Transportation Guide to Flower Market
Getting to Hong Kong's famous Flower Market is easier than many visitors expect, thanks to the city's efficient public transportation system. Located in the heart of Mong Kok, the flower market sits perfectly positioned between multiple MTR stations, making it accessible from anywhere in Hong Kong. Whether you're staying on Hong Kong Island, in Kowloon, or arriving from the airport, this comprehensive guide provides detailed step-by-step directions to ensure you reach the vibrant blooms without any confusion.
🚇 Quick Route Summary
- Best Route: Prince Edward MTR Station, Exit B1 (2-minute walk)
- Alternative: Mong Kok MTR Station, Exit E2 (5-minute walk)
- Backup Option: Mong Kok East MTR Station, Exit A (8-minute walk)
- Peak Hours: Avoid 8-9 AM and 6-7 PM for easier navigation
From Prince Edward MTR Station (Recommended Route)
Prince Edward Station offers the most direct access to the flower market, with Exit B1 placing you virtually at the market's doorstep. This station serves both the Tsuen Wan Line (red) and Kwun Tong Line (green), making it accessible from most major destinations in Hong Kong.
Step-by-Step Walking Directions from Prince Edward MTR
Step 1: Exit Prince Edward MTR Station via Exit B1. Look for the clear English and Chinese signage directing you toward "Flower Market Road" (花市道). The exit brings you directly onto Prince Edward Road West.
Step 2: Upon exiting, turn right (east) and walk approximately 50 meters along Prince Edward Road West. You'll immediately notice the distinctive aroma of fresh flowers and the colorful displays that mark the beginning of the flower market area.
Step 3: Turn left onto Flower Market Road (花市道). The entrance is clearly marked with both English and Chinese street signs. This narrow but bustling street is lined with flower shops on both sides.
Step 4: Continue straight down Flower Market Road. The main concentration of flower shops extends for approximately 200 meters, with the highest concentration of vendors and the most diverse selection found in the middle section of the road.
💡 Navigation Tip
Download the MTR Mobile app before your visit. It provides real-time directions and can help you navigate the sometimes confusing station layouts, especially during peak hours when crowds can make signage less visible.
From Mong Kok MTR Station (Central Alternative)
Mong Kok Station serves as an excellent alternative, particularly if you're combining your flower market visit with shopping in the main Mong Kok area. This route takes you through some of Hong Kong's most vibrant street scenes.
Detailed Route from Mong Kok MTR
Step 1: Exit Mong Kok MTR Station via Exit E2, which brings you onto Nathan Road near Argyle Street. This exit is well-marked and places you in the heart of Mong Kok's shopping district.
Step 2: Walk north on Nathan Road for approximately 300 meters (about 4 minutes at a comfortable pace). You'll pass numerous shops, restaurants, and the characteristic neon signs that make Nathan Road famous.
Step 3: Turn right (east) onto Prince Edward Road West. Look for the large intersection with traffic lights—this is one of Mong Kok's major crossroads and is clearly marked with street signs in both languages.
Step 4: Walk east along Prince Edward Road West for approximately 200 meters until you reach the intersection with Flower Market Road. The flower market will be clearly visible ahead, with its characteristic colorful displays and the sweet scent of fresh blooms.
Step 5: Turn left onto Flower Market Road to enter the main flower market area.
From Mong Kok East MTR Station (Backup Route)
Mong Kok East Station provides a useful alternative, especially if you're arriving from areas served by the East Rail Line. While slightly farther than the other options, this route offers a pleasant walk through different neighborhoods.
Walking Route from Mong Kok East
Step 1: Exit Mong Kok East MTR Station via Exit A, which places you on Tai Kok Tsui Road near the Grand Century Place shopping complex.
Step 2: Walk west toward Nathan Road (approximately 400 meters). This walk takes you through a more residential area of Mong Kok, offering glimpses of local Hong Kong life away from the main tourist areas.
Step 3: Turn right (north) onto Nathan Road and walk approximately 300 meters to the intersection with Prince Edward Road West.
Step 4: Turn right (east) onto Prince Edward Road West and continue for about 200 meters to Flower Market Road.
Step 5: Turn left onto Flower Market Road to enter the flower market.
⚠️ Peak Hour Advisory
MTR stations can become extremely crowded during morning (8:00-9:30 AM) and evening (5:30-7:00 PM) rush hours. If visiting during these times, allow extra time for navigation and consider using less crowded exits.
Transportation from Major Areas
From Hong Kong Island
Central/Admiralty: Take the Tsuen Wan Line (red line) directly to Prince Edward Station. Journey time: approximately 25-30 minutes.
Causeway Bay/Wan Chai: Take the Island Line (blue) to Central, then transfer to the Tsuen Wan Line (red) to Prince Edward. Total journey time: 30-35 minutes.
North Point/Quarry Bay: Take the Island Line (blue) to Central, transfer to Tsuen Wan Line (red) to Prince Edward. Journey time: 35-40 minutes.
From Tsim Sha Tsui
Direct Route: Take the Tsuen Wan Line (red) from Tsim Sha Tsui to Prince Edward Station. Journey time: approximately 15-20 minutes. This is one of the most convenient routes for tourists staying in the Tsim Sha Tsui hotel district.
From Hong Kong International Airport
Airport Express + MTR: Take the Airport Express to Central Station, then transfer to the Tsuen Wan Line (red) to Prince Edward. Total journey time: 50-60 minutes.
Budget Option: Take Airport Express to Kowloon Station, then take the complimentary shuttle bus K1 to Nathan Road, then walk or take MTR to Prince Edward. Journey time: 60-75 minutes.
Direct Bus: Take the A21 airport bus, which stops near Mong Kok. Get off at Nathan Road/Prince Edward Road stop and walk to the flower market. Journey time: 60-90 minutes depending on traffic.
Bus Transportation Options
While the MTR provides the most efficient route, several bus lines serve the flower market area, offering scenic alternatives and sometimes more economical options for those with time to spare.
Major Bus Routes
From Central: Take bus 2A or 2X, which run along Nathan Road and stop near Prince Edward Road. Journey time: 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
From Tsim Sha Tsui: Take bus 2A, 6, or 9 northbound on Nathan Road. Get off at the Prince Edward Road stop. Journey time: 30-45 minutes.
Cross-Harbor Routes: Buses 102, 104, and 106 cross from Hong Kong Island and stop near the flower market area. These offer scenic harbor views but take longer during peak hours.
📱 Essential Transportation Apps
- MTR Mobile: Official MTR app with real-time schedules and route planning
- Citymapper: Comprehensive public transport directions including walking routes
- Google Maps: Reliable for walking directions once you exit the MTR
- HK Bus: Real-time bus arrival information for all Hong Kong bus routes
Taxi and Private Transportation
Taxi Options
Red Taxis (Urban): Available throughout Hong Kong and can drop you directly at Flower Market Road. From Central: HK$60-80. From Tsim Sha Tsui: HK$40-60. From the airport: HK$400-500.
Taxi Instructions for Drivers: Show the driver this address in Chinese: 太子道西花市道 (Prince Edward Road West, Flower Market Road). Most drivers will know the location simply as "花市" (flower market).
Private Car and Parking
Driving to the flower market is possible but not recommended due to limited parking and heavy traffic in Mong Kok. If you must drive, the nearest parking facilities include:
Grand Century Place: Large parking garage approximately 5 minutes' walk from the flower market. Rates: HK$25-30 per hour.
Mong Kok MTR Station Parking: Limited spaces available. Early arrival essential on weekends.
Accessibility Information
Hong Kong's MTR system provides good accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges, though some planning is required for the smoothest experience.
Wheelchair Accessibility
Prince Edward Station: Fully wheelchair accessible with elevators to Exit B1. The route from the exit to Flower Market Road is level with minimal elevation changes.
Mong Kok Station: Wheelchair accessible with elevator access to Exit E2. The walking route involves crossing several busy intersections but sidewalks are generally level.
Flower Market Road: The street itself is level, but some individual shops may have small steps at their entrances. Many vendors display flowers outside their shops, making viewing possible without entering.
Best Times to Visit
Timing your visit to the flower market can significantly enhance your experience, affecting everything from crowd levels to flower selection and pricing.
Daily Timing
Early Morning (7:00-9:00 AM): Best prices and selection as vendors receive fresh deliveries. Fewer crowds allow for better photography and more personal attention from vendors.
Mid-Morning (9:00-11:00 AM): Good balance of selection and manageable crowds. Ideal for first-time visitors who want to take their time exploring.
Afternoon (2:00-5:00 PM): Busiest period with many local customers. Prices may be higher, but the bustling atmosphere offers the most authentic experience.
Evening (5:00-7:00 PM): Vendors begin closing, but remaining flowers often available at discount prices.
Seasonal Considerations
Chinese New Year Period (January-February): Extremely busy with special holiday flowers and decorations. Arrive early for best selection.
Valentine's Day: Peak demand for roses. Expect higher prices and larger crowds, particularly in the afternoon.
Spring (March-May): Excellent variety of seasonal blooms with moderate crowds. Ideal time for photography enthusiasts.
💰 Money-Saving Transportation Tips
- Purchase an Octopus Card for seamless travel on all public transport
- Consider a Tourist Day Pass if making multiple MTR journeys
- Walk between nearby MTR stations instead of transferring when possible
- Use the Airport Express shuttle buses instead of taxis from the airport
- Travel during off-peak hours for more comfortable journeys
Return Journey Planning
After enjoying the flower market, you'll want efficient transportation to your next destination. The same routes work in reverse, but consider these factors for your return journey.
Carrying Flowers
Most MTR stations and trains accommodate flower purchases, but large arrangements may require special consideration. The staff at flower shops can provide protective wrapping and carrying bags suitable for public transport.
Connecting to Other Attractions
Bird Garden: 3-minute walk north from the flower market along Flower Market Road.
Goldfish Market: 5-minute walk south via Sai Yee Street.
Ladies' Market: 8-minute walk south to Tung Choi Street.
Temple Street Night Market: Take MTR from Prince Edward to Yau Ma Tei Station (one stop south on Tsuen Wan Line).
Emergency and Practical Information
Getting Help
If you become lost or need assistance, MTR stations have customer service counters with English-speaking staff. The Tourist Hotline (2508 1234) provides 24-hour assistance in multiple languages.
Language Tips
While many signs include English, learning a few key Cantonese phrases can enhance your experience:
"Fa si hai bin dou?" (花市喺邊度？) - "Where is the flower market?"
"Tai zi dow sai" (太子道西) - "Prince Edward Road West"
"Fa si dow" (花市道) - "Flower Market Road"
The journey to Hong Kong's Flower Market represents more than simple transportation—it's the beginning of an authentic cultural experience that connects you with one of the city's most cherished traditions. Whether you choose the direct efficiency of Prince Edward Station or the scenic route through Mong Kok's bustling streets, each path offers its own rewards and insights into Hong Kong's vibrant urban character. Plan your route, time your visit thoughtfully, and prepare to be enchanted by one of Asia's most spectacular floral destinations.