San Francisco’s Chinatown, a favourite among tourists, is adorned with charming red lanterns. — Photos: Pixabay
Have you ever wondered about the existence of Chinatowns around the world?
Take a look at the historical migration patterns: The Chinese diaspora was primarily driven by political turmoil and the outbreak of wars, forcing the people to leave their homeland in search of safer environments, better living conditions and employment opportunities.
As per the data collected by Academy for Cultural Diplomacy (based in Berlin, Germany), the migration initially concentrated in South-East Asia (particularly in Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia) during the 19th century, but later expanded to other parts of the globe, including the Americas, Europe and Oceania.
Many overseas Chinese turned to low-skilled jobs, became labourers in factories, mines and railroads, while others established businesses, such as restaurants and grocery stores, which gradually contributed to the growth of Chinatowns.
According to data from the California Migration Museum, the United States alone is estimated to have about 50 Chinatowns scattered across major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco in California, and New York City.
The burgeoning population of overseas Chinese in these areas contributed to the development of Chinese settlements. In the early days, these were merely living quarters, but they eventually transformed into significant cultural landmarks.
Here are six Chinatowns from different parts of the globe that are worth exploring.
Yaowarat
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Did you know that Yaowarat is the only Chinatown in Thailand?
Situated in the heart of its capital city of Bangkok along Yaowarat Road, this iconic neighbourhood features vibrant markets filled with numerous street vendors that offer a variety of mouth-watering Chinese and Thai cuisines.
You might find yourself amid throngs of locals making a beeline for their favourite stalls. Among the various local fare that can be found here are pad thai, mango sticky rice, som tum (papaya salad) and an abundance of seafood.
If you are looking to buy souvenirs, you will be able to score interesting handicrafts here, and even jewellery.
Yaowarat is more than just a treat for your tastebuds, however, as it is also visually captivating, with traditional Chinese architectural styles reflected in the facades of shophouses.
Established in 1782 during the reign of King Rama I, the streets here are rich in history. For many years, Yaowarat Road has served as a central hub for festivities and celebrations.
Chinese immigrants who settled in Yaowarat contributed their culture and skills, transforming the precinct into a bustling centre of commerce with traders selling all kinds of goods.
Despite having endured hardships including fires and floods throughout the centuries, the neighbourhood is still one of the most popular ones in the metropolis today, especially among young, adventurous travellers.
Chinatown Bangkok is open daily, and it’s a must to experience its lively atmosphere both during the day and at night. From opera performances to “adult” shows on rooftop bars, the entertainment options here are interesting, to say the least.
For a more educational tour, head to the Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Centre to learn more about the history of Chinese settlers in Thailand.
A short walk away from the area is Wat Traimit, or the Temple Of The Golden Buddha, which houses an impressive Buddha sculpture.
Other temples that you can visit nearby include Wat Mangkon Kamalawat and the Kuan Yim Shrine. At the latter, there is a 900-year-old statue of the Goddess Of Mercy that is simply mesmerising.
Yaowarat in Bangkok is popular with young, adventurous travellers. — Photos: Pixabay
Chinatown Sydney
Location: New South Wales, Australia
Having a wide variety of food choices is not all that Australia’s largest Chinatown, located in Sydney, has to offer. The biggest appeal of this old Chinese settlement is its vibrant atmosphere.
It was also the set for iconic rock star David Bowie’s 1983 music video China Girl. On top of that, this Chinatown has been featured in several films including The Wolverine (2013), starring Aussie star Hugh Jackman.
Decades before the neighbourhood became one of the most frequented attractions at its current location in Haymarket, it was merely a timber storage yard in the 1800s.
You will likely come across a sculpture entitled Golden Water Mouth at the entrance of Chinatown. Nearly 11m high, the artwork by Chinese artist Lin Li represents positive energy and harmony.
Wandering down the stone-paved pathways, you will stumble upon shophouses with intricate Asian architectural styles.
If you happen to visit on a Friday, hit its weekly night market and join the hordes of visitors on their food voyage. This is also the locals’ favourite haunt for street eats.
Shoppers can head to the Market World factory outlet for the best deals on garments and accessories.
Two other Australian cities where visitors can find Chinese quarters are Adelaide in South Australia and Melbourne in Victoria. The former is home to the smallest Chinatown in the country, while the latter has the oldest, having been established in the 1850s.
Sydney’s Chinatown is the largest one in Australia. — CHEN HUALIN/Wikimedia Commons
Check out the Golden Water Mouth at Chinatown Sydney. — City Of Sydney
Quartier Chinois
Location: Antananarivo, Madagascar
Whether you are a food lover or cultural enthusiast, the diversity of cuisine and experiences at Quartier Chinois (literally, “neighbourhood Chinese”, which then translates to Chinatown) makes it an excellent destination for both tourists and locals alike.
Located in Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar, Quartier Chinois thrives with shopping malls, food vendors and traders.
Madagascar is one of the few African nations with a notable Chinese community. Chinese influence is widespread here, as Madagascar was once the primary destination for Chinese immigrants, along with Mauritius and South Africa.
These immigrants left China to escape political turmoil in their homeland, seeking a better life and economic prospects in Madagascar.
Upon their arrival, many found work in the railway industry. Over the years, the presence of the Chinese community has significantly shaped the landscape of the city.
With its extensive selection of herbs and spices, as well as colourful textiles (which is representative of Madagascan or Malagasy culture), Quartier Chinois is a fantastic spot for those looking to indulge in some shopping. To start your tour here, set out on a culinary adventure and sample an array of Chinese dishes, often with a Malagasy twist, at the local eateries in the area.
You can also join a heritage tour led by a local guide who will offer insights into the growth of the Chinese community in the country.
Chinatown London
Location: England
Take a relaxed stroll through London’s historic Chinatown, which spans several streets, including Gerrard Street and Wardour Street.
Festively adorned with red lanterns, the neighbourhood has been a magnet for thousands of tourists and local folks for many years.
The imposing Chinatown Gate today serves as a striking backdrop for photos and videos. The structure, intricately designed with elaborate motifs, marks the entrance to Chinatown.
The neighbourhood brims with a delightful range of shops and stalls selling Asian grub, from aromatic dim sum to savoury noodle dishes.
Don’t miss the Asian supermarkets, where you can find a treasure trove of treats like mochi and instant noodles from countries such as Japan, Thailand, China and even Malaysia.
To make your visit even more special, consider planning your trip around the Chinese New Year celebrations, when the neighbourhood truly comes alive with festive parades and lion dances.
Visiting Chinatown not only delights the senses but it can also be educational: It provides an opportunity to discover the rich cultural traditions of the Chinese community in London while also being a part of the joyous spirit of the festival.
The Chinatown Gate in London.
Quartiere Cinese
Location: Milan, Italy
A trip to Chinatown in Milan, one of the world’s fashion capitals, offers a window into the rich cultural landscape that extends beyond fashion.
This old neighbourhood, nestled along Via Paolo Sarpi, promises an enriching experience for visitors.
Chinese immigrants who settled in the city engaged in silk and textile trade, playing a vital role in Milan’s status as a fashion enclave.
The influence of this Asian heritage remains strong, evident in its cuisine and clothing.
As you meander through the neighbourhood, the aroma of food and the sights of colourful shopfronts are sure to entice you.
In terms of food, there are various options available, from hand-pulled noodles to traditional dumplings. If you are craving something spicy, many restaurants also offer tantalising Sichuan dishes that are known for their spiciness.
Besides culinary offerings, the neighbourhood is home to a selection of Chinese goods as well, including exquisite silk garments and traditionally-crafted accessories.
Furthermore, you can immerse in the local culture by attending workshops or art exhibitions that are available here.
Among other interesting landmarks that are within Chinatown are the ADI Design Museum and Monumental Cemetery Of Milan, one of the largest cemeteries in the city.
Chinatown in Milan comes to life with festive celebrations every year. — MAXINMILAN/Wikimedia Commons
Chinatown
Location: San Francisco, California, the United States
San Francisco’s Chinatown, the oldest in the US and one of the most familiar ones in the history of film and television, has a long and storied background.
Established by the Chinese community during the Gold Rush in the 19th century, Chinatown (and many other parts in San Francisco) suffered a devastating blow when the 1906 earthquake struck the city.
But through resilience and determination, Chinatown – and San Francisco as a whole – was given a second chance to thrive.
Today, many visitors flock to the charming neighbourhood lined with buildings decorated with red lanterns. Some of these buildings still showcase Chinese architectural styles (life pagoda- style roofs), though much of Chinatown have also gone through gentrification, sadly.
The city’s oldest street, Grant Avenue, offers a diverse selection of eateries that are worth checking out, according to the locals.
As the sidewalks can get crowded, there is an alternate way to explore the area which is via the hidden alleyways. These walkways not only make it easier to navigate the tourist-packed area but they are also adorned with colourful artworks.
There are about 50 Chinatowns scattered across the United States, including one in New York City.
