If you are looking for some Chinese antiques and collectibles, this is a must-go place. In this treasure trove you would definitely find something at your budget.

More than 100 years ago, Hollywood Road was rather close to the coast line (see also the current position of Bonham Strand). In those days, foreign merchants and sailors would sell the antiques and artifacts they "collected" from China here on their way back to Europe. This is how Hollywood Road began its role as an antique market.

Upper Lascar Road, a narrow sidewalk running parallel to the north of Hollywood Road, was like the Bermondsey Market in London. In the old days, if you have something stolen, you are almost certain that you could find it back here. (Cantonese people called theives as rats, and the dealers who purchased goods from the rats as cats.) As time goes by, this area has evolved to suit everyone's budget. Whether you are looking for a million-dollar master piece or just some dime-a-dozen Chairman Mao Badges, you won't be disappointed.

One of the most visited temple in Hong Kong, the Man Mo Temple, is on Hollywood Road off Ladder Street. There is also the oldest western hospital, the Tung Wah Hospital, and some morticians in the area. It is said that more than 100 years ago, when the coolies died, their bodies were rested here for funeral services before they were carried back to their home villages back in the Mainland China. So you see the relationships among them: Hospital — Mortician — Temple !!

Trust only yourself. It's fine if you have the knowledge and the "eye" for the item you are buying for it is also an infamous place for fake antiques. Just look at the "dots" on Hollywood and Cat Street below, I must say that there are more than 100 shops just selling arts and antiques alone. There bound to be some crooks. Remember to bargain. If you don't have too much knowledge of what you are buying, just pay what you are comfortable with. Anyway, it's hard to price arts.

Besides, look more before you make the purchase. You might be able to find something similar next door. Write down the price and particulars so that you can make comparisons and it helps you to bargain for a better deal. If you have limited time. Go back to the basics, "just pay what you are comfortable with".