Temple Street Night Market

Hong Kong is a city that perfectly encapsulates the word, nightlife. One of the reasons are its countless markets, including Temple Street. Located in Kowloon, this street is normally open to traffic and j-walking pedestrians until 2 PM. At that time, this street is shut down and is quickly transformed into a market of hundreds of individual stalls, selling knockoff Celvin Klien underwear, unique and interesting accessories, and much, much more. Around the area of the Temple Street Night Market are countless eateries and street food vendors as well.

As such, these night markets are one of the best places to indulge in street photography. There are simply so many potential subjects engaging in all sorts of different activities. Taking photos in the streets of Hong Kong and its inhabitants isn't easy - this city is fast-paced, crowded, random and unapologetic. However, when you get that shot, it's one of the most rewarding experiences. Here in Temple Street, vendors and customers alike are engaging in seemingly mundane tasks, but it's my task as a street photographer to capture the beauty in the mundane - it's important to see everyday life through a different perspective and simply admire it.

Unfortunately, given the nature of the 'less than legitimate' wares, I opted to not photograph near any vendors of said wares. I generally prefer to avoid interactions and confrontations from questionable individuals.

It was a surprisingly quiet evening in Temple Street.

Deep fried dough. No description is necessary to describe the sheer deliciousness of this unique snack. Not exactly the healthiest of foods, but then again, street food is what it is.

Hong Kong is littered with overhanging neon signs that seemingly defy gravity, and the Temple Street area is of no exception. 

As I chose to not photograph near any illicit goods, a good fraction of the market was left untouched. However, there is an entire road nearby dedicated to stalls of fresh fruits and veggies, meats, and the like.

Just a sample of some local purveyors and patrons in their settings.

Taxis simply don't stop operating.

But scooters are still a viable form of transportation. Commonly used for KFC and McDonald's delivery boys.

As aforementioned, Temple Street is home to a numerous locally-owned eateries with the typical Hong Kong menu.