Gaya Street Sunday Market (Tamu) - All You Need To Know 2024 | Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, the Tamu Gaya Street Morning Market is a vibrant and bustling market held every Sunday. Vendors line the streets with stalls selling a wide variety of goods, including local fruits, cakes, handicrafts, antiques, crystal stones, fresh seafood, and vegetables. Known for its inexpensive and good-quality products, many of the items are handmade by local villagers, adding a distinctive touch to your shopping experience.

◆ Tips for Visitors:

• Arrive Early: To beat the crowds and get the best picks, aim to arrive around 6:00 AM.
• Cash is King: Most vendors prefer cash, so make sure to bring enough. However, more vendors now accept Touch 'n Go (TNG) or MAE (Maybank) as well.
• Stay Hydrated: The market can get warm, so keep hydrated and take breaks if needed.
• Bargain Politely: Bargaining is common, but always do it with a smile.
• Explore Fully: Don’t miss the hidden buzzing lane behind the Signel Poshtel, where farmers from the interior division offer fresh vegetables and traditional ingredients displayed on the floor.
• What to Wear: Dress comfortably in lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. A pair of comfortable shoes is recommended, as you may be walking and standing for extended periods. Don't forget a hat or sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun!

◆ Additional Experiences:

• Street Performers: Enjoy occasional performances by local artists, including musicians and entertainers, who add a lively atmosphere to the market.
• Commissioned Art: Local artists set up easels and offer to create personal portraits or other commissioned artwork, allowing you to take home a unique piece of art.
• Reflexology and Foot Massage: Experience reflexology and foot massage treatments provided by trained blind masseurs from the Sabah Society for the Blind, which is a popular attraction among visitors.

◆ Dining Options:

After exploring the market, treat yourself to a delicious brunch at nearby coffee shops:

• Yee Fung Laksa: Famous for Laksa and Beef Soup.
• Guan's Kopitiam Gaya Street: Serves authentic delights with a modern twist
• Fook Yuen Cafe & Bakery-Gaya Street: Known for its variety of local dishes and freshly baked goods.
• Keng Wan Hing: Known for hot buns and pastries.
• Gaya Fish Noodle: Specializes in fish noodle soup with a rich broth.
• Restoran Pak Haji 2: Famous Pisang Goreng (Banana Fried Fritters)
• Mizu Mizu Coffee: Serves enjoyable specialty coffee, premium matcha, and houjicha from Kyoto, Japan.
• Yuit Cheong: A typical Malaysian Kopitiam for delicious satay, bread and Kaya.
• Sin Seng Fatt Coffee Shop: Famous for Sang Nyuk Mee.
• Restoran Nuryana: Offers Soto and Rojak, showcasing local flavors.
• Yoyo: A popular Malaysian brand offering a variety of snacks and beverages, including bubble tea and pastries.
• Coffee Lovers: A selection of coffee spots, including Fook Yuen Coffee Shop, Mizu Mizu Cafe, Guan Kopitiam, and Kopi Nguek Nguek.

◆ Here are some popular items you can buy:

• Local Fruits: Fresh tropical fruits like durian, rambutan, mangosteen, and papaya.
• Traditional Cakes: A variety of local delicacies, including kueh lapis (layered cake), ondeh-ondeh (glutinous rice balls), and kuih ketayap (pancake filled with coconut).
• Handicrafts: Unique handmade crafts, including woven baskets, beads, and traditional clothing like batik sarongs.
• Antiques and Souvenirs: Vintage items, local souvenirs, and handicrafts that reflect Sabah’s culture.
• Crystal Stones: Beautiful and locally sourced crystal stones, often used for decoration or as collectibles.
• Fresh Seafood: Various types of fresh seafood, perfect for cooking at home.
• Vegetables and Spices: A wide selection of fresh, locally grown vegetables and traditional spices used in Sabahan cuisine.

Local Snacks: Crispy snacks like keropok (fish crackers) and various fried treats.

• Herbs and Plants: Local herbs used in traditional medicine and unique plants for gardening.
• Art and Crafts: Artwork and crafts made by local artists, including paintings and sculptures.
• Pet Products: Occasionally, you can find pet supplies or even pets for sale.
• Footwear and Accessories: Locally made footwear, bags, and accessories at affordable prices.

◆ Getting There (Recommendation):

i) By Grab

The cost of a Grab ride to Gaya Street Morning Market varies depending on your pickup location and the time of day. Generally, you can expect to pay around:

• From Pan Borneo Highway: Approximately RM 20 to RM 30.
• From Jesselton Point (a popular tourist spot): Around RM 5 to RM 10.
• From Signal Hill Observatory: About RM 10 to RM 15.

ii) Private Charter

• Enhance your visit by booking a KKday Private Charter for your Kota Kinabalu City tours! Choose from different charter options to explore other attractions after your visit to Gaya Street.
• Additionally, enjoy a convenient airport transfer that includes a 1-hour stop at Gaya Street, allowing you to experience the market before your departure to or arrival from the airport.

Whether you're looking to shop or simply experience the local culture, the Gaya Street Morning Market is a must-visit. Add it to your list of things to do in Kota Kinabalu and immerse yourself in the bustling yet charming atmosphere of this iconic market.