Lascar Row, nestled between Hollywood Road and Queen’s Road Central in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, is a captivating antique haven known for its rich history and unique charm. Comprising Upper Lascar Row and Lower Lascar Row (Lok Ku Road), this area has been a bustling marketplace for over a century. Renowned as “Cat Street,” this outdoor market boasts antique shops, offering an eclectic array of items from delicate porcelain and Buddha sculptures to Maoist memorabilia and vintage furniture. In recent years, it has also become a hub for local designer boutiques and vintage clothing stores, attracting both locals and visitors.
History of Lascar Row
The name “Lascar” originates from the British colonial period, referring to sailors from the East Indies who settled in the area. The market evolved from a gathering place for Indian sailors, developing into an antique market since the 1920s. Initially known as “Antiques Street,” it gained the nickname “Cat Street” due to the sale of stolen goods, with locals likening shoppers to cats catching mice. Despite calls for a name change in 2010, the historical significance of “Lascar Row” prevailed.
Upper Lascar Row
Upper Lascar Row, also called Cat Street, is a narrow alley with a history spanning more than a century. It features an enchanting row of antique stores, offering Chinese calligraphy, arts, vintage furniture, and an array of bric-a-brac collectibles. The street’s uniqueness lies in its seemingly endless assortment of items, from Mao Zedong alarm clocks to Bruce Lee posters. The area has evolved to include not only traditional antiques but also local designer boutiques and vintage clothing stores.
Lower Lascar Row (Lok Ku Road)
Lok Ku Road specializes in traditional Chinese antiquities, presenting a distinctive range of items from green-glazed pottery of the Han Dynasty to ceramics from the Song Dynasty. With a meandering ruler shape and nearly forty antique shops, this street emphasizes archaeological and historical value. Collectors and museums often seek out its items, showcasing the high cultural significance of Lower Lascar Row.
Shopping and Products at Lascar Row
Hollywood Road and Upper Lascar Row’s antique shops offer a treasure trove of items, including copper mirrors, electric fans, jade gems, ancient coins, Qing dynasty vases, and more. The stalls, primarily street stalls, present a wide variety of merchandise, such as handmade products, souvenirs, stationery, books, and affordable antiques. Lascar Row’s streetscape, featuring multi-story old tenement buildings and green corrugated iron stalls, has preserved its nostalgic ambiance since the 1960s.
Dining at Lascar Row
Dining at Lascar Row in Hong Kong is not just an exploration of antique treasures but also an opportunity to indulge in the culinary delights of the vibrant Sheung Wan neighborhood. Near Upper Lascar Row, visitors can find the quaint Halfway Coffee, a charming café located at the Wah Koon Building. Serving beverages in retro-style Chinese porcelain cups, the café provides a fusion of Chinese and Western cultures. The unique ceramic patterns, including imprints like “Eternal Longevity,” add to the vintage ambiance, making it a perfect spot for capturing moments and enjoying a cup of coffee.
For those exploring Lok Ku Road, Lassana Coffee awaits at the Pong Fai Building, offering a serene and elegant environment. The owner, Tracy, brings a leisurely dining culture inspired by her travels abroad, providing a relaxing atmosphere to savor delicious food after a day of treasure hunting. Lascar Row’s dining scene reflects the eclectic mix of tradition and modernity, adding a delightful culinary dimension to the overall experience of this historical and cultural enclave.
Conclusion
Lascar Row in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, stands as a testament to the city’s rich heritage and vibrant marketplace culture. With Upper Lascar Row’s eclectic mix of antique stores and Lower Lascar Row’s focus on traditional Chinese antiquities, the area offers a unique blend of history, culture, and commerce. Visitors can explore a wide range of antiques, capturing the essence of Hong Kong’s past while enjoying the lively atmosphere and distinctive charm of Lascar Row. Whether you’re an antique enthusiast or a casual shopper, a visit to Lascar Row promises a fun-filled and nostalgic experience in the heart of this dynamic city.
