Tai Po Market (Old Town) Hong Kong
A bustling traditional market and food court offering a vibrant slice of local Hong Kong life, with scenic bike trails nearby.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest produce, fewer crowds
Tai Po Market (Old Town) Hong Kong
Best Time
Freshest produce, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling traditional market and food court offering a vibrant slice of local Hong Kong life, with scenic bike trails nearby.
"Experience the real Hong Kong at Tai Po Market – delicious food, local life, and scenic rides!"
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Rent a bike near Tai Wai for scenic rides along the Shing Mun River. A great way to explore!
🧇 Don't Miss the Waffles!
Try the affordable and delicious waffles from the market's food court. A local favorite!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Wet Market
Main Market Hall
A sensory explosion of fresh seafood, exotic fruits, and local produce. A true taste of Hong Kong life.
Local Delicacies
Food Court
Savor affordable and authentic Hong Kong street food. From waffles to noodles, it's a culinary adventure.

Bicycle Trails
Shing Mun River
Rent a bike and explore scenic paths along the river, a refreshing escape from the city bustle.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
/r/HongKong, What are some of your favourite places that the guide books wont show you?
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Rent a bike near Tai Wai for scenic rides along the Shing Mun River. A great way to explore!
🧇 Don't Miss the Waffles!
Try the affordable and delicious waffles from the market's food court. A local favorite!
tai po market (end of day)
⏰ Arrive Early for Freshness
For the best selection of seafood and produce, head to the market in the early morning.
💰 Bargain Hunting
Prices can be negotiable, especially towards the end of the day. Be polite and have fun!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Rent a bike near Tai Wai for scenic rides along the Shing Mun River. A great way to explore!
🧇 Don't Miss the Waffles!
Try the affordable and delicious waffles from the market's food court. A local favorite!
⏰ Arrive Early for Freshness
For the best selection of seafood and produce, head to the market in the early morning.
💰 Bargain Hunting
Prices can be negotiable, especially towards the end of the day. Be polite and have fun!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Tai Po Market for its authentic local atmosphere and incredibly affordable food court offerings. The vibrant wet market provides a genuine glimpse into Hong Kong life, though some find the sheer variety overwhelming. The cycling trails nearby are a significant draw for those seeking outdoor activity.
"When it was suggested that we would go to the market (街市) for dinner I had mixed feelings. My memory of markets is that it is wet, quite dirty and I would never thought of eating anything there. However, it appears to have been modernised and even the toilet facilities are acceptable. We got seafood from the ground floor and took it to the cooked food court where they will charge you a fee to cook it for you. The seafood was as fresh as it gets. Environment is ok. I would go there again with families but I wouldn’t entertain there. It was a nice experience and I would go back."
Andrew Cheng
"Quaint place. Not all stores opened due to CNY but very interesting to see so much meat, fruits and vegetables in one location. Too floor had wonderful noodle store and pork chops to die for. Fruits store had huge strawberries and cherries...yums"
Christina Lee
"A manifesting market to meet all your daily needs. 3 levels segregated by wet-dry food like seafood, meats vs dried goods and cooked food."
Wayne tham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the MTR East Rail Line to Tai Po Market Station. From there, it's a short walk to the market. You can also find buses that go directly to the area.
Yes, taxis are readily available in Hong Kong. You can tell your driver to go to 'Tai Po Market' (大埔墟街市). It's a convenient option if you have a lot of shopping.
While not directly at the market, bike rentals are available near Tai Wai Station, which is a few MTR stops away. This is a popular starting point for cycling along the Shing Mun River.
The market itself is walkable. For exploring further, consider local buses or taxis. Renting a bike is also a fantastic option for the surrounding scenic routes.
While not explicitly advertised, you could potentially park at a larger MTR station like Kowloon Tong and take the MTR to Tai Po Market Station to avoid driving in busy areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Tai Po Market is a public market and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely explore the market stalls and the food court.
The market stalls typically operate from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. The food court often stays open later. It's best to check specific stall hours if you have a particular item in mind.
There is no admission fee for the food court. You simply pay for the food and drinks you order from the individual vendors.
Yes, bringing your own reusable bags is highly encouraged to reduce plastic waste. Many vendors will happily pack your purchases into your bags.
Most market stalls will have reduced hours or be closed on major public holidays. The food court might remain open with limited vendors. It's advisable to check beforehand.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find an incredible variety of fresh seafood, meats, vegetables, fruits, dried goods, and local snacks. It's a fantastic place to experience Hong Kong's traditional market culture.
Many visitors rave about the affordable and delicious options. Popular choices include waffles, various noodle dishes, dim sum, and local desserts.
While not as common as in some other Asian markets, polite negotiation might be possible, especially towards the end of the day. However, prices are generally quite reasonable.
While the market is known for its seafood and meat, the food court often has stalls offering noodle soups, rice dishes, and snacks that can be adapted for vegetarians. Look for stalls specializing in vegetable dishes.
Most vendors in the wet market primarily accept cash. In the food court, some vendors might accept mobile payment apps, but it's always best to have cash on hand.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! Tai Po Market offers a vibrant and authentic glimpse into local life, with colorful displays of produce and bustling activity, making it a photographer's delight.
Early mornings offer great natural light and the most activity. Evenings in the food court can also provide interesting shots with artificial lighting and a different atmosphere.
Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, it's always respectful to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their stalls, especially if they seem busy.
Expect to capture close-ups of fresh ingredients, wide shots of the bustling market aisles, candid portraits of vendors, and vibrant food photography in the court.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide scenes and details. A fast prime lens (like a 50mm f/1.8) is excellent for low-light food photography in the court.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the peak crowds, making it easier to navigate with little ones. If you plan to explore the surrounding areas, renting bikes near Tai Wai Station can be a fun family activity, with many trails being relatively flat and safe. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as the market can get warm, and keep an eye on children in the bustling environment.
💰 Budget Travelers
Getting to Tai Po Market via the MTR is also very cost-effective. If you're looking to save on transportation, consider using the extensive public transport network. Renting a bicycle for the day is another budget-friendly way to explore the scenic surroundings. Overall, Tai Po Market provides an authentic Hong Kong experience that is both rich in culture and easy on the wallet.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Tai Po by Bicycle
This cycling experience provides a refreshing contrast to the urban intensity of central Hong Kong. It's a chance to immerse yourself in a more relaxed, local environment. The rental costs are typically very reasonable, making it an affordable way to spend a day exploring the New Territories. Remember to bring water and wear comfortable clothing for your ride.
Beyond the river trail, the broader Tai Po area has other cycling routes that can lead to parks and coastal areas, offering diverse landscapes for exploration. It's a perfect activity for those looking to combine sightseeing with a bit of outdoor activity.
The Culinary Delights of Tai Po Market
The food court, located within or adjacent to the market, is where the culinary adventure truly unfolds. Here, you can find an abundance of affordable and authentic Hong Kong street food. From crispy waffles and savory noodle dishes to dim sum and local desserts, there's something to satisfy every palate. Many visitors highlight the value for money and the genuine local flavors.
When visiting the food court, don't be afraid to try a variety of stalls. It’s a great opportunity to sample different Hong Kong specialties at local prices. While cash is often preferred, some vendors may accept mobile payments. Exploring the food court is an essential part of the Tai Po Market experience, offering a delicious and immersive cultural insight.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit