Shopping in Hong Kong: Bird Market
Shopping in Hong Kong: Bird Market
Introduction
When you think of shopping in Hong Kong, towering malls and bustling street markets probably come to mind first. But tucked away in the heart of Mong Kok lies a market unlike any other – the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden, commonly known as the Hong Kong Bird Market.
If you’re a traveller who loves uncovering cultural corners that feel untouched by modern retail polish, this place is for you. Here, colourful songbirds chirp melodiously from bamboo cages, vendors prepare fresh cricket feed, and elderly men sip tea while proudly showing off their prized pets. Let’s explore what makes this hidden gem a captivating – though sometimes conflicting – experience for first-time visitors.
What is the Hong Kong Bird Market?
The Bird Market isn’t just a place to shop – it’s an open-air tradition that embodies the old Cantonese pastime of songbird keeping. For centuries, owning a beautiful songbird was a sign of refinement among Chinese scholars and gentlemen. Men would bring their birds in intricate bamboo cages to parks or teahouses, appreciating their songs while socialising.
Today, the Bird Market is one of the last windows into this fading hobby. Opened in 1997 after relocating from Hong Lok Street, the market remains a popular spot for elderly locals to gather, as well as for curious travellers seeking an authentic slice of Hong Kong’s cultural tapestry.
Where is it Located and How to Get There?
The Bird Market is conveniently located in Mong Kok’s Prince Edward area.
Address: Yuen Po Street Bird Garden, Prince Edward, Kowloon
How to get there:
Take the MTR to Prince Edward Station
Exit B1
Walk about 5-10 minutes along Prince Edward Road West, following signs towards Yuen Po Street
Nearby landmarks:
Combine your visit with the Flower Market, right next door, or the Goldfish Market a short stroll away. These three make for a perfectly themed morning itinerary filled with vibrant sights and local life.
Opening Hours and Best Times to Visit
The market usually opens daily from 7:00 am to around 8:00 pm.
Best time to visit:
Visit in the early morning between 7:00 – 10:00 am. This is when the market is most lively, with bird owners gathering to feed, groom, and socialise their birds while enjoying the cooler morning breeze. The melodic chorus of hundreds of songbirds filling the air is truly a unique experience.
What Can You Buy or See There?
Whether you’re a shopper, photographer, or curious wanderer, here’s what you’ll find.
Birds of All Kinds
From tiny thrushes and finches to colourful parrots, you’ll see birds preening in delicate bamboo cages, ready for sale or simply basking in the morning sun as owners proudly showcase them.
Handcrafted Bamboo Cages
Even if you’re not planning to buy a bird, these intricate cages make beautiful traditional décor or photography props. They’re handcrafted with fine bamboo weaving, some costing hundreds of HKD depending on craftsmanship.
Bird Feed and Accessories
Fresh crickets, worms, birdseed mixes, and feeding tools line the stalls. It’s fascinating to watch vendors prepare feed with meticulous care.
Authentic Local Scenes
Perhaps the most precious takeaway here is the sight of elderly men gently cleaning their birds’ cages or chatting animatedly with fellow hobbyists. It’s a living museum of Cantonese heritage you can witness for free – though do read the ethical note below.
Ethical Concerns – What You Need to Know
Many international visitors wonder:
“Is it ethical to visit the Bird Market?”
It’s a valid question. While songbird keeping is a long-standing cultural tradition, it’s important to acknowledge that:
- Birds are kept in cages, and conditions vary between stalls.
- Some visitors feel saddened seeing animals confined for sale.
What can you do?
If you choose to visit:
- Be respectful and observe quietly.
- Avoid buying birds unless you fully understand local import/export regulations and long-term care responsibilities.
- Ask vendors politely before taking close-up photos of their birds or themselves. Most are friendly if approached with a smile and respectful gestures.
Ultimately, your visit can be seen as appreciating a traditional art form and understanding cultural practices different from your own – but it’s wise to go with open eyes and an open heart.
Is it Worth Visiting if You’re Not Buying Birds?
Absolutely. Many visitors come purely to observe or photograph.
For photographers: The Bird Market is a treasure trove of textures, colours, and authentic human moments.
For culture seekers: It’s a window into old Hong Kong, offering stories you won’t find in malls or museums.
For families: Children are often fascinated, but it can also be an opportunity to discuss animal welfare thoughtfully.
Practical Visiting Tips
Go early for the liveliest scenes and cooler weather.
Bring cash – there’s nothing to buy with a card here, and if you’re tempted by a bamboo cage or bird-shaped trinket, small bills help.
Watch your belongings in crowded areas.
Be mindful of hygiene – with birds comes droppings and insects. Wear closed shoes.
Pair with nearby markets: After your visit, stroll to the Flower Market for fresh blooms or the Goldfish Market to see tanks of shimmering ornamental fish.
Nearby Food Recommendations
After wandering through the bird stalls, reward yourself with a local breakfast. Here are a few favourites near Prince Edward Station.
Congee Breakfast
Try Yin Kee Congee (銀記腸粉), known for silky rice porridge with pork, century egg, and fresh fried dough sticks.
Dim Sum Experience
If it’s mid-morning, head to One Dim Sum near Prince Edward Station, a Michelin-recognised casual dim sum spot beloved by locals.
Coffee Break
Prefer a café vibe? Knockbox Coffee Company (10-min walk) offers specialty brews and people-watching from large windows.
Should You Go?
If you’re looking to experience the cultural soul of Hong Kong beyond skyscrapers and designer stores, the Bird Market is worth a brief visit. It’s not about buying – it’s about understanding. Watch the old men gently feed their birds, see bamboo artisans at work, and listen to the delicate melodies floating in the morning air.
Go with empathy, respect the birds, and you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the complex tapestry that is Hong Kong.
10. FAQs about Hong Kong Bird Market
Q1. Are there entry fees?
No, it’s a public market and free to enter.
Q2. Can I take photos freely?
Yes, but always ask before photographing vendors or their birds up close.
Q3. Is it open in rainy weather?
Yes, though fewer visitors come on rainy days, and some vendors may close early.
Q4. Are there public toilets nearby?
Yes, there are toilets in the nearby Flower Market and MTR stations.
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