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Cultural keepsakes: Shopping for unique Hong Kong treasures

Yahoo
  • Written by Yahoo

Hong Kong, celebrated as a shopping paradise, is a treasure trove of unique cultural finds waiting to be explored. Shopping here is an adventure filled with discovery, where it’s not just about purchasing but experiencing the essence of the city through the ambience, design, and unique products each shop offers. Here are seven accredited shops under the Quality Tourism Services (QTS) Scheme that promise an unforgettable journey in the city’s vibrant shopping scene.

 Bookazine

Bookazine

When it comes to English bookstores in Hong Kong, Bookazine is a name that springs to mind. This family-run chain recently opened a branch in Tai Kwun, a declared monument that has quickly become a popular hub for hipsters and culture enthusiasts. But Bookazine is far more than a traditional bookstore; it offers a curated selection of English books and magazines alongside stationery, greeting cards, gourmet treats, eco-friendly toys and party essentials that add joy to daily life. The store also frequently hosts book clubs, workshops and parenting talks, showcasing its dedication to fostering local culture and supporting Hong Kong’s creative community. 

hoopla

hoopla

Stepping into hoopla feels like entering a whimsical grocery store where maximalism reigns supreme. Specialising in all things knitted, this boutique takes the art of yarn and crochet to quirky new heights. Expect more than sweaters, scarves, or gloves; here, you’ll find everything from mini knitted totes inspired by Hong Kong’s iconic red-white-blue bags, ‘good fortune’ phone straps, rabbit-shaped lantern crossbody bags and mahjong-patterned felt mats. Their bestselling items include luggage tags featuring Cantonese slang like ‘see word and drink water’ or ‘just get some rest and take a break’ and amulets inscribed with auspicious phrases such as ‘Love Harry, Love’ or ‘Be A Billionaire’. Each piece is imbued with authentic Hong Kong humour, making it a hit with both locals and travellers.

MoMA Design Store

MoMA Design Store

If galleries in museums are the main courses, then souvenir shops are the desserts, and the MoMA Design Store – established in 1989 in New York – is one worth savouring. As the Asian flagship store, the branch in K11 MUSEA is the largest in the region. The interior design pays tribute to Hong Kong heritage, with galvanised panels and bamboo elements symbolising industrial developments and architectural traditions. Inside, shoppers will find exclusive items like Van Gogh’s The Starry Night puzzles, BE@RBRICK Audio 400% Bluetooth speakers and Yayoi Kusama-inspired polka-dot skateboards. Unique to Hong Kong, the store also offers a local limited-edition ‘HK Skyline’ series – perfect for bringing a piece of the city’s iconic scenery home.

Passage

Passage

Inspired by the museum experience, Passage operates cultural gift shops inside the Hong Kong Heritage Museum and the Hong Kong Space Museum. As its name suggests, Passage aims to extend your cultural journey beyond the museum walls. In addition to curating book collections related to the museums' themes and archives, Passage also specialises in creative gifts that highlight local and traditional cultural elements. These include items designed to complement specific exhibitions, such as Bruce Lee-themed merchandise inspired by the exhibition ‘A Man Beyond the Ordinary: Bruce Lee’ at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum. These unique souvenirs are definitely hard to resist.

Shanghai Tang

Shanghai Tang

When it comes to embodying Hong Kong’s ‘East-meets-West’ luxurious elegance, Shanghai Tang stands unrivalled. From the moment you enter, you’re enveloped in an air of sophistication. Inspired by the aesthetic concept of Chinoiserie, the brand reimagines traditional Chinese designs with a contemporary twist. Picture classic Zhongshan suits in neon hues, or cheongsam (aka qipao) dresses redefined with Western tailoring techniques for modern comfort and style. Beyond fashion, they also offer exquisite tableware, tea sets, lacquer boxes, photo frames and scented candles – each a modern homage to the artistry of Chinese craftsmanship.

Tea Art Gallery

Tea Art Gallery

The phrase ‘let’s have tea’ is practically a mantra for most Hong Kong people, and Tea Art Gallery at M7 (Mallory Street) invites everyone to slow down and savour this cherished ritual. Situated in a pre-war building with French windows, red brick walls and wooden staircases, this tea house is an oasis of tranquility for tea tasting. Offering an array of Chinese teas and teaware, the shop also carries rare treasures like aged pu’er teas from the 1960s to 1980s and collector’s Yixing teapots. Regularly hosting tea ceremonies and workshops, Tea Art Gallery invites visitors to reconnect with the art of tea appreciation. 

 Bookazine

The Lion Rock Press 

The Lion Rock Press began as a homegrown family business focused on creating beautifully designed greeting cards that capture the warmth of handwritten communication. In an age of digital messaging, these cards evoke nostalgia and infuse everyday life in Hong Kong with a delightful sense of humour. Over time, their collection has expanded to include high-quality Hong Kong-themed stationery, puzzles, toys and even board games, all crafted to resonate with anyone who knows and loves the city, allowing families to celebrate its charm in a fun and playful way.

Information in this article is subject to change without advance notice. Please contact the relevant product or service providers for enquiries.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board disclaims any liability as to the quality or fitness for purpose of third party products and services; and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, adequacy or reliability of any information contained herein.


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