5 Awesome Things to Do at PMQ (元創方), A Hipster Spot in Central Hong Kong!

After an interesting breakfast at Lin Heung Tea House, we went to check out PMQ (元創方), a well-known hipster spot located in Central along Aberdeen Street. This seven-storey compound is home to many fashion boutiques, retail shops, art galleries, offices and eateries. It consists of two connected buildings named “Staunton” (Block A) and “Hollywood” (Block B). Also read: 5 Great Places to Eat at PMQ (元創方) in Hong Kong

PMQ aims to serve as a nurturing ground for local designers, entrepreneurs and artists. This was probably why we came across many interesting artisan shops here.

The historic compound has a history that can traced back to 1862, when it was originally a government school providing Western education. In 1948, the school buildings were demolished to make way for the Police Married Quarters. Subsequently, the compound was converted again to become the current PMQ in 2014.

If you like going to night markets but dislike the noise, chaos, and aggressive stall owners, then PMQ is a great alternative. This serene compound is filled with plenty of interesting shops and we had a good time browsing through them. Based on our experience here, we have compiled a list of five great things to do at PMQ. Enjoy!

1. Vivienne Tam

Vivienne Tam is a world-renowned fashion designer known for her East-meets-West designs. Her works are regularly featured on Vogue and she was even listed as one of the Top 25 Chinese Americans in Business by Forbes magazine.

The brand also has boutiques in China, Japan, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. This is the place to go if you are looking to add some high end chic clothes to your wardrobe.

Vivienne Tam
Location: Staunton (Block A) / GF / SG03 – SG07
Opening Hours: | Sun to Thurs: 11am – 8pm | Fri & Sat: 11am – 9pm |
Phone: +852 2721 1818
Website: https://www.viviennetam.com/pages/stores

2. Andrew Kayla

Andrew Kayla is a footwear brand that was established recently in 2016. The shop carries high quality suede and Italian leather shoes for both men and women.

The shoes were quite expensive and out of my budget. However, this is probably a good place to visit for people who have a taste for high quality shoes.

Andrew Kayla
Location: Staunton (Block A) / 4F / S406
Opening Hours: Daily 11.30am to 8pm
Phone: +852 2894 2281
Website: https://www.andrewkayla.com

3. Kapok

Founded in 2006 as a lifestyle brand, Kapok has evolved to become a fashion brand selling clothes, footwear, and accessories. The brand is known for its unique yet approachable design style. It has stores in both Hong Kong and Singapore.

Kapok
Location: Hollywood (Block B) / GF / HG10-HG12
Opening Hours: Daily 11am to 8pm
Phone: +852 2858 8170
Website: http://www.ka-pok.com/webshop/shop-list

4. Artisan Shops

Other than the high-end stores mentioned above, we also saw plenty of other wallet-friendly shops in PMQ selling artisan jewelries, kids’ toys, fashion accessories, home accessories, bath products, furniture, etc.

5. Art Galleries

We also came across several art studios and galleries in PMQ, featuring Chinese contemporary art, Chinese Calligraphy, Korean Art, Japanese ceramics, French Art, and more.

Conclusion

We enjoyed our visit to PMQ very much. There is a wide variety of shops here and it is definitely a nice place to spend some time browsing around. After that, make sure you check out nearby Tai Kwun too.

PMQ
Address: 35號 Aberdeen St, Central, Hong Kong
Opening Hours: Daily 11am to 8pm
Phone: +852 2870 2335
Full list of stores: http://www.pmq.org.hk/studios-shops/directory-a-z
Directions: Go out from Exit D2, and walk to the Mid Levels Escalators. Take the escalator and get off at Staunton Street. Turn right and walk for about three minutes. The entire walk should take around 15 minutes.