Hin Market at Hin Bus Depot, Penang: everything you need to know

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Every Sunday, the old Hin Bus Depot in George Town transforms into Hin Market; a vibrant gathering of local makers, food vendors, and artists. With additional specialist markets held on Saturdays, this is the place to soak up Penang’s creative community.

On a Sunday morning, the old Hin Bus Depot in George Town comes alive in a way that’s completely different from the rest of the city. The sound of live music drifts across the courtyard, mingling with the chatter of visitors exploring stalls of handmade crafts, vintage finds, and street food. Painted walls and vibrant murals provide a colourful backdrop, while the shadow of Komtar towers overhead. Hin Market isn’t just a place to shop, it’s a lively showcase of Penang’s creative community.

Here we share everything you need to know about visiting Hin Market, Penang.

Where to find Hin Market

Hin Market takes place at the old Hin Bus Depot on Jalan Gurdwara, just a couple of blocks away from Komtar, George Town’s central transport hub. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the George Town heritage area.

Click here for exact location.

How to get there

The Sunday market gets very busy, and parking is almost impossible if you plan to drive. The easiest option is to take a Grab.

Alternatively, you can catch a bus to Komtar and walk the 600 metres from Komtar Bus Terminal. To avoid a sweaty walk from George Town’s heritage area, you can also hop on the free George Town CAT bus, which stops at Komtar.

When is Hin Market open?

Hin Market is open every Saturday and Sunday, 11am to 5pm.

Every Sunday there is an art and craft market, food stall, and live performances. Specialist markets are held on Saturdays:

• First Saturday of the month – Grow Market (10am–5pm): A market dedicated to sustainability, eco-friendly products, plants, and green living.
• Second Saturday of the month – Kung Bros Collectors Market (10am–5pm): A treasure trove for vintage lovers and collectors, with antiques, retro items, and rare finds.
• Third Saturday of the month – The Makers Market (11am–5pm): Showcasing local artisans, designers, and handmade goods.
• Fourth Saturday of the month – Pasar Hin (11am–5pm): A community market with a rotating mix of vendors, from food to lifestyle products.

Admission is free.

The history of Hin Market

Hin Bus Depot first opened in the 1940s as a major bus station in George Town, serving routes across Penang. After closing in the early 2000s, the building sat derelict until it was revived in 2014 as an independent art space, best known for hosting murals by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic, who created several of the iconic Penang street art pieces.

Since then, the depot has become a hub for Penang’s creative community, supporting local artists, designers, and small businesses. Hin Market grew out of this transformation, bringing the space to life every Sunday with stalls selling handmade crafts, food, and art in the same creative spirit.

What to expect at Hin Market

Hin Market isn’t your typical Southeast Asian market. You won’t find fruit and vegetable stalls, hawker stalls, or rows of cheap souvenirs. Instead, it feels more like a European-style artisan market, but with Penang’s unique flavour and colour. The backdrop of vibrant street art, the mix of crafts and food, and the shadow of towering Komtar give it a distinctive setting. Add in live music and performances, and it’s no surprise the Sunday market has become one of the top things to do in Penang and an absolute must for those staying in George Town over a weekend.

Despite being set within a relatively compact space, the market is divided into five main areas:

• Food stalls
• Craft stalls
• Gallery and exhibition space
• Clothes and antiques
• Performance area

Do be prepared for crowds, as the market gets exceptionally busy.

Tips for visiting

• Arrive early or later in the afternoon if you want to avoid the biggest crowds.
• Bring some cash, as not all stalls accept cards. However, most vendors do take Touch ’n Go, Malaysia’s popular payment app.
• Check waiting times before ordering food. Some stalls serve immediately, while others can have a long wait (we were served a laksa immediately, but has a 45 minute wait at a Mexican stall).
• Support the community by purchasing from the artisans, performers, and food vendors. Don’t just browse for free, take photos, and then leave.
• Avoid driving, as parking is almost impossible. Instead, take a Grab or catch a bus to Komtar and walk the short distance.
• Check the Hin Bus Depot website or social media for the latest market updates and special events. Exhibitions run throughout the week.

Are there toilets?

Yes there are!

Final thoughts on Hin Market

Hin Market provides a lively glimpse into George Town’s modern creative scene. A couple of hours is enough to explore the food stalls, artisan booths, and gallery spaces, or stay longer to enjoy the various Sunday performers. Although do keep in mind that the market can get very busy.

Whether you’re browsing for handmade items, enjoying live performances, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Hin Market is definitely a worthwhile weekend stop.