places to visit china town

The 13 Best Things to Do in Chinatown NYC

The ultimate guide on things to do and see in chinatown nyc.

This is definitely one of the places you don’t want to miss visiting when you are in NYC. There are not only many things to do in Chinatown NYC, the history and unique character of this Manhattan neighborhood speak for themselves. You will find some amazing food, interesting street vendors, and some great photo opportunities. 

You'll also love this:

• The Best Bars in Chinatown NYC
• The Best Restaurants in Chinatown NYC
• The Best Things to Do in Downtown Manhattan

With its small streets and dense immigrant population, Chinatown NYC is the place to go if you are looking for some unusual shops, culinary delights or culture. There are many things to do in Chinatown NYC, many of which are free of charge. Definitely make sure you take an afternoon to stroll through the busy streets and let the impressions sink in.

Chinatown is easily one of the most interesting places in NYC – A must-see!

By the way: you’ll find many more New York City spots in our Loving New York travel guides .

Table of Contents

My TOP 5 Things to Do in Chinatown NYC

• Temple Mahayana:  This is the oldest Chinese temple on the east coast of the united states. (Address: 133 Canal St, Subway J Z to Canal St)
• Columbus Park:  Columbus Park is the biggest park in Chinatown and is a great place to have a seat and watch life unfold around you. (Address: 67 Mulberry St, Subway J Z to Canal St)
• Museum of Chinese in  America (MoCa) : The Museum of Chinese in America is the place to go if you want to learn more about the Chinese culture and Chinese history in NYC. (Address: 215 Center St, Subway 4 6  to Canal St)
• Super Taste:   The amazing food is reason alone to visit but with the amazing prices on offer, this is a no-brainer to get a quick and delicious bite to eat on your way through Chinatown. (Address: 26 Eldridge St, Subway F to E Broadway)
• Chinatown Ice Cream Factory:  The family-run Chinatown Ice Cream Factory has some of the best ice cream in the whole of NYC.  From adventurous flavors like Thai Iced Tea, Zen Butter, and Taro to more conventional yet equally delicious flavors like Coconut and Cherry Vanilla, everyone will find something here for their particular taste. This is a must-visit! (Address: 65 Bayard St, Subway J Z to Canal St)

Where is Chinatown located?

Chinatown is located in the heart of Downtown Manhattan . It is a city within the city with its own unique charm and character. It is surrounded by Little Italy and the Lower East Side and should definitely be on your itinerary for NYC!

How to Get to Chinatown NYC

• Subway:  The 6   N W R   Q J or Z takes you to Canal Street. You can also take the A C or  E line, which also stops on Canal Street (6th Avenue). The B D line takes you to Grand St. Station.
• Hop on Hop Off Bus : Stop 9 of the downtown loop of BIG BUS or stop 9 of the downtown loop of Gray Line Sightseeing. Here you find more about Hop on Hop off in NYC . My tip: the tickets for the buses are included in many of the New York City passes – which one is the best for you, you can see in my Pass Comparison for New York !

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From food locations, souvenir shops to museums, Chinatown NYC is a neighborhood you need to check out. Here are some spots that you should check out while you’re in Chinatown NYC:

Doyers Street (The Bloody Angle)

One of the things to do in Chinatown NYC is to visit Doyers Street or “The Bloody Angle”. This particular street has a lot of rich and dark history. This area is the location of New York City’s first Chinese language theater. On top of that, this street used to be one of America’s deadliest areas because of numerous shootings between organized gang members. Today, there’s a bunch of restaurants and is a very photogenic street.

Soho, Little Italy & Chinatown Walking Tour

Now known for their many excellent restaurants, shops and tourism, Manhattan’s SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown neighborhoods offer the most varied stories of New York City. Take a 2-hour tour with a local guide and discover hidden gems and 19th century buildings.

Enjoy the breathtaking views from The Crown Rooftop Bar

The Crown Rooftop Bar in Chinatown is one of my newest highlights of the city and made it directly into our list of the best rooftop bars in New York. It offers probably the most beautiful view of Manhattan AND Brooklyn.

Columbus Park

Columbus Park is the biggest park in Chinatown and is a great place to have a seat and watch life unfold around you. You will see that many of the locals meet here to do everything from play chess and exercise to just sitting down reading a book. It is a well known social hangout in the city and is a great place to sit down and have some of the street food you picked up in the nearby streets. 

In the morning you will see people doing Tai Chi to fuel up for the day. In the afternoon there are mainly fortunetellers and people who play cards. During the warmer months, Columbus Park becomes a popular place to escape the tumultuous Chinatown .

Chinatown Ice Cream Factory

One of our favorite things to do in Chinatown NYC is grabbing an ice cream from here and stroll through the busy streets. With amazing flavors and many unique ones at that, this is a must-try. The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory offers some of the most unique ice cream flavors in New York City!

Visit the Canal Street Market

The Canal Street Market is a great street market with many food vendors (including Korean cooking & sweets) and a small dining area. You will also find many other stalls here selling souvenirs and art which in combination with the food stalls makes this place very unique and worth visiting.

Super Taste

Here it can quickly get crowded, the shop is really super small. Super Taste is probably the best place to visit in Chinatown NYC if you are looking for some authentic and great quality noodles. The amazing food is reason alone to visit but with the amazing prices on offer, this is a no-brainer to get a quick and delicious bite to eat on your way through Chinatown.

Make sure to try the pork belly bao – one of our favorites!

Nom Was Tea Parlor: Experience Chinatown of the 1920's

This vintage dim sum parlor dates back to the 1920s and is a great place to stop and grab a bite to eat. With an extensive menu that includes tea beer and wine, it is one of the local favorites to grab some authentic Chinese food. We recommend making a reservation online as it can get busy here during lunch and dinner. Make sure to try the house special roast pork buns – delicious!

Walking Through Chinatown

When walking around Chinatown there is never a dull moment. There are always things to do in Chinatown NYC. It can get confusing when getting around. The streets are not numbered like the rest of Manhattan and there are some roads that aren’t in a grid. Also, always be aware of your surroundings as Chinatown can get really busy and really crowded fast. When you walk around, make sure to check out the different restaurants and markets. The food here is absolutely amazing.

Chinese New Year Parade

Usually, locals and tourists alike will (obviously) flock to New York City’s Chinatown to celebrate the Lunar New Year. A huge Chinese New Year Parade takes place there every year. The official name of the event is called the Lunar New Year and Festival.

The parade will down Mott and Canal Street. It will then make its way down East Broadway and head towards Manhattan Bridge, and it will ultimately end at Sara D. Roosevelt Park. During the parade, there will also be smaller activities going on in Chinatown NYC. It will have all sorts of street vendors and festivities.

Mission Chinese Food NYC

Mission Chinese Food in NYC is a trendy and hip restaurant in Chinatown, Manhattan. The restaurant is heavily influenced on Sichuanese style cuisine and is geared towards millennials. This place with its electric funk atmosphere and dim lights is the place to be if you are looking for a cool evening hangout with amazing food. Be sure to try their Mapo Tofu!

Photo from Manhattan Bridge

A very famous photo motif of Chinatown with the One World Trade Center in the background can be taken from the Manhattan Bridge. The view is unique – especially at sunrise!

Apotheke: Discover one of the best speakeasy bars in NYC

If you know, you know. Apotheke in Chinatown is one of those speakeasy types of bars that are still super trendy to go to. It still maintains the classic look and almost speakeasy vibe from back in the days.

Attractions in Chinatown

Many of New York’s major New York attractions  like the 9/11 Memorial & Museum or the One World Observatory are located in Lower Manhattan and are therefore easily reachable from Chinatown. But Chinatown also has some unique attractions to offer – namely these:

One of the pioneers of the Chinatown gallery scene, CANADA opened in 2000 and has been a major institution, not a typical gallery, ever since.

02 Columbus Park

03 Front Room Gallery

The Front Room Gallery has been a one stop shop for art enthusiasts since it opened in 1999. They are a contemporary fine arts gallery that started in Brooklyn and have moved to Chinatown on Hester Street. Many of their pieces are tied back to social responsibility including political, environmental, and social topics.

Their focus is on exhibiting photography, conceptual and installation based work by emerging artists as well as mid-career ones with an emphasis placed primarily on photographic images but also including sculpture or video installations. The Front Room Gallery has exhibited the work of several artists, including Ken Ragsdale, Thomas Broadbent, Paul Raphaelson, Patricia Smith, Sean Hemmerle, and more. In addition to its exhibition program, the gallery also organizes artist talks, screenings, and performances.

04 Magenta Plains Gallery

Magenta Plains is a contemporary art gallery located in Chinatown directed by Olivia Smith, Chris Dorland and David Deutsch. Magenta Plains is a young gallery with a relatively small program that prioritizes artists with unique voices, like Ebecho Muslimova and Alex Kwartler. Their strength lies in the careful selection, prioritizing quality over quantity and fostering context and meaning for the development of new ideas.

05 Mahayana Temple

This is the oldest Chinese temple on the east coast of the united states. It is a beautiful expression of Chinese culture and architecture and is open to the public year-round. On the weekends you will also find Buddhist services taking place here often completely in Mandarin. Bring a dollar for a fortune!

06 Museum of Chinese in America (MoCA)

The Museum of Chinese in America is the place to go if you want to learn more about the Chinese culture and Chinese history in NYC. The main and permanent exhibition  With a Single Step: Stories in the Making of America  is a great place to find out more about the last 160 years of Chinese history in NYC. With 2+ rotating exhibitions on top of this, the MoCa is definitely worth a visit.

07 The Bloody Angle

Many of the attractions and tours in Chinatown NYC are included in one of the New York City passes. So you can easily and quickly save up to 70% – how does it work?

You can see that in my ultimate 👉   New York Pass comparison , here you can see my personal 👉   New York Pass Reviews after more than 20 visits to New York and our free New York Pass Advisor answers the question: “ Which New York Pass is the best? ”

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Best Guided Tours

There are a lot of very popular tours where New York guides show you the best parts and the history of this neighborhood:

01 Chinatown and Little Italy Food Fest

Explore the flavors and traditions of  New York’s Chinatown and Little Italy during this exciting food tour. You’ll leave with a full stomach and lots of interesting information about the history and culture of these two neighborhoods.

02 Sidewalks and Skyscrapers: Street Art Is This Way

This walking tour shows that there is also street art and graffiti worth seeing in Manhattan. You start your exploration in Soho , and then in two hours learn the stories behind the large and small works of art. Some of the graffiti is an impressive 20 meters high, so always have your cameras ready!

If guided tours interest you, be sure to check out the Best Walking Tours NYC !

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Best Restaurants in Chinatown NYC

Chinatown is a prime spot for food. From authentic noodles to roasted duck and amazing street food at the Canal Street Market, there are endless possibilities to satisfy any taste. We have listed our favorite restaurants below for you to try.

01 Chinatown Ice Cream Factory

The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory offers some of the most unique ice cream flavors in New York City.

02 Great NY Noodletown

Great NY Noodletown is a noodleshop, Chinese restaurant in Chinatown located right next to the Manhattan Bridge. Great insider tip for this area!

03 Happy Veggie

Happy Veggie is a relaxed and casual vegetarian restaurant that serves Asian-fusion cuisine in Chinatown. Their menu contains all the classics, such as…spring rolls, fried wontons, edamame, noodles, and buns. And there are many raving reviews about their veggie spam musubi with avocado, as well as their homemade spinach dumplings in particular. Plus, in addition to dining in, you can also access these delicious dishes via curbside pickup and no-contact delivery.

04 Joe's Shanghai

Here you get the probably the best duck in town. This restaurant has already won an award from the New York Times. Also recommendable is the Joe’s Shanghai soup with dumplings.

05 Kopitiam

If you’re near Straus Square and want a unique brunch, check out Kopitiam. This jewel serves Malaysian cuisine and offers brunch all day, every day. In fact, stepping inside feels like teleporting to a bustling cafe in Kuala Lumpur, minus the jet lag.

Whether you’re in a rush or looking to have a last-minute brunch, Kopitiam’s counter service is designed to accommodate. I must say, the Malaysian Style Egg French Toast is simply a must-try, as is the Nasi Lemak – it’s the national dish of Malaysia for a reason! Brunch at Kopitiam is an international delight without leaving NYC. In fact, some even say that Kopitiam offers the best brunch Lower East Side.

• Vanessa’s Dumpling House (118 Eldridge St, New York, NY 10002)

One of our favorite places things to do in Chinatown NYC is grab some authentic food, and if you like us, are looking for something to excite your tastebuds this is the place to go. Vanessa’s Dumpling House features a great menu of classics including dumplings, sesame pancake sandwiches, noodles, and soups. This place is definitely worth a visit if you are looking for some comfort food.

Looking for more recommendations? We’ve got you covered!

Here you find the Best Restaurants in Chinatown  and the Best Chinese Restaurants in NYC .

Best Bars in Chinatown NYC

The bar is very popular with New Yorkers, the prices are sensational and the audience is mixed. Colourful is also the bar and for this reason alone worth a visit.

02 Apotheke

03 Bowery Beer Garden

If you’re close to Chinatown, be sure to check out the Bowery Beer Garden. This open-air space is located at 93 Bowery and is more pandemic-friendly than other venues. Offering over 50 big-screen televisions and 40 different brews of beer, Bowery is NYC’s most extensive sports beer garden, so watching March Madness at this spot is a no-brainer! If you get hungry, be sure to opt for house specialties such as loaded garlic shrimp fries or beer garden wings. 

04 Rooftop93 Bar & Lounge

You will find the bar on the 18th and 19th floors of the Wyndham Garden Hotel. On the roof terrace you can have cocktails and enjoy the view of the One World Trade Center and the Empire State Building.

05 The Crown

Here you find the Best Bars in Chinatown NYC  and the  Best Rooftop Bars in Chinatown NYC .

Shopping in Chinatown NYC

Chinatown NYC is filled with colorful shops packed with souvenirs and unique items. You will also see a lot of fakes like Louis Vuitton bags or Rolex watches.

Please keep in mind, if you do purchase any of the fake items, there’s a chance you might encounter problems going through customs.

There is also a great and very unique minimalist store called Project No. 8 and has selections from local designers. If you want your own personal chopsticks, check out Yunhong Chopsticks Shop. If you are looking for places to shop in Chinatown NYC however, all you need to do is take a stroll around.

Hotels in Chinatown NYC

If you are looking to stay in Chinatown, look no further. Below are our favorite places to stay:

Hotel 50 Bowery

4 Stars | Hotel 50 in Chinatown New York is a stylish boutique hotel with a cool roof terrace and very stylish rooms. You’ll be right in the middle of the action and within easy walking distance of great spots like the Lower East Side, East Village and Soho. 

Despite its location, it is one of the affordable hotels with a view. And the view is really stunning: you can see all of Midtown Manhattan with its incredible skyline. The Empire State Building, Summit One Vanderbilt, Hudson Yards and the Chrysler Building are literally at your feet!

Mimosa Hotel Chinatown

3 stars | The Mimosa is one of the most authentic and best value for money accommodations in New York’s Chinatown. Its location in the heart of this popular neighborhood makes it especially popular with Asian travelers. The rooms are always very clean and the service is excellent. 

Mulberry Hotel

3 stars | The Mulberry is a basic hotel but in very good condition. Always clean and with attentive and efficient service and great value for money for this area of Downtown Manhattan. The best part? Some rooms even have terraces overlooking the city!

Its location just a few meters from one of the city’s main subway stations makes it ideal for sightseeing and shopping days.

Nine Orchard

4 stars | Located at the intersection of Chinatown and the vibrant Lower East Side (LES) in Downtown New York, Hotel Nine Orchard is a stylish hotel housed in a significant historic building. This building, the former Jarmulowsky Bank, has been carefully restored and transformed into an elegant hotel and culinary destination. Opened in 2022, the boutique hotel offers 113 rooms and suites furnished in the architectural gem dating back to 19123.

The redevelopment of the neoclassical bank building into a luxury boutique hotel blends harmoniously into the energetic neighborhood. Guests are welcomed with an atmosphere of relaxed glamor and excellent cuisine, with restaurants by Ignacio Mattos, among others, inviting guests to linger. The Hotel Nine Orchard thus offers a combination of historic elegance and modern comfort and represents the creative soul of New York City.

Walker Hotel Tribeca

4 stars | This beautiful boutique hotel is strategically located between the Tribeca and Chinatown neighborhoods, two of the most unique areas of New York. Its location, combined with its beautiful design of sober lines and colors, makes the Walker Tribeca one of the ideal places to rest after a busy day discovering the city. 

Recommended article: The Best  Hotels in Chinatown NYC .

Neighborhoods Nearby

Here are some neighborhoods that are walking distance from Chinatown NYC:

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20 Best Things to Do in Chinatown NYC (Written by a Local NYer!)

If you’re planning things to do in Chinatown NYC, you’re in the right place!

Chinatown Manhattan is part of the city that overflows with history, cultural character, and of course, enough good eats to make you want to return again and again.

To put together this guide, I’ve used my 20+ years of living in New York City. During that time, I’ve shopped, eaten, and strolled through Chinatown more times than I can count. It’s such a fascinating area that I’ve even done a few staycations there just so I could take more time to experience the neighborhood.

I hope you’ll use this guide not just as your what to do in Chinatown NYC checklist, but also as a window into discovering and savoring everything the neighborhood is about.

Ready to explore New York City’s Chinatown? Let’s go!

Where is Chinatown in NYC?

First, let’s take a moment to get positioned in the right part of New York City. If you visualize the island of Manhattan as a long oval-ish shape, Chinatown would be towards the bottom-right of that oval. More properly, Chinatown is on the lower east portion of the island. This would be diagonally opposite to a neighborhood like the Upper West Side .

Chinatown shares boundaries with other popular neighborhoods like Little Italy, Soho, Tribeca, and the Lower East Side. It’s also not far from areas like Nolita (North of Little Italy) and the Financial District.

Something really unique about this part of New York City is that you can actually see the dividing line between neighborhoods. Like on Mulberry Street, you can look in one direction and see Little Italy and turn the other way to see Chinatown!

Map of Chinatown NYC

On the NYC Chinatown map above, you’ll find all the places mentioned in this guide of the best things to do in Chinatown New York City.

As you can see, many of them are clustered around the small area that is the heart of Chinatown. Given how close many of these places are, the neighborhood can be explored in as little as a few hours depending on how many times you stop to eat!

Directions to Chinatown NYC

It’s really easy to take the subway to Chinatown NYC. Many trains run through the area.

Canal Street is a main street that runs from east to west across Manhattan. It slices directly through Chinatown, which is on Manhattan’s lower east section.

The best option is to take the N, Q, R, W, J, Z, or 6 train to the Canal Street stop. This brings you directly into Chinatown.

If you look at a map of the NYC subway, the N, Q, R, and W trains are the yellow lines. These trains make several stops through midtown, the theater district, Herald Square, Greenwich Village , and Soho. In fact, if you’ve taken the R or W train to Prince Street in Soho already, it’s easy to walk into Chinatown from there, as well.

The 6 train is indicated in green on the subway map. It runs along Manhattan’s east side. So for example, if you were near Grand Central Terminal visiting The Summit at One Vanderbilt , the 6 train would be a great option to hop down to Chinatown.

The J and Z trains might be helpful if you’re coming from Brooklyn, sightseeing in the financial district , or finishing a visit to the Statue of Liberty . This is the line shown in brown on the NYC subway map.

Another option is to take the B or D line to Grand Street. On the map, this is the line in orange. The Grand Street stop leaves you just 1 block from the Bowery and 2 blocks from where Canal Street meets the entrance to the Manhattan Bridge.

If you’re already in Lower Manhattan , it might be just a short walk to Chinatown. Particularly, if you were visiting the Brooklyn Bridge or shopping in Soho, you can get to Chinatown on foot in no time.

20 Best Things to Do in Chinatown NYC

On the list below, you’ll find everything from the best places to eat in Chinatown NYC, museums, historic streets, and iconic spots not to miss as you spend time in Chinatown on your very own self-guided tour!

1. Mott Street

Mott Street is the heart of Chinatown. It’s lined with Chinese restaurants and shops and adorned with lantern lighting overhead (like several other streets in Chinatown) that comes to life once the sky is dark.

During the day, Mott Street is a hive of activity during the day with residents shopping at the local markets for fish, fruits, and veggies. If you haven’t tried the fruit “rambutan,” I highly recommend it! It’s small-ish and round with a red/pink spiky exterior. (It’s not dragon fruit.) Just break the shell open with your fingers and eat the white fruit inside, watching out for a small pit.

Also, as you walk along Mott Street, stop to admire the Church of Transfiguration. It’s a historic stone church that dates back to 1801. This New York City Landmark has come through fire, near abandonment, neighborhood gang violence in the late 1800s and early 1900s, and waves of newcomers from Irish to Italian to Chinese immigrants living in the surrounding tenement buildings.

2. Nom Wah Tea Parlor

Serving up classic dim sum dishes for over 100 years, Nom Wah Tea Parlor is a historic icon in New York City’s Chinatown. It’s located on Doyer’s Street where you’ll often see a line of people waiting to get seated in one of the classic red booths. They do take some reservations for parties of 3-5 people so it’s worth a try to avoid the line. As you’d imagine, between 12 p.m.-2 p.m. and 6 p.m.-8 p.m. are the busiest times.

While it may not be the best dim sum in Chinatown NYC, the Nom Wah’s dim sum dishes are certainly delicious! Go for the scallion pancakes, shrimp rolls, pork buns, and their classic egg rolls. You can’t say you’ve experienced Chinatown in NYC until you’ve visited Nom Wah!

ProTip: While Nom Wah Tea Parlor has earned its place in Chinatown history, for Michelin-Star-rated Dim Sum, head to Dim Sum Go Go on East Broadway near the Kimlau Memorial Arch. The Cantonese-style dumplings, soups, rice rolls, and siu mai are the dishes to try!

3. Fried Dumpling

Located on tiny Mosco Street, Fried Dumpling’s unassuming storefront is easy to miss. But that would be a shame because it’s known for having some of the best dumplings in Chinatown NYC! It’s also one of the most delicious and cheapest bites you’ll find anywhere in New York City.

For just over $1 (cash only), you’ll get a made-to-order paper dish with 5 crispy dumplings. Dip them in the special soy sauce for a perfect snack at any point when you’re in the mood to nosh! (NYC slang meaning to snack on something.)

Take your dumplings and, if you can resist for just 1 moment, head to Columbus Park.

4. Columbus Park

When you visit a park in New York City, you get the opportunity to glimpse the daily life of the New Yorkers who live in that neighborhood. With few private outdoor spaces, public parks quickly become hives of activity.

Columbus Park is no different. Part outdoor activity space and part community gathering spot, it’s a window into Chinatown. On any given day, you’ll find kids playing basketball, tai chi classes in session, groups of people gathering to play mahjong, and musicians playing their jinghu (a bowed stringed instrument) on the park’s benches.

The rectangular-ish shaped park is located between Baxter and Mulberry Streets and Worth and Bayard Streets just steps from Fried Dumpling on Mosco Street. Grab some fried pork dumplings and savor them while people watching from a bench in Columbus Park!

5. The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory

You might be wondering, ice cream ? I can get ice cream anywhere! Except here the local flavors are ones that are unique to Chinatown and the exotic flavors are chocolate and vanilla!

My recommendation is to stay away from the exotic flavors and go with Manhattan’s Chinatown favorites. My favorite flavor is don tot with its creamy egg custard taste, but people line up outside this Bayard Street storefront to get cones or cups of lychee, almond cookie, red bean, and black sesame ice cream!

And if you’re not sure which one to get, ask for a taste. They’ll happily give you a small spoonful to sample.

6. Mei Lei Wah Bakery

Just across the street from the Chinatown Ice Cream Factory on Bayard Street, don’t be surprised if you see a line of people waiting to order at Mei Lei Wah Bakery. Of all the bakeries in Chinatown NYC, it’s the most popular spot for pork buns and pineapple pork buns. Even better, it’s one of the cheapest treats you’ll find in all of NYC!

Don’t be put off by the line. It moves quickly. There’s a counter to order where it’s cash only, but also kiosks where you can order and pay with a credit card. The bakery is only open until 7:30 p.m. but it’s better to go earlier in the day anyway for fear the famed pork buns sell out!

7. Crown Rooftop Bar

Located on top of the Hotel 50 Bowery Hotel, the Crown Rooftop Bar has one of the best rooftop views of Manhattan. From its position on the 21st floor, you can see the Empire State Building and midtown skyscrapers to the north and One World Trade Center in the southwestern panorama.

What makes the views extra special here, though? You can see east to west from the Hudson River to a stunning view of the Manhattan Bridge arch and Colonnade. If you’re there for dusk, you’ll get the added effect of the red brake lights from the traffic pulsing across Canal Street.

The Crown opens at 5 p.m. during the week, and earlier in the afternoon on weekends. If you’re in NYC on a family trip, kids can get up to the indoor or outdoor terrace with a 21+ adult before 9 p.m. The Crown does serve small bites in addition to drinks.

8. Manhattan Bridge Arch & Colonnade

Built in 1915 on the Manhattan entryway of the bridge at the intersection of Canal Street and the Bowery, you might be a bit taken aback to find such a grand piece of architecture in this spot.

The Beaux-Arts arch and the columns on either side form a curving oval-like shape and include ornamental elements that include stone carvings, animals, and classical sculptures. While the Brooklyn Bridge may be New York’s most famous bridge (and my personal fave), the Manhattan Bridge and its entryway shouldn’t be missed on a trip to Chinatown!

If you have some time to spare, walk up onto the pedestrian walkway on the right side of the bridge. There are various points for taking photos of the NYC skyline including the “hole-in-the-fence” shot which looks back over Chinatown and has One World Trade Center in the distance.

If you decide to make the complete walk, you’ll end up walking just over a mile and getting to the trendy DUMBO neighborhood of Brooklyn, not far from the Brooklyn side of the Brooklyn Bridge.

9. Mahayana Buddhist Temple

This is the biggest Buddhist Temple in New York City with the biggest golden Buddha statue in the city, as well. It’s located just across from the Manhattan Bridge arched entryway and the Crown Rooftop so it’s easy to check a few things off your Chinatown list all within a single block.

Remember, this is a house of worship. The Temple asks that visitors be dressed modestly to enter.

In New York City’s Chinatown, finding delicious food isn’t an issue. There’s plenty to go around. It’s more about having enough space to taste everything you want to taste! And Wo Hop deserves some of that prized real estate. And in my humble opinion, Wo Hop has the best Chinese food in NYC’s Chinatown!

I’ll be totally honest and say that I have not eaten at every place in Chinatown. (However, I’ve certainly done a lot of homework!) Wo Hop is the best I’ve tasted, especially when it comes to classics like lo mein, dumplings, and main dishes in garlic or black bean sauce!

Wo Hop is a no-frills restaurant on Mott Street just past Mosco Street. The restaurant is actually on the basement level so you have to walk down a flight of stairs. Expect it to be busy! But trust me, waiting for a table is worth it.

Also, Wo Hop is cash only so be sure to have some on hand.

11. The Museum of Chinese in America

This museum houses a vast archive of Chinese history in America. Unfortunately, in January 2020, a fire destroyed the building where the museum was. Although the 85,000+ artifacts telling the stories of Chinese Americans were not burned, the majority of the collection was damaged by the water to put the fire out.

Restoration work continues even today to save precious pieces of history. The museum is in a temporary space on Centre Street between Howard and Grand Streets and has limited hours. However, if you’re in Chinatown on a Saturday, plan a little time to visit the museum. You can even opt to “sponsor an object” if you’d like to help with the restorations.

12. Doyers Street (Bloody Angle)

This uncharacteristically curved street in New York City has a notorious place in history. At the start of the 20th century, Doyers Street was the scene of many fights between rival Chinese gangs vying for territory. This is how it was nicknamed Bloody Angle.

Today, though, the street is painted and outdoor tables are clustered outside the street’s restaurants which include Nom Wah Tea Parlor and Tasty Hand Pulled Noodles.

13. Pell Street

When you turn onto Pell Street from Mott, your senses will tell you that you’ve left NYC. The signs are written in Chinese characters. Your nose can’t miss the smell of ginger, soy sauce, and garlic. Standing on Mott Street and looking down Pell, don’t miss the chance to snap a photo of this iconic street.

With New York’s Chinatown being spread out over many streets and other nearby neighborhoods bumping up against its borders, Pell Street feels as if you’re thoroughly entrenched in the Chinatown experience.

ProTip: If you walk to where Pell Street meets the Bowery, you’ll get the Edward Mooney House. The house, built in the late 1780s, is now a New York City landmark. Heads up, though! It’s recently been covered with scaffolding as work to repair and restore the house is ongoing.

14. Kimberly Spa

If your feet and body are sore from too much walking and sightseeing, a massage in Chinatown NYC is just the thing to soothe sore muscles.

Kimberly Spa is located just off Canal Street on Elizabeth Street. The word “spa” is a bit of a misnomer as the interior is basic with foot bath chairs and massage rooms divided by curtains. But, it’s the perfect respite from the busy city offering foot and body massages by fantastic masseurs at even better prices.

15. Canal Street Market

Located at 265 Canal St. near Lafayette Street, Canal Street Market is a food hall and retail space that fuses Lower Manhattan and Chinese culture with its carefully chosen vendors. The space isn’t very big so it won’t take long to walk and browse through the market.

Along the way, be sure to taste some wontons at Joe’s Noodles & Rice!

16. Joe’s Shanghai

Joe’s Shanghai is a popular spot in Chinatown famous for its soup dumplings, a dim sum essential. It’s what you’ll see the majority of people eating, so if you go, be sure to get yourself an order, too! These are different than regular dumplings or buns even if they look similar from the outside. Inside, they’re filled with hot soup and usually pork.

The Chinatown location is on the Bowery, just next to Hotel 50 Bowery and across from the Manhattan Bridge entrance. The restaurant is open until 10 p.m. which is late compared to other places in Chinatown and it’s not uncommon to find a line outside even well past a typical dinner hour. Bring cash because cards aren’t welcome.

17. Kimlau Memorial Arch

This monument is located in Chatham Square, just steps from where Mott and Doyers Streets end at the Bowery.

The arch is in honor of Chinese-American military veterans who died fighting in World War II. The monument gets its name from Second Lieutenant Benjamin Ralph Kimlau, an American fighter pilot who died during an attack against the Japanese close to New Guinea.

While a monument like this often isn’t the top reason you’d visit Chinatown, it’s good to understand its significance as you walk through the neighborhood.

18. Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles

On Doyer’s Street a few storefronts down from Nom Wah Tea Parlor, you’re likely to find a hive of activity around Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles. There are tables set up outside and an unassuming (cash-only) restaurant and kitchen inside serving up delicious pan-fried noodles.

Pulled noodles are made from wheat-based dough. As the name implies, the dough is pulled and stretched to make long noodles. They are cooked right after for a super fresh taste!

Go for the knife-cut/knife-peeled noodles pan-fried with your choice of vegetables and protein. The portions are generous but if you’re particularly peckish, order some dumplings, too. They’re also so tasty!

19. Ting’s Gift Shop

I couldn’t in good faith write a guide for Chinatown NYC and not include Ting’s Gift Shop! It’s a place I always stop by when I’m in the neighborhood. Perhaps it’s the teacher in me, but the store always reminds me of the trinket shop in Chinatown featured in the children’s book The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden.

The tiny shop is on the corner of Pell and Doyers Streets, just steps from Nom Wah Tea Parlor and Tasty Hand Pulled Noodles. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a souvenir or two, from painted chopsticks to card games to a handy back scratcher.

20. Mmuseumm on Cortlandt Street

On the fringes of Chinatown, in a wedge of New York dedicated to courthouses and government offices, you’ll come across NYC’s smallest museum, Mmuseumm. What you’ll find are curated, unusual objects from modern history meant to get you thinking. The entire museum is housed in something similar to a walk-in closet (also a rarity in NYC).

Mmuseumm is located at 4 Cortlandt Alley and is open only during warmer months, usually Spring to Fall. The visit doesn’t take long given its size but it’ll likely end up being one of the quirkiest and most interesting places you’ll visit near Chinatown.

Best Hotel in Chinatown NYC

Hotel 50 Bowery is a Hyatt property located just off Canal Street and across from the entrance to the Manhattan Bridge. The views, especially from the upper floor rooms, are spectacular. The hotel has a boutique flair that encompasses the culture of the neighborhood.

Compared to some hotel rooms you might find in Manhattan, Hotel 50 Bowery’s rooms are roomy and have an upscale feel. Hotel guests can also access the Crown Rooftop Bar by using the hotel’s elevators to have a drink or just enjoy the gorgeous city skyline views.

Wondering about staying directly in Chinatown? It wouldn’t be my first choice as a first-timer in New York City . Neighborhoods like midtown and Chelsea are the typical areas to stay.

However, not only is Chinatown and its subway stops accessible to move around the city, but you can also easily walk to other neighborhoods like Little Italy, Nolita, and Soho. If you’ve been to NYC previously and feel comfortable navigating the subway, Chinatown can be a good way to experience a different neighborhood while still being well-connected to other areas throughout the city.

Chinatown NYC FAQs

Is Chinatown safe?

Chinatown NYC is safe to walk around. During the day, the area is busy with residents, tourists, and traffic moving throughout the neighborhood. At night, Chinatown’s main streets, like Mott, Elizabeth, Pell, and Doyers have many restaurants open until 9 p.m. and some until 10 p.m. Keep in mind, in general, Chinatown is quieter at night. Markets and shops are mostly closed with a few exceptions.

Is Chinatown New York worth visiting?

Absolutely, yes! Chinatown in Manhattan is a vibrant cultural neighborhood with interesting history and fantastic food!

How long should I spend in Chinatown NYC?

You could easily walk through the neighborhood in just a couple of hours. However, if you plan to incorporate your own DIY foodie tour, stopping frequently to taste as you go, you’ll need more time. The same goes if you plan to get a massage or visit the Museum of Chinese in America.

Is Chinatown NYC cash only?

While there are places that accept credit cards, many shops, markets, and restaurants are cash only. If there’s 1 NYC neighborhood where it’s good to have cash on hand, it’s Chinatown.

What street should I shop on in Chinatown NYC?

Canal Street is the main street where most people look for shops and street vendors. In reality, you can find places throughout Chinatown to shop. Keep in mind, as tempting as buying a knockoff might be, it can be associated with more nefarious elements. Better to support local shops like Ting’s, Wing on Wo & Co., Grand Tea & Imports, and KK Discount.

New York City Chinatown

From the food in Chinatown to its cultural character and history, you’ll want to include Chinatown as you put together your New York City itinerary !

The essence of NYC flows from its distinct neighborhoods that are influenced by the people who live there. When you take the time to get to know a neighborhood like Chinatown, you begin to grasp what the real NYC is all about.

So, what would you like to see and do in Chinatown NYC?

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21 Amazing Things To Do in Chinatown NYC (+ Map!)

Author --> August 28, 2023

With lots of fun things to do in Chinatown NYC , the neighborhood of Chinatown is a must-visit if you’re going on a trip to New York City.

Whether you like seeing art, having delicious food, seeing great sights, or exploring beautiful parks and streets, there are many activities you will love in this neighborhood in Manhattan.

In this guide, you can find everything you need to know if you’re wondering what to do in Chinatown. From great museums to interesting tours to incredible sights, I included a large variety of activities in this guide so there’s something for everyone’s liking!

Best Things To Do in Chinatown NYC

Go to the museum at eldridge street.

The Museum at Eldridge Street is a museum that you can find a 12 Eldridge Street and it is inside the historic Eldridge Street Synagogue.

This synagogue was built in the year 1887 and is a National Historic Landmark. The synagogue is a symbol of the Jewish migration to the Lower East Side.

When you go to this museum, you can learn about the life of Jewish immigrants, see beautiful architecture, and learn about various cultures.

You can do a tour of the building by yourself, but it is also possible to join a public guided tour during which docents tell you about the synagogue. These tours take place several times per week.

Address: 12 Eldridge St, New York, NY 10002

Do a Chinatown Food Tour

Chinatown has a lot to offer, and this includes many great restaurants. If you want to get to know the food that this neighborhood has to offer, one of the best things to do in Chinatown is a Chinatown food tour .

During this tour, which you can do during lunchtime or dinnertime, a guide will take you to various eateries in Chinatown, and at those places, you can try out food.

For example, you can try Hong Kong-style sponge cakes during this tour. Also, you’ll visit a dumpling place where you can sample great dumplings.

In addition to that, you’ll learn about the history of the neighborhood and learn about a lot of interesting facts.

Moreover, this tour also includes a tour of the Little Italy neighborhood and you can also sample Italian food during the tour.

See a Movie at Metrograph

Metrograph is a movie theater that you can find in Manhattan’s Chinatown at 7 Ludlow Street.

This is a retro movie theater with a beautiful and elegant interior, wooden cushioned chairs, and red carpet, which adds a lot to your experience! Metrograph has an amazing cozy atmosphere.

You can go here to see all kinds of independent films, and what’s great is that you can see a selection of these movies on 35mm.

Moreover, you can get all kinds of delicious drinks and snacks at the movie theater. It is even possible to go here for dinner or brunch! The restaurant of the movie theater is inspired by the golden age of Hollywood.

Address: 7 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002

Explore Canal Street

Canal Street is one of the most famous streets in NYC and in the neighborhood.

This is an east-west street that runs through Chinatown but also through other neighborhoods.

You can find a lot of vendors on Canal Street. These vendors sell a large variety of gifts and other novelty items, and there are also vendors that sell many different types of food items.

Furthermore, you can find a lot of Chinese bakeries and restaurants on and near Canal Street.

Get Sweet Treats and Coffee at Sweet Moment NYC

If you like sweet treats and coffee, a great activity in Chinatown is checking out Sweet Moment NYC.

This is a dessert cafe where you can get delicious drinks made with La Colombe coffee. What’s great is that the baristas at Sweet Moment NYC create amazing latte art. For example, you can get a drink with a cute face on it.

In addition to that, you can get delicious in-house pastries and cookies at Sweet Moment NYC, and this place is known for its delicious shaved ice with many different flavors.

Address: 106 Mott St Frnt P, New York, NY 10013

Learn New Things at the Museum of Chinese in America

The Museum of Chinese in America is an interesting museum where you can learn about Chinese-American history.

At the museum, you can learn about the living history of Chinese Americans, and you can also learn about culture and heritage here.

There is a permanent exhibition that focuses on the complete Chinese American history, and this permanent exhibition is combined with temporary ones that take place throughout the year.

Each temporary exhibition focuses on a particular type of subject related to history or art.

For example, in the past, there was an exhibition about the impact of the Chinese on the American railroad. There was also an exhibition that focused on Chinese food in America.

Address: 215 Centre St, New York, NY 10013

Get Latte Art at Round K by Sol

Round K by Sol is a wonderful cafe that you can find at 78 Canal Street and going there is a very relaxing thing to do in Chinatown. You can get great coffee and brunch at this cafe.

Round K by Sol is a Korean cafe and bar, and the food and drinks that you can get here are inspired by Korean culture.

Moreover, the food at this cafe is made with Korean ingredients.

You can get amazing coffee here, which includes latte drinks with beautiful latte art. For example, you can get a matcha latte here with a latte artwork of an animal. Furthermore, you can get all kinds of teas here, such as Yuja Honey Tea.

In addition to that, you can also try unique Korean flavor cocktails and mocktails at this place.

Address: 78 Canal St, New York, NY 10002

Check Out the Chinatown Ice Cream Factory

The Chinatown Ice Cream Factory is an ice cream store that has been operating in Chinatown since the year 1978 and you can get delicious homemade ice cream here. You can find this place at 65 Bayard Street.

There are many interesting, unique, and tasty regular flavors to choose from. For example, the Black Sesame ice cream can be great to try and so are the Green Tea, Lychee, and Durian flavors.

In addition to that, there are seasonal flavors of ice cream. For example, you might be able to get blueberry ice cream, chocolate caramel ice cream, or cherry pistachio ice cream when you check out this place.

Furthermore, you can get their signature Chinese ice cream cake here as well!

Address: 65 Bayard St, New York, NY 10013

See Art Exhibitions at Mmuseumm

Mmuseumm is a very small museum that you can find at 4 Cortlandt Alley. The museum consists of one room in total, and this room is filled with contemporary objects that relate to “the modern world and the human condition”.

You can visit the museum on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, but it is also possible to get a view of the inside of the museum by looking through viewing windows.

It is a hidden gem that you should not miss out on when you are in Chinatown.

Address: 4 Cortlandt Alley, New York, NY 10013

Visit the Mahayana Temple

The Mahayana Temple of New York is a famous Buddhist temple and one of the best landmarks in Chinatown. It is located at 133 Canal Street.

This is the largest Chinese Buddhist temple in the city and you can find the largest Buddha of New York City here. In addition to that, there are all kinds of prints and other objects on display at the temple.

Furthermore, events sometimes take place at the temple, including Chinese Calligraphy classes.

Address: 133 Canal St, New York, NY 10002

Go to the Fun Cat Cafe Meow Parlour

Meow Parlour is the first cat cafe in New York City and you can find this place in Chinatown.

You can find this cat cafe at 46 Hester Street and it is a great place to hang out with cute adoptable cats. You can go here for 30 minutes, but you may also stay for several hours.

Keep in mind that you often have to have a reservation, as this is a very popular place and there often is no walk-in availability. Also, you sometimes have to make a reservation 2 months in advance.

In addition to playing with the cats, you can also get drinks and baked goods at Meow Parlour.

Address: 46 Hester St, New York, NY 10002

Go for a Relaxing Walk at Columbus Park

Columbus Park, which used to be called Mulberry Bend Park, is a popular public park that dates back to the year 1897, and going there is one of the best things to do in Chinatown.

The park, which was named after the famous explorer Christopher Columbus, is a great place to hang out or go for a relaxing stroll.

Many people play board games in the park, and it is a popular place with Chinese Americans.

Furthermore, there are beautiful flowers here and there are often musicians at the park.

You can also combine exploring other parts of Chinatown with going for a stroll here.

Check Out Keki Modern Cakes

Keki Modern Cakes is a bakery that you can find in Chinatown. The bakery was founded by Moul Kim, Lawrence Wai, and Kevin Kim in 2017.

At this bakery, you can get amazing sweet treats made with fresh local ingredients.

The bakery is known for its Japanese bouncy cheesecake. This is a cake with a light and silky texture that is made with locally-sourced ingredients.

In addition to that, you can get all kinds of other cakes at this bakery. For example, the “Cookie n Cream Fancy” and the “Green Tea Fancy” are both great ones to buy.

You can also go here to buy delicious and colorful cream puffs.

Address: 79 Mott St, New York, NY 10013

Do a Guided Walking Tour of Chinatown

A great way to get to know the neighborhood is by doing a guided walking tour of Chinatown. You can do this by doing a guided tour that combines the neighborhoods of Chinatown, Soho, and Little Italy .

During this guided walking tour, a guide will show you beautiful architecture and interesting sights in the neighborhood. For example, you’ll visit the Mahayana Buddhist Temple where you can see a 16-foot Golden Buddha, the largest Buddha in the city.

Also, you’ll walk by the Manhattan Bridge, check out the Chinatown Ice Cream Factory where you can enjoy delicious ice cream, and see Doyer Street.

While doing this, you can learn about the neighborhood’s history from the local guide.

Go to the Chinatown Night Market

The Chinatown Night Market is an annual event that takes place near the entrance of the Manhattan Bridge.

This is an open-air festival focused on the culture of Chinatown. At the festival, you can find a lot of local art and food vendors that sell many different types of items.

For example, you can see sugar paintings, paper-cutting art, and much more at the market.

Furthermore, there is a large variety of food that you can try at the market, including food from restaurants in the neighborhood, such as Round K By Sol.

In addition to that, there are a lot of performances at the night market. For example, you can listen to great Chinese songs, jazz music, and many other types of music during the event.

See the Entrance of the Manhattan Bridge

The entrance of the Manhattan Bridge on the Chinatown side of the bridge is a great landmark in Chinatown to check out.

You can find a beautiful Beaux Arts triumphal arch here that was created in 1915. This arch was based on the Porte Saint-Denis, which can be found in the city of Paris and it is one of New York City’s three triumphal arches.

The arch was designed by Carrère and Hastings, which is a team that also designed the main branch of the New York Public Library.

When you are in Chinatown, I recommend checking out the entrance when going for a stroll.

Go to Canal Street Market

Going to Canal Street Market is also one of the best activities in Chinatown, and you can find this market at 265 Canal Street.

Canal Street Market is a space with multiple purposes. It is a community space, a curated retail market, and a food hall.

You can find many different vendors here that sell a large variety of items, and this also includes up-and-coming businesses in downtown New York City.

For example, you can go here for vendors that sell clothes and art. Also, you can get a lot of different food here. From tacos to chocolate to pizza to Japanese cuisine, there’s a lot to try at Canal Street Market.

Address: 265 Canal St, New York, NY 10013

See Doyers Street

One of the most famous streets in Chinatown, Doyers Street, is a great place to check out.

This is a short street that has a length of only 200 feet and has a sharp bend in its center.

You can find many Chinese restaurants on Doyers Street. For example, you can find the famous Nom Wah Tea Parlor here, which is the oldest restaurant in the neighborhood that is still operating.

You can also find many tenement buildings on the street and in the past many speakeasies could be found on the street, and several of these can still be visited.

Doyers Street is named for the Dutch immigrant Hendrik Dohyers who lived and operated a business in the street at the end of the 18th century.

Get Bubble Tea at ViVi Bubble Tea

You can find many great places for bubble tea in Chinatown and one of the best places for this is Vivi Bubble Tea. This company has several locations in the world, and you can find one of the locations in Manhattan’s Chinatown.

Here, you can get delicious Taiwanese bubble tea drinks.

There are many unique flavors of bubble tea to choose from. Whether you want to get passion fruit bubble tea, pineapple mango jelly bubble tea, crème brûlée bubble tea, or many other types of bubble tea, you can do so at this place!

In addition to that, you can get slush, and other types of drinks here.

Address: 49 Bayard St, New York, NY 10013

Go to Nom Wah Tea Parlor

The oldest continuously operating restaurant in Chinatown that has been operating since 1920, Nom Wah Tea Parlor , is a wonderful restaurant to check out when you are in the neighborhood.

You can find this restaurant on 11-13 Doyerst Street, but it first opened at 13-15 Doyers Street as a bakery and tea parlor.

The restaurant was first known for its steamed buns, dim sum, tea, and Chinese pastries, but after locating to its current location, the restaurant became known for its almond cookie, red bean filling, and other dishes.

You can get delicious food here and I’m sure you’ll have a great time when you go here.

Also, what’s great is that the interior of the restaurant hasn’t changed a lot, so the restaurant has a vintage atmosphere.

What’s interesting to know about the restaurant as well is that it appeared in many popular TV series and movies, such as Law and Order.

Address: 13 Doyers St, New York, NY 10013

Get Delicious Steamed Buns at Golden Steamer

Golden Steamer is a bakery that you should definitely check out if you’re looking for things to do in Chinatown. This is a Chinese bakery that is known for its steamed buns.

You can get delicious steamed buns here that are fluffy and that are filled with all kinds of fillings.

For example, you can get delicious buns with red beans or pumpkin here.

What’s great is that you can get one for a very low price, so if you are in the area and want to have a cheap and delicious snack, you should go here for sure! You can also buy several different types of steamed buns if you cannot choose!

Address: 143A Mott St, New York, NY 10013

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What To Do in Chinatown NYC Tips

Chinatown is a densely packed neighborhood that has so much to offer. For example, everywhere you go you can discover great restaurants. That’s why I recommend when you are choosing what to do in Chinatown, to also try out new restaurants that are close to the activities. I’m sure you stumble upon great new spots!

Chinatown Things To Do Map

This was my guide to the best things to do in Chinatown NYC. Have fun exploring this amazing neighborhood!

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Our Guide to New York City’s Chinatown

By Betsy Blumenthal

Emerging from the Canal Street station in Chinatown is an experience. There's not only the sensory overload—the aroma of roast duck, the striking visual of the neon green “hair” on hot pink rambutan in a fruit vendor's cart, and the cacophony of hawkers, passersby, and traffic—but also the uncanny warping of time. More than most of New York 's other neighborhoods, Chinatown is a time capsule lined with generations-old family-run businesses. But it is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in all of New York City; its long history is still being written as its streets evolve, with new ventures emerging between the storefronts of the old guard. It's this juxtaposition that makes Chinatown so intriguing.

But the coronavirus pandemic has been particularly harsh on the neighborhood. Beyond the ubiquitous business closures that erased decades of history, the racist stigma associated with the virus led to attacks on the city's Asian American Pacific Islander communities. But Chinatown—and its residents—are resilient. The next generation of business owners is already reshaping the bright future of the neighborhood, reviving some classics and introducing their own spins on cuisine, commerce, and culture. Before the pandemic, Nancy Yao Maasbach, president of the neighborhood's Museum of Chinese in America, told Condé Nast Traveler she believed "there’s never been a more exciting time for this neighborhood in New York City." And while she might not have predicted the challenges faced by Chinatown over the last 18 months, her sentiment is perhaps even more true today.

To help get you started on your own journey through the neighborhood, we've collected our favorite things to do in Chinatown below.

This article appeared in the September/October 2021 issue of Condé Nast Traveler. Subscribe to the magazine here .

The greatest hits

On the corner of Mott and Mosco, down a dark flight of stairs, unassuming neighborhood stalwart Hop Kee has been serving up no-frills Cantonese fare since 1968—but the lack of fuss is exactly why you go (and why Anthony Bourdain loved it). Slide into a booth and order the crabs Cantonese style, served in a rich brown sauce, and the salted squid with spicy green pepper. Over on East Broadway, Hwa Yuan Szechuan ’s white tablecloths are great for a dressed-up family dinner or a Friday night on the town; for something more low-key, Noodle Village on Mott is the perfect casual spot to roll into around 4 p.m. on a Saturday for steaming bowls of pork wonton noodle soup. On Doyers, Nom Wah Tea Parlor has been open since 1920, making it the oldest continuously running restaurant in Chinatown—and it’s still buzzing today, with locals and visitors who pack in each weekend for dim sum staples like shrimp shumai and Shanghainese soup dumplings. By contrast, Mee Sum Cafe on Pell Street feels like a place that time forgot, with hulking dun-colored cash register and metal barstools crowned with burnt-orange leather. Order one of the banana-leaf-encased sticky rice bundles, which sit by the dozens in trays on the counter, and a whole fish, marinated in soy sauce and scallions, if it’s available.

New kids on the block

Though Koreatown is technically three miles north, some of the best KFC—Korean fried chicken, that is—is on Pell Street, where Boka Korean Fried Chicken opened in 2019. Do a 10-piece order, along with a gut-busting helping of bulgogi French fries and a watermelon soju cocktail—served straight from a mini melon. Tonii’s Fresh Rice Noodle on Bayard opened in October of 2019, though with its scuffed white floors, random stoner art, and half-empty boxes of supplies, it looks more like it’s moving out than in. But the young crew behind the counter makes you forget all that—as do the pillowy rice noodles, with fresh shrimp and roasted duck. Tucked beneath the Manhattan Bridge, Hak Box is a sliver of a store at all of 200 square feet, but its namesake Hak Rolls, rice noodles stuffed with scallions and coated in bits of Spam and dried shrimp, are worth the squeeze. Fong On , the next-gen incarnation of the shuttered neighborhood staple Fong Inn Too, sits on a quiet stretch of Division, with red floors and white tiles that feel unimposing but cool.

Indulge your sweet tooth

Traditionally, Chinese meals end with something light, like a platter of seasonal fruit; full-fledged dessert items are typically reserved for snack time, and in Chinatown there is no shortage of snacks to be had. Start at Keki Modern Cakes on Mott Street, where the sweet scent of baked sugar hits you the second you step inside. The shop is known for its “bouncy cheesecake,” but the fluffy cream puffs, loaded with fillings like bright purple ube and delicate matcha, are every bit as memorable. Continue down Mott to Pinklady Cheese Tart , a tiny four-stool joint that sells exquisite tartlets (be sure to sample the nutty black sesame), delicately packaged in individual boxes, before backtracking to Alimama Tea , a hip café on Bayard with polished concrete floors, exposed brick walls, and a jumble of fairy lights hanging in the window that will delight Instagram influencers. Both the cartoonishly pink lychee rose tea and Onyx mochi doughnut, dredged in a shiny chocolate lacquer with flecks of gold and silver, taste as good as they’ll look in your feed. But on a hot summer’s day, there’s nothing better than heading a block west on Bayard for red-bean scoops (ideally in an M&M- studded sugar cone) from the Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory .

Do try this at home

To re-create the flavors of Chinatown in your own kitchen, hit Po Wing Hong , whose ruby-red awning—and the shopping attendant who diligently parks customers’ rolling carts outside—makes visits feel like a trip to the theater. Inside, the space opens up to reveal long aisles stocked with everything from bottled sauces and bagged noodles to purplish dried sausages and slick jellyfish slices. (You can also pick up dried goods like plums and sea cucumbers, sold by weight.) Aqua Best , on Grand, sells glistening fluke, branzino, and sea bass, all propped up on ice. If your day starts early, swing by the fruit stands flanking both sides of Mulberry Street near the intersection of Grand: Vendors hawk fresh oranges and just- ripe cherries, prickly dragon fruit, and unwieldy durian beneath multicolored beach umbrellas.

Jessica Puckett

Hannah Towey

Karthika Gupta

Shop till you drop

CT Seafood Mart, on the corner of Grand and Chrystie, is a clearinghouse for everything from fresh produce and seafood to pastel-colored bedspreads and bamboo-tile car-seat covers. On Mott, K.K. Discount Store is packed with silverware, rolling pins, and mocha pots of every size; there’s also plenty to covet at the tiny Ting Yu Hong Co., including wooden sandals, delicately wrapped soap bars, and (in a nod to its 1950s origins) the occasional cigarette holder. Now five generations in, Wing on Wo & Co. is Chinatown’s oldest store; make an appointment to browse its exquisite porcelain goods, suitable for everyday use (a turquoise soy bottle) and special occasions (a jade-handle mirror). Beauty haven oo35mm stocks slather-worthy tinctures like Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm. Other noteworthies include Chen’s Watch Inc. , a spot that deals in shiny vintage pocket watches and grandfather clocks from the likes of Le Coultre, and Bok Lei Po Trading Inc. , a martial-arts supply store with a trove of Feiyue shoes and Jing Wu three-button shirts.

Walk it off

Head to Columbus Park’s Dr. Sun Yat-sen Plaza to watch elders play card games for a crowd, or stop at the Chinatown Fair Family Fun Center , a pitch-dark arcade on Mott, for a few rounds of ice ball. Don’t miss the Maya Lin–designed Museum of Chinese in America on Centre, which traces the history of the diaspora. Recently reopened after a devastating fire in January 2020, it’s free for all through September 19.

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Best Chinatown NYC Guide: What to See, Walking Tour, Food & More!

Find out all the cool spots to visit in Chinatown NYC with a suggested walking route below. You can go to Chinatown after visiting Soho and Little Italy since they are next to each other! Chinatown NYC is a neighborhood filled with shops & restaurants. In this post, you’ll find the coolest spots to visit in Chinatown.

Tip: If you’re planning on buying NY Souvenirs, I’d suggest buying them in Chinatown or Little Italy because they are cheaper than the NY Gift Shops in Times Square 😉

When I first came to NYC and went to Chinatown, I only went to Canal Street… I was the worst tourist! I think it’s awesome to go and explore on your own but it’s good to have at least some guidance 😉 Now that I live here, I prefer to avoid the area because of the smell and because it gets very crowded but it’s worth visiting at least once! Some locals go to eat here or buy fresh fish. If you’re on a very tight schedule on your NYC Trip , you can avoid this area.

What’s Chinatown NYC Known For?

Busy & narrow sidewalks with plenty of souvenir stores, clothing, suitcases & bags, bubble tea shops and markets that sell dried fish, herbs & spices! You can find many locals at Columbus Park (more below).

Many tourists & foodies visit Chinatown for the restaurants if you’re up for some good dumplings, pork buns, seafood, or hand-pulled noddles, and dessert too!

It’s also known for being a smelly neighborhood with all the seafood around… Chinatown is getting bigger and bigger every day!

How to Get to Chinatown NYC

You can take the following subways to Canal Street Station:

What to See in Chinatown NYC: Top Attractions

Canal street.

• Mott Street Market
• Chatham Square
• Manhattan Bridge Entrance

Columbus Park

The most popular street in Chinatown NYC and main shopping area. The street where you’ll see plenty of shops all next to each other. You should know Canal St. is not a “legitimate” shopping area in Manhattan . More below.

Shopping on Canal St. – Crossing Streets: Canal St. between Baxter St. & Bowery.

Doyers Street

This is a hidden little street in the heart of Chinatown NYC worth visiting! Hard to find if you just go to Canal Street without knowing about this! This was my favorite part of Chinatown! It’s safe to walk through there. It can look a bit isolated close to sunset but it’s safe!

It was known as the “Murder Alley” or “Bloody Angle” because it was a very dangerous street with violence and crimes in the 1880s/1900s.

Many Chinatown locals go to this park. You can spot people doing  Tai Chi in the mornings and playing chess & Mahjong.

You don’t really have to visit this park if you just want to visit the main spots of Chinatown New York 😉

Shopping in Chinatown NYC

You can find cheap souvenirs, bags, suitcases, purses, wallets, etc. on Canal Street. The shops are very close to each other.

It will feel like all of them are being VERY PUSHY trying to make you buy their stuff. For some people, this can be annoying. Many will tell you a higher price than what it really costs so you have to negotiate the price here. I’d say to never accept the first price they tell you 😉 In fact, it’s expected to negotiate the price.

Chinatown NYC is also famous for selling fake bags (imitation bags) of luxury brands such as Prada , Gucci , Louis Vuitton , Chanel , etc. People that ask for this, are taken to the back of the store which can be a bit scaring. You should know it’s illegal for them to sell you these, so I don’t promote it or encourage it here.

Some Chinatown Shopping Tips:

• Bring cash with you.
• Try not to show your cash.
• Don’t keep your purse wide open.
• Keep an eye on what you spend so you don’t end up spending tons of money on junk items.
• Get ready to bargain. It’s expected here!

Suggested Walking Route

• If you want to visit Chinatown NYC after Soho or Little Italy, simply keep walking on Canal St. till you reach Chinatown 😉

Chinatown Food

Ice cream in chinatown, taiyaki nyc.

A really cool & popular (and cheap!) Japanese Ice Cream store with unique soft-serve ice cream flavors in a fish-shaped waffle cone. If you go to this place, I’d only go for the ice cream cone (they sell other stuff too). It’s what made them popular.

119 Baxter St. between Canal & Hester Sts.

Matcha n’ More

Good spot for Matcha drinks & soft-serve ice cream. Great for Matcha lovers!

4704, 177 Hester St. between Mott & Mulberry Sts.

Chinatown Ice Cream Factory

This is a popular & touristic spot. Homemade ice cream with Oriental & exotic flavors. Maybe not the best ice cream but it’s worth trying the flavors.

65 Bayard St. between Mott & Elizabeth Sts.

Chinatown Bakery

If you wanna eat Buns this is THE place to go! Don’t expect the staff to be friendly though… because they aren’t! Ask if you can grab a table before you buy. Sometimes they don’t let you and you need to eat your buns somewhere else. CASH ONLY!

64 Bayard St. between Mott & Elizabeth Sts.

Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles

Best hand-pulled noodles in Chinatown.

1 Doyers St. between Pell & Chatam / Bowery.

Best Restaurants in Chinatown NYC

Some restaurants to consider:

• Wah Fung No 1 Fast Food : more of a grab & go spot. Known for their Roasted BBQ Pork. Cheap & good food. Maybe too greasy for some.
• Vanessa’s Dumpling House or East Dumpling .
• The Original Buddha Bodai : Vegetarian, Vegan & Kosher.
• Xi’an Famous Foods . Good for Noddles.

You might also want to check out:

Soho NYC Guide

Financial District Guide

Follow my tips here on Instagram too!

@NewYorkerTips

• ← Smorgasburg in Brooklyn: One of the Best Food Markets in NYC!
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NewYorkerTips

Hi there :) I'm Jess and I came to NYC to pursue my dream and I feel I'm living it every day. New York is magical and you have to be open to everything because you never know who is sitting next to you on the subway or behind you in the line of the supermarket. I decided to create this blog about NYC because I realized how many powerful tips would have helped me if I knew them before coming to the city from someone who was living in NY! So I thought that it would be awesome to share with you some tips about New York from a New Yorker. I'm going to keep updating this blog so stay tuned :)

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10 Best Things to Do in Chinatown, NYC + MAP

Home | Travel | North America | United States | New York | NYC | 10 Best Things to Do in Chinatown, NYC + MAP

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There are countless things to do in Chinatown, NYC , so you can visit it over and over and still find something new. People come from all over the country to experience the unique atmosphere of New York City’s Chinatown , and it’s easy to see why it’s a must-visit Manhattan neighborhood .

This area is home to several historic landmarks and interesting streets where you can window shop for bargains, get a taste of a different culture, and learn more about the local Chinese community. The old structures and alleyways here carry a secret history that you may overlook at first glance. That’s why I recommend taking this tour if it’s your first time exploring this neighborhood. You will also visit nearby Little Italy, another reason why I consider it one of the best walking tours in NYC .

Every time we visit this place, there is something new to try since some of the best food in NYC is in Chinatown . From hand-pulled noodles and pork dumplings to fresh fish and dim sum, Chinatown is a haven for foodies. So, you can eat your way around here while discovering all the coolest attractions.

To help you out, I’m sharing the 10 best things to do in Chinatown , as well as where to stay if you decide to extend your visit.

1. Eat some Chinese food, a fun thing to do in Chinatown

Without a doubt, one of the best foods to try in NYC is Chinese food , and there is no better place to do that than in Chinatown. The aromas and flavors are a huge draw for visitors and locals craving authentic Asian food, and a few restaurants definitely stand out.

First, Joe’s Shanghai has some of the best Chinese food in NYC’s Chinatown , as well as vegetarian-friendly options. That said, the soup dumplings are super popular and worth trying. Another top spot to check out is Xi’an Famous Foods , which serves western Chinese dishes. While it’s a chain, it has incredible food, particularly spicy and sour dumplings, and chili oil beef noodles.

Speaking of which, you can get amazing noodles in Chinatown , and at a great price. Two of the best places to go are Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles and Super Taste . If you want to try a variety of Chinese dishes, go out for dim sum at Nom Wah Tea Parlor , where you can order everything from scallion pancakes and sesame balls to rice noodles and pork buns.

There are other Asian cuisines to enjoy here, including Korean barbecue, sushi, and ramen. One of the best ways to get a sampling of everything is by taking this food tour , which goes through Chinatown and Little Italy, another great neighborhood in NYC .

2. Mahayana Buddhist Temple, one of the best places in Chinatown, New York City

For a quiet escape from the busy city, enter the Mahayana Buddhist Temple . It’s the largest Buddhist temple in NYC, and you don’t have to be a practicing Buddhist to check it out.

The temple is open daily and holds meditation classes and cultural programs for visitors. You can pop in to leave an offering, say a prayer, or just look around at the beautiful interior. Along with a 16-foot golden Buddha statue, there are altars and artworks depicting the Buddha’s life story and enlightenment.

In addition to being one of the best places to visit in Chinatown , the temple is the setting for Chinese Buddhist gatherings every week. If you’re interested, you can attend one of the dharma services to experience the chants and ritual offerings.

The Mahayana Buddhist Temple is supported through donations, so if you stop by, I encourage you to leave a few dollars.

3. Columbus Park, another nice place to go in Chinatown, NYC

Columbus Park is another Chinatown landmark that you’re sure to see during your visit. This public park is along Chinatown’s southern border and is a popular spot for social and community events. As you walk through it, you may see people hanging out, playing mahjong, or practicing tai chi.

While these days the park is a safe and friendly place, back in the 19 th century, it was the site for lots of gang-related activity and crime. Over the decades, revitalization efforts have transformed Columbus Park into a welcoming space for all ages.

Here, you’ll find a playground, sports fields, a basketball court, and a statue of Chinese political leader Dr. Sun Yat-sen. It’s one of the best spots in Chinatown for people-watching, so I recommend relaxing here with a snack or drink, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

4. Museum of Chinese in America, an interesting museum in Chinatown, New York

Another way to learn more about Chinatown and its history is to visit the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA). This is one of the best museums in NYC , so it’s a must-see if you’re a museum lover or you’re looking for a rainy day activity.

MOCA focuses on the Chinese American experience by chronicling over 160 years of events and individuals. Among the collection, there are manuscripts, photographs, textiles, audio recordings, and artwork, as well as a research center. During your visit, you’re sure to discover something new, such as a Chinese American actor you were unfamiliar with or long-held traditions like Shaolin dragon dancing.

Best of all, this museum in Chinatown, NYC is included in the New York Pass . If you don’t have the pass, you can get a ticket here .

5. Visit the Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory, something to do in Chinatown as a family

There are amazing restaurants in Chinatown, NYC , but don’t forget to save room for dessert. The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory has the most delectable cones and ice cream cakes, so you’ll want to stop by.

This family-owned ice cream shop is known for its colorful sweet treats and wide selection of flavors. You’ll find the typical flavors like vanilla and chocolate, as well as more adventurous ones like lychee, ginger, and green tea. The almond cookie ice cream sounds especially yummy, and it’s made with Chinese almond cookies from the Fung Wong Bakery down the street.

While some believe that the Chinese invented ice cream back during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), there’s no doubt that this is one of the most delicious places to visit in Chinatown .

6. Bloody Angle (Doyers Street), the most famous street in NYC’s Chinatown

Chinatown’s Doyers Street may be just 200 feet long, but it’s one of the most famous streets in New York , so you must check it out. The street is more like an alleyway, and it has a sharp bend in it where Nom Wah Tea Parlor is located.

In the early 20 th century, Doyers Street was known as the “Bloody Angle” because it was the site of numerous murders and crimes. Gang-related activity and drug use led to lots of bloodshed, and people wouldn’t dare walk along this street.

Fortunately, today this area is totally safe and has been revamped with a colorful street mural. It’s even considered to be one of the best streets in Chinatown, NYC , thanks to its shops and cafes. In addition to Nom Wah Tea Parlor, which dates back to 1920, there are other long-standing buildings here like Ting’s Gift Store .

There are also places to grab a drink or a bite to eat, like Chinese Tuxedo , Taiwan Pork Chop House , and Apotheke , one of the best speakeasies in NYC that is in an old opium den.

7. Canal Street Market, the best place to shop in Chinatown, NYC

Canal Street is one of the best places to go shopping in Chinatown, NYC , and one of the most popular spots to visit is the Canal Street Market . This large market is full of vendors selling everything from food and artisanal products to handicrafts, housewares, and clothing. This place is open year-round, so you can always find new items and bargains.

One of the most interesting retailers here is a bonsai shop where you can take home your own miniature tree. There is also a food court full of Chinese vendors offering noodles, rice balls, bubble tea, and more. You can also find Filipino, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Mexican cuisine. Not only is the market a hub for community and culture, but it’s also a great place to support small, local businesses.

Of course, there are other popular markets in Chinatown where you can go bargain-hunting. Pearl River Mart is a three-story shop with unique items like tea sets, ceramics, incense holders, and Asian snacks and candy. For something more high-end, check out Magic Jewelry NYC , which has gorgeous jade pendants and gemstone bracelets.

8. Chinese New Year Parade, a cool thing to see in Chinatown

If you’re visiting Chinatown around Lunar New Year (which is usually in February), then you can’t miss the Chinese New Year Parade . It’s just one of the events that take place here for the Lunar New Year celebrations, but it’s definitely the most exciting.

The parade is full of participants celebrating their culture and ringing in the new year with firecrackers, lanterns, music, and songs. You’ll also see dancers in traditional clothing and martial artists with impressive moves. One of my favorite things is the dragon dancing, which is a performance with an elaborate dragon puppet. The dragon is said to scare evil spirits away and bring in wisdom, fertility, and good fortune for the new year.

The parade route starts at Canal and Mott Streets and travels south, then goes east along Broadway before turning up Forsythe Street. So, grab a spot and witness one of the coolest things to see in Chinatown, NYC .

9. Chinatown Fair Family Fun Center, one of the best places to go in Chinatown with kids

If you’re looking for things to do in Chinatown with kids, or you just want to have some fun, head to the Chinatown Fair Family Fun Center on Mott Street. This video arcade has a long history, dating back to 1944 and appearing in several films throughout the years.

Today, the arcade is under new management, but it’s still a popular place to visit in Chinatown with family or friends. You’ll find all your favorite games like Skee-Ball and air hockey, as well as classics like pinball and crane machines. The arcade is also known for having fan favorites like Dance Dance Revolution and Mario Kart .

You can also play the games that made the Fun Center famous in the first place, such as Ms. Pac-Man and Space Invaders. The arcade is open daily, so keep it in mind if you need something to do in Chinatown on a rainy day.

10. Get drinks at Crown Rooftop Bar, a fun thing to do in Chinatown as a couple

After a full day of exploring Chinatown and all its attractions, chill out with a cocktail at The Crown Rooftop Bar . Located on the 21 st floor of Hotel 50 Bowery , The Crown offers beautiful views of Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn skyline, as well as amazing drinks.

You can relax in the indoor lounge or enjoy the fresh air on one of the outdoor balconies. The entire bar has a boutique design with contemporary furnishings and stylish seating. The Crown also features a regular line-up of DJs, so you can listen to live music while sipping on a martini or beer.

In addition to its signature cocktails, the bar has a creative menu with small plates and appetizers like tuna tartare tacos, pan-fried chicken dumplings, and pork buns. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best rooftops in NYC and the perfect place to go in Chinatown at night .

Where to stay in Chinatown NYC

I prefer staying in one of the nearby neighborhoods, like the Bowery or SoHo . This way, you can enjoy a comfortable accommodation and a good night’s sleep while still being close to the best attractions in Chinatown . These are a couple of my favorite hotels:

• The Bowery Hotel – one of the best hotels in Manhattan with industrial-style rooms and a delicious Italian restaurant.
• Crosby Street Hotel – an excellent hotel in downtown NYC with a drawing room, a private theater, and afternoon tea service.

Chinatown New York map

To wrap up, don’t forget to check out our Manhattan neighborhoods map to see an overview of Chinatown and nearby areas. I’m also sharing this specific map of New York’s Chinatown , with all the attractions and hotels I mentioned.

If you have any questions or you’d like to share your favorite things to do in Chinatown , leave me a comment below. I’d be delighted to hear from you! Have a fantastic trip!

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Things to Do in Chinatown NYC

Chinatown is like no other neighborhood in NYC.

Its historic streets are narrow, shops sell exotic food, you'll hear Chinese spoken here and yes, you can find knock-off handbags!

This post shares tips on the best things to see in Chinatown, including where to eat and shop, where to stay, and other tips.

We are a group of locals who lead walking tours throughout NYC.

We have led tens of thousands of people through the streets of Manhattan's Chinatown and even a couple of our tour guides live here.

In addition to our vast experience covering Chinatown, we also run the very popular NYC Travel Tips Facebook Group.

We asked our roughly 200k members what they thought was best about Chinatown and we used some of their suggestions in this post.

The group is made up of locals, and tour guides, but mostly of fans of NYC who are planning on visiting or have visited the city before.

You don't need to be a member to search for and read the posts, comments, and recommendations.

Check out our group once you are finished reading this post.

• Plan Your Visit
• Things to See and Do
• Restaurants
• Where to Stay in NYC
• Other NYC Neighborhoods

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Visiting Manhattan's Chinatown is like being transported to another country and in some ways to another era!

Wander Chinatown's narrow streets, lined with tenement buildings over 100 years old.

Contemplate the neighborhood's past, filled with stories of Irish gangs from the 1850s and mass Chinese migration in the early 1900s.

While it may feel a bit touristy, if you look closely you will see a bit of China among the locals, their traditions, and the authentic (and inexpensive) food shops.

Walk along Canal Street for "designer" bags or shop for souvenirs.

If you like fascinating history, delicious food, cheap shopping, and a touch of the exotic, Chinatown is worth a visit!

Oh, bring cash! Not all shops take credit cards and small food carts only accept cash.

Let Us Take You Here

Join one of our daily pay-what-you-wish tours.

We also have a self-guided tour as well as an audio tour. See the section on tour options below for more details.

How to Get Here

Chinatown is located in Downtown Manhattan. It's important to know that because there are two other large Chinatowns in NYC.

There's Flushing in Queens, believed to be the largest Chinatown in the city and Sunset Park in Brooklyn, running a close second in size.

Getting to Manhattan's Chinatown is easy. By subway, Chinatown is less than 20 minutes from Times Square by the N, Q, and R lines.

We recommend that you start your visit at the Chinatown Information Kiosk at the intersection of Baxter St & Canal St.

Use this Google Maps link for directions to the kiosk .

Chinatown is easy to reach by a number of subway lines and buses.

• Canal Street Station: 6, J, M, N, Q, R, W, Z
• Grand Street station:  B, D
• East Broadway station:  F

We have two posts on the NYC subway that are very handy:

• Navigating the Subway System
• Which MetroCard to Buy

M1, M6, M9, M15, M22, M103

All the major hop-on-hop-off buses offer at least one stop in Chinatown. Read our comparison post on which bus company might be right for you .  

How Much Time To Spend Here

Any time of day is good for a visit to Chinatown.

It is quieter in the morning, but half the fun is seeing the hustle and bustle of midday and the neon lights at night.

If you want to get a good feel for Chinatown, try some great food, do a little shopping, and soak in the atmosphere, we recommend that you give yourself at least two hours. 

If you plan to eat at a sit-down restaurant add on an additional hour. We recommend where to eat below .

Keep in mind that Chinatown is bordered by many other fantastic neighborhoods to check out.

Adjacent to Chinatown are:

• Little Italy
• Lower Manhattan
• Lower East Side

THINGS TO SEE IN CHINATOWN

Here are the top ten places to check out in Chinatown.

You can get more detail on these and other sites from our self-guided Chinatown tour for a do-it-yourself experience.

1. Stroll Mott Street

This is Chinatown's unofficial "Main Street” where many of the first Chinese-owned shops and restaurants opened in the early days of Chinatown.

Today it is lined with Chinese restaurants, trendy bubble tea shops, and tourist-type gift shops.

Must-visit sites include Aji Ichiban Candy Store at 37 Mott Street and the Church of the Transfiguration (corner of Mosco and Mott Sts.) erected in 1801.

Our self-guided tour has details on these stops and others not included here.

2. Relax in Columbus Park

­Immerse yourself in Chinese culture by spending a few minutes in this small but lively park.

Here you will find many elderly Chinese people, who come to do tai chi, play cards, mahjong, and other Chinese games.

You will hear musicians singing traditional Chinese songs and playing lutes. Early in the mornings, you may spot a group of people doing tai­chi.

Though this park feels distinctly Chinese, it wasn't always the case.

The area where the park stands now and the surrounding streets were known as Five Points.

You may already be familiar with Five Points from the book and movie Gangs of New York .

3. Eat Fried Dumplings

On Mosco Street, head to Fried Dumpling, a tiny shop where you can get what some say are the best Chinese fried pork dumplings in town.

Just $1.25 for 5 dumplings!  

Forks are to the right of the register and there is hot sauce on the tiny counter across from the open kitchen where you can see your dumplings being made.

The ladies at the counter are very fast and don’t have time for questions so be ready with cash in hand!

4.  Discover the "Bloody Angle"

In the early 1900s, Chinatown was a bed of vice, and rival tongs (gangs) battled for dominance. The small, curved Doyers Street was a prime location for gang violence.

There were so many shoot-outs, ambushes, and murders on Doyers Street, that it came to be known as “the Bloody Angle".

The most famous spot on Doyers Street is the Nom Wah Tea Parlor, Chinatown’s first tea parlor, which opened in 1920.

The interior resembles an American coffee shop with vinyl booths and a counter with stools.

Unlike other food establishments in early Chinatown with their exotic mysterious appearance, Nom Wah’s décor was familiar to non-Chinese diners and made it more enticing for people to come in and try this new type of food. 

5.  Be Transported on Pell Street

Walking along this narrow and colorful street one feels as if they are in China due to the small storefronts with awnings and flags written in Chinese.

This short street has a number of interesting sites.

At the corner of Pell Street and Bowery is the oldest townhouse in New York City, built in 1785 after the Revolutionary War.

At 18 Pell Street, you'll find a dusty corner store selling traditional Chinese trinkets. It's been in business since 1957.

6. See a Giant Buddha

Opened in 1997, the Mahayana Buddhist Temple 133 Canal Street is the largest Buddhist Temple in New York City and houses the city's largest Buddha statue.

You can enter the temple’s foyer for free (dressed appropriately – this is a house of worship).

If you have time and a $1 donation, go into the temple itself to gaze up at the 16-foot-tall golden Buddha. 

7. Experience Dim Sum

Dim Sum is a meal of small plates of a variety of Chinese foods like dumplings, steamed buns, ribs, seafood, and so many other treats.

This is an excellent way to try many dishes for fairly low prices.

Traditionally, Dim Sum is served on the weekends only, sort of like brunch.

However, many restaurants in Chinatown now serve it on weekdays as well, though the atmosphere is much more energetic on weekends.

When having Dim Sum, instead of ordering from a menu, you are given a large ticket on which the waiters keep track of what you eat.

Choose your food from the carts being pushed around by the servers. If you see something you like, stop the waiter, point at the item, and give your food ticket.

We recommend some places to get Dim Sum below in our Restaurants section below. 

8. See the Mott Street Fish Market

This market is made up of a number of stores selling fish and other creatures of the sea at very competitive prices.

There are a few stores that sell greens and fruit but mainly it’s the fish that bring the locals in to do their weekly shopping.

You can also find a massive array of dried goods, from different types of mushrooms, squid, shrimp, and many items you probably won’t recognize. 

Warning: if you are squeamish, do NOT look inside the large plastic garbage bins next to the fish displays.

9. Go to the Museum of Chinese in the Americas (MoCA)

This museum is one of the most important national archives of Chinese history in America. Their permanent collection is extensive.

Over 65,000 artifacts, photographs, documents, textiles, and other objects document the history of Chinese Americans.

Temporary exhibits are highly topical. Several permanent exhibits are family-friendly. 

The  Museum of Chinese in the Americas is at 215 Centre Street.

Entrance to the museum is free for holders of the New York City Tourist Pass .

10. See the Majestic Manhattan Bridge Entrance

Though the first thing you will notice about the entrance to the Manhattan Bridge is the traffic and constant gridlock, take a moment to admire the grand archway and colonnade to the bridge. 

It was designed by one of the most famous architecture firms of the early 20th century Carrere and Hastings, who designed the magnificent New York Public Library at 5th Avenue and 42nd Street.

The Manhattan Bridge, built in 1908, is not as beautiful as the nearby Brooklyn Bridge (though that is arguable).

But, it provides an invaluable service to New Yorkers as it allows cars, pedestrians, cyclists, and subways to cross from Brooklyn to Manhattan.

CHINATOWN FOOD AND RESTAURANTS

There is an overwhelming number of restaurants, eateries, and food carts in Chinatown. This section includes our picks for the best spots.

For an even bigger selection, see our post listing some of the most popular Chinatown NYC restaurants that won’t break the bank.

You can dine fairly well in Chinatown for under $10 for a sit-down meal. You can fill up on amazing street food for under $5!

See below for our snack suggestions .

• Nom Wah Tea Parlor

13 Doyers St. 

The oldest restaurant in Chinatown, the Nom Wah Tea Parlor menu offers plenty of dim sum favorites like steamed shrimp dumplings, scallion pancakes, pork fried dumplings, and soup dumplings.

21 Mott Street corner of Mosco Street, basement level

Serving Cantonese Chinese food classics like lobster in white sauce, sweet and sour pork, and lo mein since 1968.

This bustling restaurant in a clean, well-lit basement-level space, is a favorite among New Yorkers hungry for a nostalgic meal at very good prices.

20 Elizabeth Street between Canal Street and Bayard Street.

This huge banquet hall is one of the best places to experience Dim Sum.

If you are a big group, you will get your own table, but when it is crowded you will have to wait in the crowded lobby until a table is free.

There is also the option to sit at communal tables.

Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles

1 Doyers Street

A small and cheap restaurant that is adored by New Yorkers. The dough that makes their noodles are literally pulled and stretched out by hand.

They are served in broth or by themselves with add-ins such as duck, chicken, or vegetables. Cash only.

Dim Sum Go Go

5 E Broadway at Chatham Square

If you feel like having dim sum but want to leave behind the mystery of pointing at unknown foods from wheeled carts, try this full-service restaurant.

Menus are provided with a full description and photos of the food. 

Joe’s Shanghai

Joe’s specializes in the ever-popular soup dumplings, pan-fried noodles, soups, and Shanghai-style spare ribs.

You can even order an entire fried fish covered in a thick, brown gravy.

Joe’s has been named “Best Restaurant” by the likes of Gourmet Magazine, Travel and Leisure, and New York Magazine.

Chinese Snack Foods

Fried Dumpling - 106 Mosco Street

This shop is a hole in the wall, but you can’t miss it as there is usually a short line to get 5 fried pork dumplings for $1.25.

They also have pork buns and vegetarian dumplings but they cost a bit more and aren’t as good as their signature dish.

Chinatown Ice Cream Factory - 65 Bayard Street between Elizabeth and Mott Streets

At $5 a scoop, it’s a bit pricey, but they have unusual flavors like ginger, taro, coconut, wasabi, and black sesame seed. There are plenty of old-fashioned American flavors as well.

They also do a great job with familiar flavors such as Mint Chip, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Vanilla Fudge.

Mei Li Wah Bakery - 64 Bayard Street between Elizabeth and Mott Sts

Juicy, tender and tangy pork fills their buns and costs less than $2!

If you are a vegetarian or just want to try something different, try the lotus paste steamed buns with the consistency of peanut butter and a taste similar to that of chestnuts.

Golden Steamer - 143A Mott Street between Hester and Grand Sts.

Tucked away in a small storefront among the bustling fish market you'll find the most delicious pumpkin steamed buns in all of New York City.

The roast pork buns are good too and there's an array of sweet and savory baked and steamed items ranging from $1 to $3.

SHOPPING IN CHINATOWN

If you're looking for jewelry, handbags, perfume, sunglasses, watches, wallets, shoes, etc. walk along Canal Street between Broadway and Mulberry Street.

You will have many shops to choose from. Don’t be shy about ‘haggling’ (negotiating) – try it and you may get a better deal.

Though we don’t endorse purchasing knock-off counterfeit handbags, we can provide you with information about where and how to do this.

Don’t forget that selling counterfeit goods is a crime, so be careful with whom you deal.

Here are some tips:

First, you can visit legitimate stores licensed to sell goods.

Merchandise can sometimes be knockoffs of your favorite brands or have logos meant to resemble those of fancy name-brand bags.

If a shop does carry fake bags, they won’t make it obvious and you will have to go to the way back of the shop and have a look.  

Another option is to look for illegal street peddlers selling knockoff sunglasses, handbags and watches out of suitcases or on sheets laid out on the sidewalk.

If they suddenly pack up and run off, it means that they have spotted the police.

For those brave enough, you can deal with individual sellers who presumably have better quality counterfeit items.

These hawkers stand on street corners (notably Mott, Mulberry, and Baxter Street on the north side of Canal Street) and will walk past you saying quietly “handbag, purse" to women or “watches” to men.

If you indicate you are interested, they will take you off to the side and discreetly show you pictures of the items they have.

If you want to make a purchase, you then follow them to semi-secret, but generally safe, locations to complete the deal.

For an additional resource to discover more shops in Chinatown , check out Time Out NYC.

GUIDED TOURS OF CHINATOWN

Free tours by foot.

We offer several pay-what-you-like tours that are focused on, or include, Chinatown in Manhattan.

Our  SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown Tour  runs twice every day and spends about 45 minutes in Chinatown. 

Sometimes, we run a stand-alone tour of Chinatown .  We also offer Chinatown as part of two other history walking tours. 

Our  Chinatown Food Tour - this is a 2-hour tour that explores both the food and history of Chinatown.  This runs on a weekly basis.  

See our current tour calendar for our tours, times, and descriptions.

New York City Tourist Passes  

Both the New York Pass and the New York Explorer Pass include guided food and history tours of Chinatown for free.

These passes can be very valuable if you are planning on visiting many attractions.  

All the major hop-on, hop-off bus companies have at least one stop in Chinatown.

You will get a narration of the neighborhood from the onboard tour guide while you drive through.  

For a more in-depth guided tour, consider one of the bus companies that offer a tour guide who gets off the bus with you and walks you through the neighborhood.  

Read our post on which tour bus is right for you .

Chinatown Walking Tour

Very few neighborhoods encapsulate the diversity and international draw of New York City like Chinatown.

Interestingly enough, this neighborhood sits in the place of a former famous neighborhood in New York, the Five Points, immortalized in the book and film “Gangs of New York.”

A relatively new phenomenon in the city, Chinatown is still growing.

Join Free Tours by Foot for a peek into this ongoing chapter in New York City’s rich immigrant history.

As part of the tour, you will see the restaurants and stores that make up everyday life here.

You will be approached by street vendors selling everything from exotic fruits to questionable brand-name handbags.

You will also get a chance to pass through important neighborhood centers like Columbus Park, where Chinese men and women congregate to talk about local happenings and play their card and board games.

All of the sites and stops in Chinatown will paint a picture that will make the world feel small while at the same time reminding you of just how big it really is.

Here are the sites that will be covered on the tour:

• Columbus Park
• Church of Transfiguration
• Chatham Square
• Shearith Israel Cemetery
• Kimlau Memorial Arch
• Edward Mooney House
• Manhattan Bridge Entrance
• Mott Street Market
• Mahayana Buddhist Temple
• Museum of Chinese in the Americas

Tour information

Reservations : This tour currently runs as a private tour only.

Where : The tour departs from the intersection of Canal and Baxter Streets ( map ).

Duration : Approximately 2 hours.  Approximately 1.5 miles (2k) in distance.

When :  View our full tour Calendar

Cost : This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it’s done.  A  name-your-own-price tour  is a tour for every budget.

Save more money with a  tourist concession pass  and our  Guide to NYC on a Budget .

Language : The tour is in English.

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Amazing Things to Do and See in Chinatown, NYC

Senior Travel Writer

You’ve drawn a big red circle around Chinatown on your New York map for a reason. This community is home to some of the best Asian food on this side of the world, but don’t spend all of your dough on dim sum. Along with delicious restaurants, Chinatown in New York City also has exciting shops, family-friendly activities and a handful of historical sites. Head in with more than just an appetite and check out all the things to see and do in Chinatown, NYC.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips

Chinatown has the best Chinese food in the city, obviously. But it also has the best Japanese-accented Cantonese cuisine in NYC. Chef Akiko Thurnauer of Cha Kee was born in the Big Apple, raised in the Japanese culinary tradition and trained in places such as Nobu. So, if there’s one person who can make the harmony of multi-Asian flavors sing, it’s chef Akiko – especially in the mouth-numbing,​​ Sichuan-style dandan noodles in sesame sauce.

While others are following the crowd down Doyers Street, you and the kids will have a grand time one street over at Chinatown Fair Family Fun Center – one of the last-remaining arcades in New York City. This fun attraction on Mott Street has everything from classic cabinets and unique Japanese imports to skee-ball and shooters. Its special status among New Yorkers means it’s even featured in various films, including The Devil’s Advocate (1997) starring Al Pacino.

Edward Mooney House

If the red-brick Edward Mooney House seems out of place in Chinatown, that’s because it is. A remnant of the 1780s when row houses dotted the community, it’s now the oldest brick townhouse in the entire city. The Edward Mooney House is adjacent to Confucius Plaza on the corner of Bowery and Pell – and an under-the-radar landmark that’s hard to miss.

Nice One Bakery

Skip the lines at the Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory and walk a few storefronts down for a different sweet treat at Nice One Bakery. It doesn’t sugarcoat the prices or dazzle up the seating; it leaves all the bells and whistles for the delicious dim sum, sticky-rice donuts and mooncakes. The bakery doesn’t even have a formal website, so don’t be shocked when you see the cash-only sign outside.

Mott Street Girls Walking Tour

Don’t let the relatively small size of Chinatown make you think you can stroll right through in a few minutes; a Mott Street Girls walking tour will take you deep into the history and culture of the community. The Flavors of Old Chinatown food tour needs only a napkin and 90 minutes of your time. In contrast, the immersive walk of Chinatown through the lens of the Chinese Exclusion Act will show you a darker history of the community.

You’d be forgiven for overlooking the small Hak Box under the Manhattan Bridge. This counter-service shop within the East Broadway Mall has Hakka-style eats ready to grab and go. The dumplings are delicious, huge and cheap, ticking off the trifecta of excellent Chinese food, all prepared fresh for you in a New York minute.

Pearl River Mart

Pearl River Mart is the first Chinese-American department store in the world and precisely where you want to shop if you’re looking for something beyond the typical tourist souvenirs. The shelves hold everything from chopsticks and sake cups to clothing for children, ceramics, Kasugai roasted green peas and Kung-Fu shoes. Drop by, get lost on a shopping spree and Dragon dance your way out with way too many ginger candies.

Yu and Me Books

Yu and Me Books is less of a bookstore and more of a living library showcasing the stories of immigrants within the community. It’s a home for those who feel underrepresented and a meeting place for bookworms in Chinatown. So, grab a coffee or beer and open your heart and mind to intimate tales not widely told until now.

Browse our full collection of Epic Trips and Mini Trips , including incredible Asian itineraries in Japan and South Korea .

This is an updated version of an article written by Henna Choudhary .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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The Ultimate Guide to Chinatown San Francisco

Ready to fill your itinerary with all of the best things to do in Chinatown San Francisco? Here’s everything you need to know.

November 14, 2023

Chinatowns in California are hugely significant to the state's history and ethnically diverse culture. And Chinatown San Francisco might just be the most remarkable one of them all. Not only is this iconic district the oldest of its kind in North America, but it’s also one of San Francisco’s most visited and photographed landmarks for good reason.  The San Francisco Chinatown is a standout part of the city.

Chinatown San Francisco boasts some of the city’s best dim sum restaurants, boba shops, galleries, and karaoke bars, and oozes with a rich history and ever-evolving culture. You can find some great clothing or other products at the China town market. Plus, this ethnic enclave is one of the most walkable areas in the city, so you won’t have an issue spending an entire day exploring it on foot.

Ready to fill your itinerary with all of the best things to do in Chinatown San Francisco? Here’s everything you need to know.

Chinatown San Francisco History

As one of the oldest and most established ethnic enclaves in the United States, Chinatown San Francisco has a history that dates back to the 1850s when many immigrants came to California in pursuit of riches during the Gold Rush Era . However, it wasn’t a smooth ride from thereon, especially after the Chinese Exclusion Act was passed in 1882.

For many decades following the exclusion act, Chinatown San Francisco was a bachelor society. It wasn’t until the act was repealed that Chinatown San Francisco got a fresh start and the chance to flourish. Today, it’s one of the most visited Chinatowns in the country and continues to be an area where new immigrants settle. In fact, it’s the most densely populated neighborhood west of New York City.

Spanning 24 city blocks, Chinatown San Francisco is one of the centerpieces of Chinese American history and hosts the largest Chinese New Year parade in the country—that’s a must-add to your San Francisco bucket list .  You can find some delicious food at local spots like Great Eastern or do some karaoke at Bow Bow.

Cool Things to See In Chinatown San Francisco

Dragon Gate San Francisco

The Dragon Gate was designed and erected by Chinese American architect Clayton Lee in 1970 at the Southern End of Chinatown. Acting as an unofficial entrance to the neighborhood , the postcard-famous Dragon Gate in San Francisco is adorned with gorgeous and intricate details. The stone pillars, green-tiled roofs, and dragon sculptures will catch your eye immediately. Look closer and you’ll notice that the three entryways are guarded by a trio of stone lion statues, which are meant to ward off evil. 

Chinese Culture Center

The Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco is an anchor in Chinatown and a super cool spot to visit. Founded in 1965, this community-based, non-profit organization largely focuses on art exhibitions and interventions, as well as radical social justice and educational initiatives. Visit to see rotating exhibits featuring well-known and emerging contemporary artists and get your dose of art in Chinatown San Francisco at one of the top cultural centers in town.

Old Saint Mary’s Cathedral

Old Saint Mary’s was originally constructed in 1854, making it the oldest cathedral in the state. Made of bricks entirely imported from China and recognized by the distinctive clock on its tower, this Gothic Revival Catholic church is an interesting thing to see in Chinatown San Francisco. 

Fun fact: the city's first English lessons for Chinese immigrants took place under the church's clock tower.

Chinese Historical Society of America Museum

As a small museum exploring the Chinese American experience in the United States, the Chinese Historical Society of America provides great insight into the neighborhood’s culture and history. Housed in a building designed by Julia Morgan—the architect behind the Hearst Castle—the exterior of this museum is almost as incredible as its interior. For a nominal cost, you can tour the museum and see it through a different lens.

Kong Chow Temple

Founded in 1849 by the Cantonese people of San Francisco, the Kong Chow Temple is a must-see Chinatown San Francisco landmark. Like many other buildings in the area, the temple was destroyed in the 1906 earthquake, but the community worked together to rebuild it. Photography is not allowed inside the temple, so visit, admire, and be present, keeping in mind that it’s a religious landmark.

Fun Things to Do In Chinatown San Francisco

Stuff your face at china live.

China Live is one of the most popular attractions in Chinatown San Francisco —it spans 30,000 square feet and two levels, and offers multiple ways to eat, drink, and sample the flavors of the Far East. On the ground floor, you’ll find a market-style restaurant and bar, a tea cafe, and a retail space selling spices, condiments, produce, and cookware. The second floor is where the famous Eight Tables is located; founder George Chen’s upscale, reservation-only restaurant you can’t help but love.

Wash it Down at Red Blossom Tea Company

How can you visit Chinatown San Francisco and leave without drinking a cup of delicious tea? Visit the family-owned Red Blossom Tea Company and you’ll be doing yourself a large favor. Each year, the owners take a trip through the provinces and collect new varieties of black, white, herbal, and rare teas . Don’t shy away from asking questions on the different varieties and be prepared to have a newfound appreciation for Chinese tea culture.

Get a Dim Sum to Go From Good Mong Kok Bakery

Good Mong Kok is a tiny bakery in Chinatown San Francisco that has become one of its most celebrated fixtures. With no indoor seating and a fast-moving counter, the bakery is bound to be a super quick stop on your list of things to do in Chinatown San Francisco. Choose from the wide variety of delicacies and grab a steamy bun to go as you continue your day exploring Chinatown San Francisco .

Tour the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory in San Francisco

The famous Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory in San Francisco is marked by red lanterns hanging out front. A truly fascinating stop in the neighborhood, this factory began operating in 1962. You’ll see a handful of workers hunched over, folding messages into cookies by hand and making as many as 20,000 cookies a day to provide to hundreds of local restaurants. You’ll also find varieties of fortune cookies available for purchase—from green tea to chocolate-coated—and can even personalize your own fortune for only a dollar apiece.

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15 awesome things to do in binondo, manila's chinatown this 2023.

Planning to explore Binondo? Check out this article on the top best things to do in Binondo and discover what Manila's Chinatown has to offer!

15 awesome things to do in (and near) binondo manila.

1. Binondo Food Trip

Where to eat in binondo here are some of my recommendations:.

• Tea Brothers
• New Po Heng Lumpia House
• Wai Ying Fast Food
• Dong Bei Dumplings
• Sincerity Restaurant
• Shanghai Fried Siopao
• Ying Ying Tea House
• Lan Zhou La Mien
• Cafe Mezzanine

For a more detailed post where and what to eat, and how to plan an amazing Binondo Food Crawl, please visit this Binondo Food Trip Guide Blog .

2. Be Amazed by the Filipino - Chinese Friendship Arch

3. Visit Binondo Church

4. Learn about Chinatown's rich history at Chinatown Museum

5. Shopping at Lucky Chinatown Mall

6. Visit Sta. Cruz Church

7. Enjoy the view at the Newly-restored Jones Bridge

8. Walk along the Old Streets of Escolta

9. Visit Quiapo Church

10. Shop at Carvajal Street

11. Visit Seng Guan Temple

12. Bargain hunting along Ongpin Street

13. Light an incense at the Sto. Cristo De Longos de Binondo Shrine

14. Celebrate Chinese New Year in Binondo

15. Pasalubong Shopping

• Eng Bee Tin
• Salazar Bakery
• Ho-Land Hopia
• Lord Stow’s Bakery
• Polland Hopia Factory and Cafe

How to get to Binondo?

Where to stay hotels in binondo, follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 0 comments :, post a comment.

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

Your Trip to Seattle: The Complete Guide

The Best Time to Visit Seattle

Seattle Weather & Climate

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

Budget Seattle Hotels

Driving in Seattle

How to Get Around Seattle

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Skiing Near Seattle

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The Best Parks in Seattle

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48 Hours in Seattle

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The 10 Best Things to Do in Seattle's Chinatown-International District

Seattle’s Chinatown-International District (CID) is more than any old Chinatown. While the neighborhood started as a Chinese-dominant area during the 1800s, it has since morphed into a mishmash of many cultures, mostly Asian, coming together for intercontinental traditions and delicious food. The restaurants in this district are abundant and well worth exploring.

Any day of the year, this diverse district is an excellent place to shop, museum hop, or go for a nature walk with a bubble tea in hand. While the CID is not always a bustling place, make no mistake: This neighborhood knows how to throw a good party. Keep your eye on the Seattle Chinatown-International District Preservation and Development Authority (SCIDpda) calendar for colorful, multicultural events, and make sure to keep this list in mind when you're heading off to explore all the neighborhood has to offer.

Admire the Cherry Trees at Kobe Terrace

Seattle Parks & Recreation / Flickr

It may only be an acre, but Kobe Terrace is a beloved CID green space for two main features: its four-ton, 200-year-old Yukimidoro stone lantern and Mt. Fuji cherry trees, both gifts from Seattle's sister city, Kobe, Japan, after which the terraced park is named. Adorned with charming pathways through pines and pink blossoms—ideal for viewing in spring—Kobe Terrace is a great walking destination; it even provides a view of Mount Rainier to the south. On the lower level is the Danny Woo Community Garden, consisting of 88 plots cared for by local, Asian gardeners.

Shop at Uwajimaya

Like most Seattle neighborhoods, the CID is great for shopping. You’ll find intimate herb shops, a few galleries, and other standout shopping opportunities, but if you only go to one store in the area, make it Uwajimaya. This massive Asian supermarket is packed with imported treats and ready-to-eat foods, from sushi to traditional Japanese candies. It also has a food court featuring Hawaiian, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese flavors, and a Japanese bookstore, Kinokuniya , stocked with manga, anime, collector items, and plushies galore.

Snap a Photo at the Historic Chinatown Gate

Bruce Yuanyue Bi / Getty Images

The historic Chinatown gate is no stranger to Instagram, so this is the spot to hit if you're looking to snap some great photos. Made from 8,000 ceramic tiles, the gate can be found on the east end of the neighborhood. It resembles the intricate gates marking the entrances to many towns in China and is a sneak peek of the wonderful Asian flavors you’re about to encounter.

Visit the Wing Luke Museum

Jules Antonio / flickr / (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Don’t expect dry, stuffy, large museums here. The community-based Wing Luke Museum  of the Asian Pacific American Experience focuses on the city's Asian history and culture, showcasing everything from the works of Bruce Lee to the Korean-American experience. It's certainly on the small side, but the exhibits are mighty enlightening and a tour through a historic hotel is included in the price of admission.

Partake in a Festival

Joe Mabel / Flickr

The CID knows how to party. It's home to a number of cultural festivals throughout the year, from Bon Odori—part of the huge Seafair summer festival, traditionally for honoring ancestors with Taiko drums, food, a beer garden, and dancing in the streets—to Dragonfest, a grand culmination of food, performances, and markets. Both are in July.

Anime lovers will want to look out for April's Sakura-Con Anime Costume Contest , and foodies for the annual Night Market and Autumn Moon Festival in fall, when more than 30 food trucks gather in the district with all sorts of Asian dishes on offer. The biggest celebration of the year, however, is the Lunar New Year celebration, warranting lion dances, martial arts, Japanese Taiko drumming, a $3 Food Walk where local restaurants can be sampled, and cultural performances on a big stage in the CID.

Become a Pinball Wizard

Seattle Pinball Machine

It has nothing to do with Asian culture, but the Seattle Pinball Museum happens to be located in the Chinatown-International District, offering wildly nostalgic entertainment while waiting for restaurants to clear out or otherwise. Don’t expect placards and exhibits about pinball here; rather, this "museum" houses more than 50 vintage pinball machines and sells cold beer for optimum playing. You get unlimited goes for a flat entry fee.

Dip Into Dim Sum

nesneJkraM / Getty Images 

Dim sum is a meal of small plates from a selection of oriental delicacies. Dumplings served inside bamboo steamer baskets and sauces to dip them in are dished up from little carts wheeled around the restaurant. Most big Chinese restaurants in the Chinatown-International District—such as Jade Garden, Harbor City, Honey Court, Ocean Star, and Purple Dot Cafe—serve the traditional Cantonese specialty breakfast through lunch. 

Stroll Through Hing Hay Park

Noah Kreyenhagen / TripSavvy

Hing Hay Park, whose name translates to "Park for Pleasurable Gatherings," sits in the heart of the CID. The stairs from Maynard Street lead to a red-brick square with a beautiful Chinese-style Grand Pavilion designed and constructed in Taipei, Taiwan. On one side is a dragon mural and all around are picnic spots in the expansive plaza with cafe tables, trees, and lighted Asian figures. Hing Hay Park is where many festivals, including the Lunar New Year and Dragonfest celebrations, are held. 

Refresh With a Bubble Tea

Bubble tea is a popular drink in which milk and sugar are added to traditional brewed tea. This Taiwanese beverage was invented in Tainan and Taichung in the 1980s and has spread internationally since. Most bubble tea starts with freshly brewed tea, hot or cold, and then you can have it blended with milk and toppings like tapioca pearls, puddings, or gels. Look for the treat at Oasis Tea Zone and Ambrosia.

Stay at the Panama Hotel

Joe Mabel / WikiCommons / CC BY-SA 3.0

The CID is also home to the historic Panama Hotel , originally opened in 1910 with five stories of single-occupancy rooms for Japanese laborers. It was designed by Seattle’s first architect of Japanese ancestry, Sabro Ozasa, and contained a Japanese bathhouse, or sento , in its basement, still on display. The renovated rooms are small and there are shared bathrooms, but you'll get the full experience of what it was like to stay at the Panama a century ago. The hotel has a restaurant and a bar, too.

Taipei Times. "Who Invented Bubble Tea?" November 13, 2018

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11 Things to See & Do in Penn Quarter & Chinatown

From presidential portraits to pro sports games, penn quarter & chinatown buzz all day and night..

Sports and entertainment destination. Museum-hopping paradise. Shopping mecca.  Penn Quarter & Chinatown  is one of DC’s most varied neighborhoods, in an energetic, go-all-day-and-night way. Venture here and you’ll encounter a vibrant urban hub. Don’t be surprised when you step off the Metro and encounter a 60-foot high Chinese archway and bright neon lights. Visitors should expect plenty of foot traffic, elaborately dressed storefronts and energy-filled restaurants in these neighborhoods.

Catch pro sports action (or your favorite artist!) at the Capital One Arena

clyde via Flickr

The energy reaches a raucous, fever pitch on game nights at the  Capital One Arena , when hundreds of jersey-clad fans turn out to root for the Washington Capitals and the NBA's Washington Wizards . In addition to hosting sporting events, the venue also stages top world-class acts, like Beyoncé, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Taylor Swift and other arena-worthy performers.

If you're driving to Capital One Arena to catch a game or see your favorite artist in concert, make sure to  reserve your parking spot with SpotHero  to save up to 50%.

Explore all of these off-the-Mall museums

@syang

The museums along the National Mall draw raves, but that’s just part of the story. Get the full scoop at the Newseum, an interactive museum devoted to the history of the news (locals love the Pulitzer Prize Photographs Gallery). Nearby, there's the National Portrait Gallery and Smithsonian American Art Museum . The National Portrait Gallery holds the most complete set of portraits of U.S. Presidents outside of the White House. If you prefer lifelike wax figures of presidents to portraits, then Madame Tussauds is for you. Nearby there's the National Law Enforcement Museum , where visitors can participate in a training simulator and learn about the past, present and future of law enforcement. You can also discover fascinating Civil War history and the incredible work of Clara Barton at the Clara Barton Missing Soldiers Office Museum . If there’s a hidden gem among them, consider it the National Building Museum , whose sprawling Great Hall is among the highlights of any exhibit throughout the city.

Catch a show at Ford’s Theatre

Carol Rosegg / Ford's Theatre

The 1862 playhouse where President Abraham Lincoln was fatally shot also still functions as a working theater. Take in mostly American-themed shows (and an annual production of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”) amid the grand Victorian decor.

Get to know celeb Chef José Andres

@zaytinyadc

Spirited, James Beard Award-winning José Andres runs multiple restaurants around DC. Three of the longest-running are located in Penn Quarter, including Greek-Turkish foodie temple Zaytinya , brightly decorated Mexican spot Oyamel and Jaleo , Andres’ tapas-focused tribute to his native Spain.

Browse luxe labels at CityCenterDC

Summer Evening in Palmer Alley at CityCenterDC - Where to Shop and Eat in Downtown Washington, DC

On 10 acres with sleek walkways and glassy street-level businesses, CityCenterDC is home to high-end boutiques including a dazzling, multi-level Dior outpost, Italian cashmere source Loro Piana and menswear power Paul Stuart . Shop - or window-shop - these retail riches between 9th and 11th streets NW between H Street NW and New York Avenue NW.

Do dim sum or duck in Chinatown

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DC’s Chinatown – just look for the Friendship Arch – centers on the a few blocks along H and I streets NW between 5th and 8th streets NW. Try nearby restaurants, like Reren , serving up local-favorites like dim sum, homemade noodles and roasted duck.

Craft a caffeine zing!

La Colombe

Coffee lovers, this area has you covered, whether your preferred coffee shop experience is busting out some work or enjoying a sweet. For the coffee snob, we recommend  Dolcezza , located in the buzzing CityCenterDC, which is equal parts coffeeshop and gelateria, and features Stumptown beans with its homespun, ice-cold Italian ice creams.  Chinatown Coffee Co.  serves Intelligentsia, Novo and Counter Culture varieties, while  Rare Sweets  has a sweet deal with the coffee roasting pros at  La Colombe  worked out in which it offers the company's coffees alongside the bakery’s signature treats (read: double chocolate cake). Speaking of La Colombe, you'll also find the cafe in the neighborhood.

Enjoy a classic play or avant-garde production

Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company

If your entertainment taste runs toward Sondheim, not slapshots, head to a show at the Tony Award-winning  Shakespeare Theatre Company , which has two playhouses in the neighborhood, or edgy  Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company , with its roster of new American plays in a bright, mod space.

Honor fallen heroes at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial - Washington, DC

The names of more than 20,000 law enforcement officers who have been killed in the line of duty are carved on long, blue-gray marble walls at this park-like memorial . Statues of lions and their cubs at four corners of the site represent the protective nature of those who serve.

Laugh at political jokes during a Capitol Steps show

The Capitol Steps

For more than three decades, this wisecracking comedy troupe has been skewering politicos on both sides of the aisle. Expect ripped-from-the-headlines skits and pun-ridden songs (“Deleter of the Facts” sung to the tune of “Leader of the Pack”).

Check out the quirky Victorian Temperance Fountain

Tim Evanson

In the 1880s, when the temperance movement was going strong, a booze-hating dentist named Henry D. Cogswell erected a tiny stone pavilion capped with a statue of a crane at 7th Street and Indiana Ave. NW. It once featured a water fountain, now, dry, to encourage teetotaling.

Now that you’re a Penn Quarter & Chinatown pro, explore these other DC neighborhoods.

More About DC

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The 11 best things to do in Chinatown

Explore L.A.’s Chinatown with our picks of things to do including the most interesting tours, attractions and restaurants

Though small in terms of area, there are enough things to do in Chinatown to fill an afternoon (and maybe a little bit into the evening if you want to see the Central Plaza’s famous neon trim switch on). Of course, you’ll find the tastiest dim sum west of the San Gabriel Valley , but there are also grocery stores that stock those hard-to-find ingredients, under-the-radar art galleries, cultural festivals, dimly lit dive bars  and a culinary scene that’s often abuzz.

Chinatown roughly occupies an area between the 101 and 110 freeways and the L.A. River. Most of the major attractions are along Hill Street and Broadway, north of Cesar Chavez Avenue—but a bustling scene has also blossomed just off an industrial stretch of Spring Street near the river.

So, take a tour of the area’s attractions and discover some of the best activities, both inside and outside of the Central Plaza, with our guide to the best things to do in Chinatown.

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Best things to do in Chinatown

1.  Chinatown Central Plaza

• Things to do

When Chinatown relocated to its current spot in the 1930s, the Central Plaza was to be the neighborhood’s vibrant hub of activity. The neon-drenched square still attracts tourists and locals alike with its shops, restaurants and events such as  Summer Nights  and Chinatown After Dark . Local lore often credits the the backlot-like look of the area to Cecil B. DeMille, but it was in fact designed by the local Chinese community. There was, however, a Hollywood-backed (and highly orientalist) competitor named China City that burned down in the ’40s.

2.  Far East Plaza

• Restaurants
• price 1 of 4

Far East Plaza looks unassuming from the outside, but step into the corridor of this pioneering multicultural shopping mall to find a mart overflowing with local character. It wasn’t so long ago that the most notable spot here was a two-story supermarket. These days, though, it’s all about the amazing food: hot chicken legend Howlin’ Ray’s , Filipino face Lasita  and burger spot Amboy , among them.

3.  Los Angeles State Historic Park

• Event spaces

With 32 acres of open space directly adjacent to Chinatown, L.A. State Historic Park boasts an amazing view of Downtown. The park was once home to major events like FYF, Renegade Craft Fair and Hard Summer, but all went quiet with a major multi-year renovation that started in 2014. Upon its completion in spring 2017, the park redesign added drought tolerant landscaping, a scenic overlook bridge and an orange grove—and, over time, the return of festival-sized events.

4.  Philippe the Original

• Sandwich shops

In business since 1908, Philippe the Original is one of two local spots that claims to have invented the French dip sandwich . Savvy customers select the traditional lamb or lighter turkey filling, then ask the server to double-dip the bread in the meaty juice; a French-dip sandwich is also incomplete without some of the sinus-clearing house mustard. The wines by the glass aren’t bad, a concession to the lunch trade from nearby City Hall.

5.  Chinese American Museum

While CAM’s address in El Pueblo might seem a little incongruous, its location is actually very appropriate. This was L.A.’s original Chinatown, and the Garnier building, in which part of the museum sits, is the most historic Chinese structure in the area: It was built in 1890, when Chinese immigrants comprised the majority in this part of town. It’s been home to a number of community organizations. Exhibits spotlight the history of L.A.’s Chinatown and the more general experience of Chinese Americans in the U.S.

6.  Union Station

Union Station may sit just on the outskirts of Chinatown today, but this plot of land was once the heart of Old Chinatown. (In fact, the original neighborhood was flat-out demolished to make room for the station.) Opened in 1939, it was the last of the great American rail stations to be built, at a cost of $11 million at the time. By 1971, just seven passenger trains were running here a day. Today, it’s a bit busier: the Mission-style exterior, marble floors, high ceilings and decorative tiles make it  a handsome place  for over 60,000 travelers each day. However, don’t confuse it with the Spanish colonial post office that stands next to it.

7.  Thien Hau Temple

The hip-and-gable roof and meticulously crafted columns of the Thien Hau Temple stand out amidst the neighboring boxy condos and apartment complexes. You’ll find the Taoist temple at the center of activity with dance performances and firecracker displays around Chinese New Year. And though you’d never know it from the architecture, the building reopened in 2005 after it had been used as a Christian church in L.A.’s now-defunct Little Italy.

8.  The Undiscovered Chinatown Walking Tour

• Walks and tours

Discover Chinatown’s hidden spots—from a temple and herbal shop to an art gallery, antique stores and bargain shops—on this once-a-month, 2.5-hour guided, walking tour. Learn about the area’s rich history while navigating through vibrant courtyards, alleyways and plazas.

9.  Highland Park Brewery Chinatown

With loads of natural light and an industrial-chic feel, Highland Park Brewery’s Chinatown warehouse has become one of the go-to hangouts in the neighborhood. Picnic-bench-style seating provides a great place to perch while enjoying HPB’s newest beers, as does that prime patio across from Los Angeles State Historic Park.

10.  Chung King Road

Across the street from the neon glow of Chinatown Central Plaza, the well-worn, Hollywood backlot-esque appearance of Chung King Road belies the cultural hipness of the pedestrian alleyway. Some of L.A.’s best art gallery spaces have set up shop behind the worn facades, and the area transforms into a frenzy of activity during Saturday night gallery openings. Don’t get too attached to any particular gallery, though; the area’s tenants constantly change as cutting-edge artists come and go.

11.  Italian American Museum of Los Angeles

Before the construction of Union Station, the area that’s now Chinatown was home to L.A.’s Little Italy—this museum has taken up the mantle of recognizing that forgotten past. The Olvera Street-adjacent museum takes up residence in the restored Italian Hall, once a focal point of the Italian-American community from its construction in 1908 until the early 1950s. The collection includes some 6,000 artifacts, photos and documents that examine the history and contributions of Italian Americans in L.A.—including Captain America’s shield, donated by directing duo the Russo Brothers.

More things to do in Chinatown

Restaurants and bars in Chinatown

A beginner’s guide to dim sum

Shopping and grocery stores in Chinatown

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Things to Do in Chinatown Singapore | The 6 BEST Attractions

S ingapore Chinatown, which is about a 45 minute walk from Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands, is an ethnic enclave within the chic and modern city. It is in the Outram district of the Central Area. In the area known as Chinatown Singapore, you will get a first-hand view of Chinese culture – decorations, food, the way people dress, and even the building architecture. 

Although Singapore is very modern and contemporary, Chinatown retains its authenticity a great deal. The Old meets New here. 

If you are planning a visit to this incredibly posh city and want to know the best things to do in Chinatown Singapore, this travel guide details the best Chinatown attractions, plus where to eat, stay, and shop in Chinatown.

Singapore Chinatown – Quick Facts and FAQs

If you plan to visit Chinatown Singapore, here are a few quick facts and frequently asked questions that will be helpful to know before your visit.

What is Chinatown Singapore?

Chinatown is the Chinese quarter of Singapore, very close to the Marina area, Gardens by the Bay, and many of the tourist attractions that make Singapore one of the best places to visit in Asia . This culturally vibrant area is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Singapore.

Dating back to the early 19th century, Chinese immigrants settled in the area. Many of the original buildings and shophouses have been meticulously preserved. 

In Chinatown Singapore, the Chinese heritage of the original immigrants is famously celebrated here. You’ll find this long standing influence everywhere you look – from the colorful murals to the intricate facades, and ornate decorations.

Where is Chinatown in Singapore? 

Chinatown is located in Central Singapore, making it a convenient place to visit even if you only have 2 days in Singapore . There are four distinct areas or sub-areas of Chinatown – Kreta Ayer, Telok Ayer, Tanjong Pagar, Bukit Pasoh. 

There is also a second Chinatown in Singapore, which is called ‘People’s Chinatown’. In Geylang, halfway to the airport from the official Chinatown, many Chinese migrants moved here as the numbers increased. 

Many consider this to be more traditional. It is cheaper, too. The official Singapore Chinatown is close to many top attractions in the city like Clarke Quay , Bugis, Sentosa Island , Merlion Park, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens By The Bay , Singapore Flyer, and the Orchard Road , so prices are notably higher.

What streets make up Chinatown Singapore?

Chinatown is just east of Smith Street, which was known as Hei Yuan Kai or Theatre Street in Cantonese because of the famous Cantonese opera Lai Chun Yuen. Go in, and you will find a maze of narrow streets. 

There are 6 streets that make up Chinatown in Singapore  – Mosques Street, Pagoda Street, Sago Lane, Smith Street, Temple Street, and Trengganu Street. There is also a maze of small lanes and alleyways crisscrossing the area.

Why should you visit Chinatown Singapore?

If you are wondering if Chinatown Singapore is worth visiting, the short answer is yes. 

You should spend some time in Chinatown to experience the unique culture, try authentic traditional food, visit the street markets, see cultural relics, and tour the museums, galleries, and visit the parks.

What is Chinatown Singapore known for?

Chinatown is also called the ‘Place of Nightless Days’ or Bu Ye Tian. It was once a red-light area in the early 20th century. Smith Street and Keong Saik Road were infamous.

Nowadays, the district is best known for its authentic culture, beautiful temples, and delicious food.

Where to stay in Chinatown Singapore

Chinatown is one of the best areas to stay in Singapore thanks to its central location and proximity to other attractions.

Chinatown also is easily accessible by public transportation, so even if you plan to visit Universal Studios on the island of Sentosa, you can get there conveniently using the metro system. 

Hotel 1888 is a great, budget friendly hotel located in the heart of Chinatown Singapore.

Search all hotels in Chinatown Singapore HERE

Top 6 Attractions in Chinatown Singapore

Chinatown is home to several significant Chinese temples and religious sites, many of which are among the best things to see in Chinatown Singapore.

There are cultural institutions too that will help you gain a better understanding of Chinatown and this district’s original settlers. 

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

This 4-storied temple boasts a beautiful and grand prayer hall with high ceilings, a bell tower and a drum tower.

Visit the temple and see the solid gold stupa (pagoda), which hosts the sacred god, made according to the guidelines of the Tang Dynasty. The temple serves as a sacred repository for what is believed to be a tooth relic of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism – hence the name Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

There is also a giant prayer wheel on the roof-top. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple also houses a museum that exhibits more than 300 artifacts.

Sri Mariamman Temple

An impressive architectural gem, Sri Mariamman is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. Built to honor Goddess Mariamman, who is believed to have the power to cure disease, the temple is adorned with ornate carvings and colorful sculptures of deities. 

The temple is built with a South Indian Dravidian-style architecture. It is busiest during the Thimithi festival in October or November.

While this temple is a sacred place of worship for Hindus, it is open to all visitors – both spiritual visitors and culturally curious guests.

Thian Hock Keng Temple

Thian Hock Keng Temple, also known as the Tianfu Temple, is another historic Chinese temple located in Singapore’s Chinatown that is worth visiting. Built in 1839, it is the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore. 

Thian Hock Keng Temple is dedicated to Mazu Po, the goddess of the sea, and is a place of worship for the Hokkien Chinese community. Its peaceful ambiance and ornate design continue to captivate visitors.

Hong Lim Park 

Hong Lim Park, also known as Speaker’s Corner, is a public park nestled in the heart of Central Singapore on the edge of Chinatown. It serves as the country’s designated space for public speeches, demonstrations, and gatherings, making it a symbol of free speech and democratic expression. 

Located at North Canal Road, social gatherings are often held at the park, like the National Day celebrations and music concerts.

The park features lush greenery, a picturesque pond, and a variety of recreational amenities, making it a popular spot for relaxation and leisure activities, as well.

Chinatown Heritage Centre 

The Chinatown Heritage Centre is one of the best museums in Singapore and a great place to delve into the most interesting facts about Singapore and its history. Located on Pagoda Street, the museum offers a window into the history and culture of Singapore’s Chinatown.

Housed in a restored shophouse, the museum takes visitors on a journey back in time to the early days of Chinatown, showcasing the lives and experiences of early Chinese immigrants who settled in Singapore. 

Inside, meticulously recreated and preserved displays of period rooms, street scenes, and personal artifacts provide a vivid and insightful look into the challenges, dreams, and aspirations of the early Chinese community. 

Admire the Detailed Murals

One of the most endearing things to do in Chinatown Singapore is to simply wander the streets and take in the beautiful murals that adorn its streets and alleyways.

These painted murals serve as a visual tapestry that tells the cultural stories of the Chinese community in Singapore. 

From depictions of daily life in old shophouses to traditional Chinese folklore, the murals add to the neighborhood’s charm and heritage.

BOOK A WALKING TOUR THROUGH CHINATOWN AND LITTLE INDIA

The Pinnacle@Duxton

The Pinnacle@Duxton is a 50th-floor sky bridge offering panoramic views of the Singapore skyline.

Located in the Tanjong Pagar district of Chinatown, this public housing development is renowned for its distinctive and innovative design, featuring seven towering residential blocks interconnected by sky bridges. 

Completed in 2009, The Pinnacle@Duxton also boasts unique rooftop gardens, filled with greenery and recreational amenities.

Where to Eat in Chinatown Singapore

Most people visit Chinatown Singapore to try authentic traditional food. You will find restaurants, bars, and even food courts, but be sure to try the food from street vendors, as well. 

Here are some of the best places to eat in Chinatown Singapore.

Singapore Chinatown Food Street

Food Street is lined with hawkers and roadside shops. You will find flavors from all over Southeast Asia here.  Food Street has many street vendors offering the traditional satay, Hainanese chicken rice, and noodles.

Try stingray, satay on skewers, kway teow, roasted duck, and Hainanese chicken rice. 

You will also find many boutiques, wine bars, and souvenir streets.

Chinatown Complex Food Centre

With more than 260 food stalls, the Chinatown Complex Food Centre is the largest hawker center in Singapore. With a dizzying array of culinary offerings spread across two levels, this hawker center is a food lover’s paradise.

Maxwell Food Centre 

Maxwell Hawker Centre is a culinary delight where locals and tourists to Singapore flock to find some of the city’s most beloved street food dishes, like dim sum, rice porridge, fish balls and noodles.

Hawker culture is a quintessential part of Singapore’s culinary scene. Hawker centers are basically food courts where you’ll find lots of street food stalls selling quick, affordable meals.

Amoy Street Food Centre

Located on the edge of Chinatown and the central business district, tucked away amidst Singapore’s tall buildings, the Amoy Street Food Center boasts plenty of stalls, but the tables fill up quickly.

This is a popular spot to grab a meal for both locals and passersby.

BOOK A HAWKER FOOD TOUR IN CHINATOWN

Chinatown Nightlife

Chinatown is throbbing after dark. The most famous night spots are at Ann Siang Hill and Club Street. There are cool bars, screening rooms, and Tippling clubs. There are gay bars too in the area. B28 is a star attraction along with Backstage Bar, Barrio Chino, Breeze, Cow and Coolies Pub.

For those visiting Singapore with kids, be sure to Check out the Chinatown Street Market, where you can find great souvenirs and, yes, even more food! 

Shopping at Chinatown

Singapore offers some of the best shopping of any city in Asia, rivaling Hong Kong for that distinct title.

Besides street markets, Chinatown also offers shopping opportunities in its numerous boutique stores, selling everything from antiques and traditional clothing to contemporary fashion and accessories.

Ann siang Road 

Ann Siang Road is just one of the popular shopping options in Singapore’s Chinatown. Visitors will find a distinctive shopping experience with a wide variety of retail establishments available there. 

For those looking for a great shopping experience in Singapore , Ann Siang Road is a must-visit location with everything from fashion boutiques to specialty shops.

China Square Central Flea Market 

The China Square Central Flea Market is another great shopping choice for anyone hunting for one-of-a-kind gems. It’s a fun and unique place to visit because of its lively atmosphere and varied range of merchants. 

Chinatown Complex 

The Chinatown Complex is not only a food center, it is a premier shopping location found in Singapore’s bustling Chinatown neighborhood. 

This complex provides a large selection of shop choices, including conventional Chinese items, apparel, jewelry, and mementos. Visitors can experience a range of regional and international cuisine at the complex’s active food center and take in the  lively ambiance and varied offerings. 

The Chinatown Complex is the ideal location for those looking for unusual presents or just wanting to fully immerse themselves in Singapore’s rich culture.

Tanjong Pagar Plaza 

A wide variety of shopping opportunities are available in Tanjong Pagar Plaza, which is situated in Singapore’s thriving Chinatown. 

This business district is home to a variety of retail establishments, including clothing boutiques, electronics retailers and specialty businesses. You’ll also find various restaurants and bars along the plaza. 

Like it? Pin this guide to the best things to do in Chinatown Singapore to save it for later!

Do you have a comment or question about what to do in Chinatown Singapore? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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Restaurants, Food and Drink | Leave Chicago’s winter blues behind and think…

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Things To Do

Restaurants, food and drink, restaurants, food and drink | leave chicago’s winter blues behind and think cherry blossom pink with japanese snacks and drinks.

During cherry blossom season in Japan, folks participate in “hanami,” which translates to “flower watching.” Friends, co-workers and families spread blankets under the blossoming trees, eat a bento or share a picnic, and contemplate the beauty of the sakura petals falling around them.

There’s no reason not to celebrate the arrival of spring with some Japanese-style activities right here in Chicago. The city has a large grove of 190 cherry blossom trees in Jackson Park, just south of the Museum of Science and Industry. The Chicago Park District issues “ Cherry Blossom Watch ” updates on its website each April — follow along to see when the pink and white blossoms will peak.

Chicago offers numerous ways to celebrate Japanese food and drink culture, so we rounded up a few suggestions for fun things to do and see during cherry blossom season.

Aji Ichiban

Visit Aji Ichiban in Chinatown for a huge and colorful selection of Japanese candy. The chain was founded in Hong Kong and you’ll find all manner of Asian sweets and savories enticingly displayed in open bins to grab by the handful. Fill your bag with grape Hi-Chews (Japan’s most popular flavor), matcha fun-size Kit-Kats (or if you are very lucky, the limited sake sakura flavor), umeboshi (salted plums) and chewing gum shaped like cheeseburgers to munch on your visit to Jackson Park. 2117-A South China Place, 312-804-8686, facebook.com/ichibansnackschicago

Hanabusa Cafe

Fuel up for a day outdoors with a plate of wondrous Japanese-style souffle pancakes at Hanabusa Cafe. Served with all sorts of fruity toppings and sauces, these jiggly treats will set the mood for sakura season. 29 E. Madison St, 312-584-0455, hanabusacafechicago.com

Konbini & Kanpai

At Lakeview’s Japanese convenience store and bottle shop hybrid Konbini & Kanpai, you’ll find sake, shochu, craft beer and plenty of sweet and salty snacks. Jun-Jun Vichaikul, who owns the shop with his wife Naomi Hattori, stocks several types of sake made from sakura yeast, extracted from cherry blossoms, which imparts a “soft and aromatic” flavor to the brew, plus a sakura cola. The store also offers a seasonal roster of events and classes such as its popular origami workshops, and for cherry blossom season, a “build and sip” event where guests can put together a Lego cherry tree that changes color while enjoying beverages. Their upcoming Wrigleyville location will offer a varied menu of bento boxes, shokupan sandwiches and lots more at 3443 N. Sheffield Ave. 1433 W. Belmont Ave., 312-884-9780, konbiniandkanpai.com

If you are feeling spendy, Miru in the sparkly new St. Regis Hotel offers a Tokyo Breakfast with a view, including salmon, rice, oshinko (pickled vegetables) and miso soup. On weekends, there’s an expanded brunch menu of Japanese specialties including chawanmushi (steamed egg custard) and shichimi eggplant. 401 E. Wacker Drive, 11th floor, 312-725-7811, mirurestaurant.com

Mitsuwa Marketplace

It’s no secret that the massive Mitsuwa Marketplace , a Japanese grocery store and food court in Arlington Heights, offers an unmatched selection of Japanese items — produce, a stunning seafood counter, condiments, dry goods, a bakery, beverages — and prepared foods, and folks stand in line for ramen, udon, yakitori and matcha soft-serve next door. But don’t sleep on the attached bookstore, Kinokuniya, for an absorbing journey into the seductive world of Japanese manga, books, stationery, toys, Gundam model kits, action figures and puzzles.   100 E. Algonquin Road, Arlington Heights, 847-956-6699,  mitsuwa.com/ch/

Murasaki Sake Lounge

Stop by Murasaki Sake Lounge in Streeterville to try the Sakura Kiss, a sweet creamy cocktail that’s a tribute to the cherry blossom, made with iichiko shochu, nigori sake and white chocolate liqueur. 211 E. Ontario St., 312-366-2280, murasakichicago.com

Nobu Chicago

In the West Loop, Nobu launched a Tanoshi Hour from 3 to 6 p.m. on weekdays where you can grab Wagyu sliders, sake-infused cocktails and sushi. 854 W. Randolph St., 312-779-8800, noburestaurants.com/chicago/home

Sando Street

In Tokyo, department store basement food halls are packed with delights that look too good to eat, such as fresh strawberry shokupan sandwiches. You can try these pretty, fruity, milk bread and whipped cream confections at the new Sando Street in Wicker Park. Don’t forget, the camera eats first.  1547 N. Ashland Ave., 773-698-6475, sandostreetchi.com

SUGOi Sweets

Visit SUGOi Sweets in West Town for handmade sakura matcha bonbons as part of their limited edition spring collection, soft serve ice cream (the strawberry sakura and matcha twist will be on offer all month) and a curated selection of Japanese teas including ceremonial matcha and premium grade sencha. Owner Elle Lei makes fresh strawberry mochi on weekends, by preorder only. 937 N. Ashland Ave., sugoisweets.com

Tokyo Last Call

Throughout April, the team at River North’s Three Dots and A Dash is hosting Tokyo Last Call, a pop-up celebration of Tokyo’s listening bars. Each week, guest mixologists from New York City and Tokyo will collaborate on playlists (to spin on a vintage jukebox that plays vinyl 45s) and exquisite cocktails to create an immersive Japanese-style bar experience. 51 W. Hubbard St., 312-610-4220, tokyolastcall.com

Lisa Futterman is a freelance writer.

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