Shopping in the Stanley Market in Hong Kong

After Nathan Road, you might want a slightly quieter shopping experience, so head over from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island and visit Stanley Market.

Stanley Market is open only during normal business hours, but it has a wide variety of handicrafts, souvenirs and even a few designer labels. There are also restaurants and bars and a stroll along the relaxing beach is nice after a hot day of shopping.

It was once a quiet fishing village as you can still see evidence of its past in the many paintings of sailing junks set against recognizable backdrops.

You can find Chinese artwork, collectibles, silk or whatever you may be in the market for, you can find here. Jade is frequently sought after and available here.

Wherever you go to shop in Hong Kong, whether on the island or Kowloon or elsewhere, be prepared for crowds and (in the summer) hot and humid weather. Hong Kong is a vibrant, bustling metropolis with small oasis's of tranquility.

To find one of those little tranquil spots, stop in at one of the many small temples and enjoy a few minutes of quiet between bouts of bargaining. The Tin Hau, honoring the goddess of the sea, is a good place to visit. Built in 1767, visitors can step in and see the genuine tiger skin and smell some relaxing incense.

Be sure to check out the Hong Kong Maritime Museum housed in Murray House. It was constructed from a hundred-year-old building moved brick by brick and it holds over 500 exhibits of ancient pottery. There are also interactive games and displays showing Hong Kong's historical connection to the sea.

Still in evidence are the remnants of British Colonial rule as well as the navy that enforced it. Much farther back the Hakka called Hong Kong home and their history is recorded, as well.

Next to the Murray House, is a shopping arcade and a community theater, and every Christmas, Stanley Plaza hosts a free concert by the Hong Kong International School Band.

Venture out for more shopping where you can find toys, ornaments, and crafts made by the locals. Unlike Nathan Road, the area is frequented as much by locals as by the tourists (at least on the weekends). As with other shopping experiences in Hong Kong, visitors need to be prepared to bargain. It's expected and great deals can be had for those willing to haggle.

Getting to Stanley is simple via the bus as the No. 6 from Exchange Square in Central is one easy route, but be prepared for a lengthy ride. Ride on the top of one of the double-deckers and enjoy the view of Repulse Bay as you go. For a quicker ride, take the MTR subway to Chai Wan Station and catch the No. 16M.