Goldfish Market (Tung Choi Street North),Hong Kong

Tung Choi Street North, widely known as the Goldfish Market, is a distinctive street market in Mong Kok, Hong Kong, famous for its dense concentration of pet shops, especially those selling ornamental fish and aquarium supplies. It reflects Hong Kong’s long-standing urban pet-keeping culture and the popularity of ornamental fish in Chinese tradition (symbolizing prosperity, good luck and harmony). The market also illustrates small-scale retail ecosystems in a high-density city and provides insight into local livelihoods tied to specialist trades.

Places to visit

  • Rows of aquarium and pet shops selling goldfish, koi, arowana and tropical species
  • Aquarium accessory stores with pumps, filters, lighting and custom tanks
  • Small breeders and specialist vendors offering live fish and aquatic plants
  • Nearby Flower Market and Bird Market (part of the same Mong Kok market cluster)
  • Street-level window displays filled with colorful tanks and fish — a photographer’s favorite sight

Unique Aspects

  • Dense, narrow street lined with shopfronts and window displays
  • Vivid, illuminated tanks creating a colorful nocturnal atmosphere
  • Availability of rare and common ornamental species and a wide range of aquarium hardware
  • Hands-on demonstrations and informal advice from experienced shopkeepers
  • Close integration with other specialist markets (flowers, birds, pets) in Mong Kok

Things to do

  • Browsing and buying ornamental fish, aquatic plants and aquarium equipment
  • Watching elaborate tank displays and photographing colorful fish
  • Talking with shopkeepers about fish care, breeding and tank setup
  • Comparing prices and varieties across multiple small shops
  • Exploring nearby markets (Flower Market, Bird Market, Ladies’ Market) and sampling street food in Mong Kok

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings or early afternoons for a calmer experience; early evening is atmospheric when tanks are lit but can be busier. Avoid the busiest weekend peak hours if you prefer less crowding.

Weather Conditions

Hong Kong has a subtropical climate (hot, humid summers and mild winters). The Goldfish Market is a street lined with shops — much of the experience is outdoors but many shops are covered or indoor. Carry an umbrella in summer/typhoon season and dress for humidity.

Entry Fees & Permits

No entry fee — it’s a public street market. Individual shop hours vary, but many open roughly between 10:00 and 20:00; some shops may open earlier or close later. Holiday hours vary.

Accessibility

Located in Mong Kok; the nearest MTR stations are Prince Edward and Mong Kok (both within a short walking distance). The street is pedestrian-friendly but can be crowded and has narrow sidewalks; accessible routes may be limited in busy sections.

Recommended Duration

30 minutes to 2 hours depending on interest level — hobbyists may spend more time comparing shops and consulting vendors.

Clothing & Gear Tips

Comfortable walking shoes, a light rain jacket or umbrella in wet months, a small bag for purchases, and cash (many small vendors accept cash; some accept electronic payments).

Local Food & Souvenirs

Try nearby street food in Mong Kok such as fish balls, egg waffles and local snacks. Souvenirs include fish-themed ornaments, miniature aquarium decorations and locally made ceramic or stone ornaments used in aquascaping.

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