Filipino Handicraft Market
A bustling waterfront market offering a vibrant array of Filipino handicrafts, Sabah pearls, local snacks, and fresh seafood.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vendors are active, more selection
Filipino Handicraft Market
Best Time
Vendors are active, more selection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling waterfront market offering a vibrant array of Filipino handicrafts, Sabah pearls, local snacks, and fresh seafood.
"Discover unique souvenirs and delicious local flavors at this lively market!"
Negotiate Prices Wisely
Always try to bargain for a better price on souvenirs and clothing. Sellers are friendly and expect it! :moneywithwings:
Sample Local Snacks
Don't miss out on trying the delicious dried seafood and local snacks. Many vendors offer free samples! :yum:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sabah Pearls
Throughout the market
Discover a dazzling array of pearls in various shapes and sizes. Perfect for unique souvenirs or gifts.
Local Batik and Handicrafts
Various stalls
Find beautiful batik fabrics and intricate local handicrafts. A true taste of Filipino artistry.
Dried Seafood and Snacks
Front stalls
Sample and buy a variety of delicious dried seafood and local snacks. Many vendors offer free tasters!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bargaining is Key
Navigating the Market
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Negotiate Prices Wisely
Always try to bargain for a better price on souvenirs and clothing. Sellers are friendly and expect it! :moneywithwings:
Sample Local Snacks
Don't miss out on trying the delicious dried seafood and local snacks. Many vendors offer free samples! :yum:
Beware of Parking Scams
Be cautious of aggressive children demanding money in the parking area. Consider alternative transport if concerned. :warning:
Focus Your Shopping
Know what you want to buy to avoid feeling overwhelmed by the vast selection of pearls and handicrafts. :shopping_cart:
Tips
from all over the internet
Negotiate Prices Wisely
Always try to bargain for a better price on souvenirs and clothing. Sellers are friendly and expect it! :moneywithwings:
Sample Local Snacks
Don't miss out on trying the delicious dried seafood and local snacks. Many vendors offer free samples! :yum:
Beware of Parking Scams
Be cautious of aggressive children demanding money in the parking area. Consider alternative transport if concerned. :warning:
Focus Your Shopping
Know what you want to buy to avoid feeling overwhelmed by the vast selection of pearls and handicrafts. :shopping_cart:
Check T-shirt Prices
While many items are great buys, t-shirts might be cheaper in regular shops around KK. :t-shirt:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and wide selection of handicrafts, pearls, and local snacks at the Filipino Handicraft Market. The friendly nature of the vendors and the opportunity to bargain are often highlighted as positives. However, some shoppers find the sheer volume of goods overwhelming, and a few have had uncomfortable experiences with aggressive child solicitors in the parking area.
"We leisurely meandered through the KK (Kota Kinabalu) Handicraft Centre, also referred to as the Filipino Market or Anjung Kinabalu, on a Saturday. The market boasts a vast array of souvenirs, including Sabah pearls in various shapes and sizes. We even bought a T-shirt for RM 40. There were stunning batiks for sale, along with fresh fruits, vegetables, dried snacks, and everything else you'd expect at a market. Notably, along the front of the market, male tailors were busy at work with their sewing machines, adding a unique touch to the vibrant atmosphere. It was easy to visit, as our apartment was in The Shore, just across the road. The market operates daily from around 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM."
Bridgitte *
"My opinion is, know what you want to buy, study the price and try to nego with the sellers as low as you can. Item such as amplang, kerepek cincin, ikan bilis, pearl brooch, you can buy here. But for item such as T-shirt, kaftan etc just go to normal shop around KK or accross this market. For the sellers, I think they’re all so friendly & can nego. They Even can packup your bought item in a box."
Shapiai Mohd Saiful
"We got some nice handicraft and local batik. Good price! Too much of pearls to choose, so good with something in mind then u can make better choices. If not, u wil be overwhelmed and bewildered with the vast variety."
Joan Lim-Choong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is conveniently located by the waterfront in Kota Kinabalu. If you're staying nearby, like in The Shore, it's easily accessible on foot. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available to take you directly to the market.
Yes, there is a paid parking area. However, be aware that some visitors have reported uncomfortable experiences with children aggressively asking for money in the parking lot.
The market generally operates daily from around 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, offering ample time for visitors to explore and shop.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, situated in a prime waterfront location, making it easy to find and access.
Yes, if you are staying in the central Kota Kinabalu area, walking to the market is a pleasant option and allows you to soak in the city's atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit the Filipino Handicraft Market. You can freely wander through the stalls and browse the goods.
Tickets are not required for entry, and you do not need to book in advance. The market is open to the public daily.
While the market is generally busy, visiting during weekdays or slightly off-peak hours (e.g., mid-morning or late afternoon) might offer a slightly less crowded experience.
The market is quite open along the waterfront, with multiple access points. You can easily enter from the main road or the promenade.
The main pathways are generally flat, but some stalls might have uneven ground. It's advisable to proceed with caution.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You'll find a wide variety of handicrafts, including intricate wood carvings, woven items, local textiles, and unique souvenirs that reflect Filipino and Sabahan culture.
Sabah pearls are popular and come in various shapes and sizes. It's recommended to inspect them carefully and compare prices before purchasing.
Yes, bargaining is a common practice here. Sellers are friendly and expect you to negotiate prices, especially for handicrafts and clothing.
While you can find clothing here, some reviews suggest that regular shops around Kota Kinabalu or across the market might offer better prices for items like t-shirts and kaftans.
Look for dried seafood, various types of 'kerepek' (chips), 'amplang', and other local delicacies. Many vendors offer samples to try before you buy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market is known for its street food, especially seafood. You can find grilled fish, satay, and various local snacks. The TikTok video mentions Martabak Jawa.
Yes, the market specializes in seafood. You can often find fresh catches grilled or prepared on the spot, offering a delicious local dining experience.
While seafood is prominent, you can likely find fruit stalls and some snack options that are vegetarian-friendly. It's best to ask vendors directly.
Prices can vary, but street food and snacks are generally affordable, offering good value for money. Bargaining might also apply to some food items.
Generally, street food from popular markets like this is considered safe, especially if you choose stalls that are busy and appear clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant stalls filled with colorful handicrafts, the bustling activity of tailors at work, and the diverse array of local produce and snacks. The waterfront views are also picturesque.
It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their specific products. Most will be happy to oblige.
Both daytime and early evening offer great photographic opportunities. Daytime provides natural light for vibrant colors, while evening offers a lively atmosphere with market lights.
The entire market is a visual feast! Look for the tailors working, the displays of pearls, and the colorful batik fabrics for unique shots.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is ideal for evening shots. For daytime, ensure your camera is set to capture vibrant colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be mindful of the crowds and the potential for aggressive child solicitors in the parking area. It might be advisable to use taxis or ride-sharing services to avoid this issue. Keep a close eye on children, especially in busy areas, and consider focusing on the food stalls and less crowded sections of the market for a more relaxed family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
While some items like t-shirts might be found cheaper elsewhere, many unique local crafts and snacks offer excellent value. Sampling the street food is also an affordable way to experience local cuisine. Just be aware of the parking situation if you're driving, as unexpected costs can arise there.
🛍️ Souvenir Hunters
It's recommended to have an idea of what you're looking for to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Take your time, compare prices, and don't hesitate to bargain to secure the best prices for your treasures. The market is also a great place to pick up edible souvenirs like dried seafood and local snacks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Bargaining
While bargaining is expected, it's also important to be fair. If you agree on a price, stick to it. The market offers a wide array of items, from intricate wood carvings to vibrant batik fabrics and the popular Sabah pearls. Knowing your budget beforehand will help you navigate the market more effectively and ensure you get the best value for your money.
Navigating Potential Pitfalls
To mitigate this, consider alternative transportation options like taxis or ride-sharing services. If you do drive, be firm but polite with any solicitors, or consider leaving if the situation feels unsafe. Despite this concern, many visitors still find the market to be a rewarding experience, especially when focusing on the shopping and food aspects.
A Culinary Adventure
Beyond seafood, the market is also a treasure trove of local snacks. Visitors rave about the variety of dried seafood and unique 'kerepek' (chips) and 'amplang'. Many vendors are happy to let you sample their goods before you commit to a purchase, making it a delightful way to discover new flavors. The TikTok video even highlights the presence of Martabak Jawa, adding another layer to the culinary offerings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit