Joanna James
With retail therapy considered a national pastime, it should come as no surprise that Hong Kong is home to a plethora of mega malls and department stores. Here's a rundown of some of the island's most popular shopping compounds among locals and tourists.
Occupying pride of place in trendy Tsim Sha Tsui, Harbour City is a massive mall that contains an impressive 700 stores and over 50 restaurants. Considered a shopaholic's dream destination in Hong Kong the mall is also home to a mammoth Cineplex that is sprawled across 4 floors. As a tourist attraction in its own right, the 270-degree views of Victoria Harbour and the city alone make a visit to this venue well worth it.
Tourists based at Dorsett Wan Chai Hong Kong or any nearby Wan Chai hotel will be a stone's throw away from this iconic mall. The Times Square Shopping Mall is among the largest and most imposing retail structures in the city as it occupies a whopping 14 floors. Home to globally renowned fashion outlets including Marks & Spencer and DKNY, the department store is also where a large Anna Sui signature store is found.
Located in Central, the IFC Mall is one of the most conveniently situated malls in the country. With more than 200 stores under its roof, the locale which is spread out over 4 floors is a designated hub for luxury brands and products. With captivating views of Victoria Harbour at every turn, the IFC Mall is also one of the city's most popular dining hotspots as the mall's eateries have taken advantage of its harbour-facing location.
As one of the oldest retail hubs in Hong Kong, The Landmark is no less prestigious now than it was when it first opened its doors. The five-floor shopping complex is strictly for brand-conscious shoppers as the flagship outlets of many European and American fashion labels are found within the confines of The Landmark. In fact, high-end shoppers will hardly find another mall in Hong Kong that caters to their needs quite like this veritable institution.
If you shop in one mall in the heart of Kowloon, let it be at Elements. Featuring a unique design that represents the five elements according to Chinese tradition, the mall is also divided into five sections representing wood, fire, earth, water and fire. As the mall which happens to house the largest movie theatre in all of Hong Kong, Elements is also one of the few venues that can boast of its own ice skating rink.
Situated in the city centre, Pacific Place or Admiralty as it is also known is another luxurious shopping compound dedicated to all things high-end. With 130 signature outlets under its roof, the venue is actually three department stores in one.
Located down Yee Wo Street, the SOGO Japanese Department Store is the perfect place to pick up products hailing from Japan. The 19-floor complex is where famous Japanese fashion, cosmetics and accessories brands vie for attention alongside well-known toy and electronic brands made in Japan.
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