Attention all antique enthusiasts! Hong Kong is a haven for unique and fascinating antiques due to its diverse culture, and the best place to discover these treasures is on Upper Lascar Row. The street is lined with an array of antique shops, displaying their wares on tables outside, ready for curious souls to explore in search of exotic gems, religious statues, ornate teacups, vintage Hong Kong movie posters, and even Mao's propaganda items. With such a wide variety of antiques, it's nearly impossible to leave the area empty-handed.

However, this narrow alleyway has an infamous story dating back over 160 years ago. It explains why it got divided into Upper and Lower (currently Lok Ku Road 樂古道). As Hong Kong was a British colony, lots of Muslim Indians moved to the city for new paths, and many were soldiers that served in the Royal Army. Lascar Row, just a few blocks away from the barracks on Old Bailey Street and the Lascar Temple (now Jamia Mosque), gradually became the main hub for the newcomers.

Unfortunately, there was a land-use conflict between the Cantonese and the Hokkien that led to the loss of 50 armed Indian soldiers. These soldiers were secretly recruited by one Cantonese businessman. The broken families were too devastated to sue him by asking the government's help and were later settled in the Upper Lascar Row as compensation. It definitely echoes the vibes of “Little India,” but the locals liked to name it differently - “Mo Loh Street” (摩羅街), coined from the general term “Moors” which refers to people of South Asian or Indian descent. Though it now has become a treasure trove, the alley serves as an important remnant of the Indian Hong Kongers.

Antique Street in Hong Kong is a treasure trove of unique and rare items, including jade, antiques, and historically significant pieces. It is important to note that while some ivory-related products may be present in the area, ivory trading in Hong Kong has been deemed illegal since 31st December 2021. You are advised to exercise caution when browsing the shops on Antique Street, as many of the items sold are replicas or vintage pieces that date back only as far as the early Republican period. It is recommended that tourists with a limited knowledge of antiques seek the advice of an expert before making any purchases.

Antique Street not only represents the history of antique buying and selling in Hong Kong, but it's also one of the defining features of the Sheung Wan district. It's worth spending a day in the area to fully appreciate its sophisticated atmosphere.