Sham Shui Po is the most common answer to the question – "where should I go to buy cheap electronics". Being okay with Mongkok and Wanchai’s computer markets I never thought about going there, not even to buy "really cheap" electronics, but when something electronic I have broke down and I tried to fix it in several places around Hong Kong the most common answer was – "you’re wasting your time, the only chance you have is if you go to Sham Shui Po". So, off I went to Sham Shui Po.
In my case – even if Sham Shui Po did indeed have what I needed, the bottom line was that it proved impossible for me to find it alone using only English. You see… it’s a really really local place. But, looking at the positive side of things – I finally got to see what Sham Shui Po is all about.
So what’s Sham Shui Po about? HK government’s Discover Hong Kong website writes:
There’s also a fascinating flea market in Apliu Street, that is well known for selling bargain (brand new and second-hand) electrical devices and electronic products, A/V equipment and telecommunications products. Sharp-eyed shoppers can also find good deals on antique watches, old coins, and other relics. Apliu Street Flea Market stalls trade daily between noon and night-time.
To get there – MTR Sham Shui Po Station Exit C2, and walk to Apliu Street Flea Market.
If you want to see it in action, watch this next video here…
So… what’s to see?
Lights…
Custom banners…
All sorts of weird stuff you’re not sure about …
Mobile accessories…
Key chains and such…
A/C remotes…
TV remotes…
All sorts of junk…
Pots…
Bulbs…
Then, ofcourse, you have the neighborhood, perhaps one of the least prestigious in Hong Kong…
Where it’s great to observe locals doing their thing…
Overall, not a very posh area, but it does have its run-down-type-of-style.
More on Sham Shui Po:
- Hong Kong gadget flea market: a blast from the past
- The Engadget Show: Inside the gadget markets of China, part one – Hong Kong
- Thaiworldview
- Sham Shui Po
- Fighting it out in Sham Shui Po
- This you gotta see – MOC: Apliu Street in Hong Kong
Cool place and great post!