures make it a photogenic spot that’s worth a visit. It’s a peaceful hideaway that feels worlds apart from the busy streets of Sham Shui Po. I recommend going early in the morning when it opens so you can enjoy the calm before the crowds show up. The place is not big, so they have implemented crowd control, only 100 people at a time.
Central Restaurant: Dim Sum with a Nostalgic Twist
If you’re a dim sum lover (and who isn’t?), you have to try Central Restaurant. Tucked away inside a residential building, it’s a hidden gem—but don’t be fooled, it’s no secret to the locals. We went during non-peak hours and still had to wait for a table.
What makes this place special? They still use the old-school dim sum pushcarts! There’s no English menu or fancy ordering system here. Instead, you’re given a blank paper, and every time you grab a dish from the cart, they stamp your paper. It’s a charming, throwback experience that feels like a slice of Hong Kong’s past.
Pro tip: Brush up on your Cantonese food vocabulary or go with a local friend if you’re not fluent—they don’t cater much to tourists.
Kung Wo Beancurd Factory
Another must-visit in Sham Shui Po is the Kung Wo Beancurd Factory. This local shop is famous for its soy-based products, like tofu pudding, soy milk, and of course, plain tofu. The freshness and flavor are unbeatable. But that’s not all—they also serve classic Hong Kong street food, like siu mai (pork dumplings) and curry fish balls. It’s the perfect spot for a quick snack or a light meal while exploring the neighborhood.
Shopping Streets in Sham Shui Po: A Bargain Hunter’s Paradise
Lastly, we explored the shopping streets in Sham Shui Po. One of the things I love about Hong Kong is how certain streets are nicknamed based on what they sell. Sham Shui Po is no exception—it’s a shopping haven for electronics, crafts, and more. If you are working on crafts and creative projects, save this for your next visit!
Here are some of the most notable streets we explored:
- Ap Liu Street: The go-to spot for electronics. Whether you’re looking for phone accessories, vintage cameras, or second-hand gadgets, you’ll find it here. Bonus: you can practice your haggling skills!
- Tai Nan Street (Leather Street): This street specializes in leather goods, but recently it’s also become a hotspot for trendy cafes and workshops. It’s an interesting mix of old and new, which attracted a lot of young people to come here.
- Nam Cheong Street (Ribbon Street): If you’re into fabric shopping, this is the place to go. It’s known for its ribbons, buttons, and all kinds of sewing supplies.
- Yu Chau Street (Bead Street): A crafter’s dream! From beads to jewelry-making accessories, this street has everything you need for your next creative project.
- Ki Lung Street (Button Street): Despite the name, this street isn’t just about buttons. You’ll find all kinds of fabrics and sewing supplies here as well.
Golden Shopping Centre: A Tech Lover’s Dream
Finally, if you’re into computers or gaming, don’t miss Golden Shopping Centre. This place is a haven for tech enthusiasts, with stalls selling everything from hardware to video games.
Final Thoughts
Sham Shui Po might not have the glitz and glamour of other parts of Hong Kong, but that’s exactly why it’s so special. It’s a neighborhood that feels authentic, with a rich history and a vibrant community. One day is not enough to explore this place, as so many new cafes and shops opened in the area. Whether you’re into food, history, shopping, or just exploring off-the-beaten-path places, there’s something here for everyone.
So, if you haven’t been to Sham Shui Po yet, what are you waiting for? Pack your curiosity, bring an empty stomach, and get ready to uncover the hidden gems of this underrated district.
What’s your favorite spot in Sham Shui Po? Let me know in the comments. I’d love to hear your thoughts and check out your recommendations!
If it is your first time in Hong Kong, check out my posts on trip planning, money-saving tips, walking guides, and useful apps.