{"id":6451,"date":"2013-05-23T21:09:58","date_gmt":"2013-05-24T01:09:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cf-staging.takewalks.com\/blog2\/?p=6451"},"modified":"2026-02-07T13:30:58","modified_gmt":"2026-02-07T12:30:58","slug":"ny-chinatown","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown","title":{"rendered":"NYC&#8217;s Chinatown: Must-See Spots, Hidden Gems, and Foodie Favorites"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Chinatown in New York City is its own destination. A great place for bargain shopping, food, history, and the chance to soak in Chinese culture. It\u2019s a fantastic neighborhood. Nevertheless, it can also be confusing and chaotic to the first-time visitor, which is why we\u2019ve written this handy guide to exploring Chinatown NYC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Take Note: <\/em><strong>New York City actually has several Chinatowns, <\/strong>including communities in Flushing, Queens and Sunset Park, Brooklyn. While we\u2019ll explore those communities in other posts, this is a tour of New York\u2019s oldest and best-known <strong>Chinatown in lower Manhattan.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0001-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"A group of people walking around Chinatown in NYC. \" class=\"wp-image-20612\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0001-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0001-600x401.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0001-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0001.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Exploring Chinatown NYC can be intense for the first-time visitor, but it&#8217;s well worth it for the delights you&#8217;ll find.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_63 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #443d47;color:#443d47\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #443d47;color:#443d47\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#A_Glimpse_into_Chinatown_NYCs_History\" title=\"A Glimpse into Chinatown NYC&#8217;s History\">A Glimpse into Chinatown NYC&#8217;s History<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#How_To_Get_To_Chinatown_NYC\" title=\"How To Get To Chinatown NYC\">How To Get To Chinatown NYC<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Top_Attractions_in_Chinatown_NYC\" title=\"Top Attractions in Chinatown NYC\">Top Attractions in Chinatown NYC<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Canal_Street_A_Shoppers_Paradise\" title=\"Canal Street: A Shopper&#8217;s Paradise\">Canal Street: A Shopper&#8217;s Paradise<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Chinatown_Information_Kiosk_Your_Navigational_Aid\" title=\"Chinatown Information Kiosk: Your Navigational Aid\">Chinatown Information Kiosk: Your Navigational Aid<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Mulberry_Street_A_Treasure_Trove_of_Nicknacks\" title=\"Mulberry Street: A Treasure Trove of Nicknacks\">Mulberry Street: A Treasure Trove of Nicknacks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Columbus_Park_The_Heartbeat_of_the_Community\" title=\"Columbus Park: The Heartbeat of the Community\">Columbus Park: The Heartbeat of the Community<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Mott_Street_The_Foundation_of_Chinatown\" title=\"Mott Street: The Foundation of Chinatown\">Mott Street: The Foundation of Chinatown<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#An_Intersection_of_Cultures_and_Cuisines\" title=\"An Intersection of Cultures and Cuisines\">An Intersection of Cultures and Cuisines<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Doyers_Street_The_Hidden_Gem\" title=\"Doyers Street: The Hidden Gem\">Doyers Street: The Hidden Gem<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Pell_Street_A_Quintessential_Postcard_Scene\" title=\"Pell Street: A Quintessential Postcard Scene\">Pell Street: A Quintessential Postcard Scene<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Chinatown_Ice_Cream_Factory_A_Sweet_Treat\" title=\"Chinatown Ice Cream Factory: A Sweet Treat\">Chinatown Ice Cream Factory: A Sweet Treat<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Mahayana_Buddhist_Temple_A_Spiritual_Retreat\" title=\"Mahayana Buddhist Temple: A Spiritual Retreat\">Mahayana Buddhist Temple: A Spiritual Retreat<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Where_to_Eat_in_Chinatown_NYC\" title=\"Where to Eat in Chinatown NYC\">Where to Eat in Chinatown NYC<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Street_Food_Adventures_on_Canal_Street\" title=\"Street Food Adventures on Canal Street\">Street Food Adventures on Canal Street<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#FAQs_%E2%80%93_Visiting_Chinatown_NYC\" title=\"FAQs \u2013 Visiting Chinatown NYC\">FAQs \u2013 Visiting Chinatown NYC<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#When_is_the_best_time_to_visit_Chinatown_NYC\" title=\"When is the best time to visit Chinatown NYC?\">When is the best time to visit Chinatown NYC?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Should_I_carry_cash_when_visiting_Chinatown\" title=\"Should I carry cash when visiting Chinatown?\">Should I carry cash when visiting Chinatown?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Are_there_any_cultural_etiquette_tips_visitors_should_know\" title=\"Are there any cultural etiquette tips visitors should know?\">Are there any cultural etiquette tips visitors should know?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\/#Are_there_any_special_events_or_parades_celebrated_in_Chinatown\" title=\"Are there any special events or parades celebrated in Chinatown?\">Are there any special events or parades celebrated in Chinatown?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_Glimpse_into_Chinatown_NYCs_History\"><\/span>A Glimpse into Chinatown NYC&#8217;s History<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In the 1870s, Chinese immigrants, fleeing persecution while toiling in the American West, began arriving in New York City. A small Chinese community took root on Mott Street. Due to outside bigotry and the cultural divide, <strong>the immigrant community was fairly separate from the rest of New York.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the ensuing decades, tales of opium dens, prostitution, and murders between warring Tongs led to the notion of Chinatown being a dangerous, mysterious quarter. In the early 20th century, New Yorkers in search of the \u201cexotic\u201d began to visit the neighborhood <strong>(particularly its restaurants)<\/strong>.<strong> Tourism had arrived in Chinatown.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 1965, discriminatory U.S. immigration policies against Asian countries <strong>were amended.<\/strong> Chinese immigrants <strong>began flooding into New York City.<\/strong> The main Chinatown NYC expanded into Little Italy and the Lower East Side, becoming home to several Asian cultures, as well as to Puerto Ricans, Dominicans, and hipster New Yorkers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/amanda-dalbjorn-vCTi5vijEy4-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Chinatown NYC busy streets\" class=\"wp-image-15231\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/amanda-dalbjorn-vCTi5vijEy4-unsplash.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/amanda-dalbjorn-vCTi5vijEy4-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/amanda-dalbjorn-vCTi5vijEy4-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/amanda-dalbjorn-vCTi5vijEy4-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chinatown has grown from one street into a huge neighborhood, full of everything you can imagine. Photo credit: Amanda Dalbj\u00f6rn<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_To_Get_To_Chinatown_NYC\"><\/span>How To Get To Chinatown NYC<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Chinatown is easy to reach by subway from anywhere in New York City. Take the <strong>N, Q, R, or W trains to Canal Street (Broadway)<\/strong>, the <strong>6 train to Canal Street (Lafayette Street)<\/strong>, the <strong>J or Z trains to Canal Street (Centre Street)<\/strong>, or the <strong>B or D trains to Grand Street<\/strong>, which sits right on Chinatown\u2019s eastern edge. All of these stops place you within a short walk of the neighborhood\u2019s main attractions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Top_Attractions_in_Chinatown_NYC\"><\/span>Top Attractions in Chinatown NYC<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before exploring Chinatown, you may want to visit<strong> <a href=\"http:\/\/www.mocanyc.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">MOCA<\/a><\/strong>, the <strong>Museum of Chinese in America<\/strong>, at 215 Centre Street (located one and a half blocks north of the subway stop). The museum features exhibits on the history of Chinese immigration to the U.S., <strong>artifacts from old Chinatown,<\/strong> a recreation of an old Chinatown general store, and<strong> rotating exhibits<\/strong> on aspects of current Chinese American culture. And then, once you\u2019ve gotten a sense of Chinatown NYC\u2019s history,<strong> it\u2019s time to explore the neighborhood on foot.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/grace-estrada-yuilQkolDRo-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Man walking in Chinatown NYC\" class=\"wp-image-15232\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/grace-estrada-yuilQkolDRo-unsplash.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/grace-estrada-yuilQkolDRo-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/grace-estrada-yuilQkolDRo-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/grace-estrada-yuilQkolDRo-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The best way to experience Chinatown is to simply walk around and explore. Photo credit: Grace Estrada<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Canal_Street_A_Shoppers_Paradise\"><\/span>Canal Street: A Shopper&#8217;s Paradise<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Begin by heading east on teeming <strong>Canal Street<\/strong>, where you can find <strong>narrow shops and stalls <\/strong>selling T-shirts, scarves, jewelry, and knock-off luxury handbags, perfumes, and watches. If you\u2019re looking for the<strong> high-end designer fakes<\/strong> like Coach, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, or Rolex, you may be lured into a tiny back room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/donny-jiang-nu3gOrpIRCg-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Shops selling clothes and luxury brands in Chinatown NYC\" class=\"wp-image-15233\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/donny-jiang-nu3gOrpIRCg-unsplash.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/donny-jiang-nu3gOrpIRCg-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/donny-jiang-nu3gOrpIRCg-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/donny-jiang-nu3gOrpIRCg-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">You can find anything and everything in these shops! Photo credit: Donny Jiang<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chinatown_Information_Kiosk_Your_Navigational_Aid\"><\/span>Chinatown Information Kiosk: Your Navigational Aid<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Continue east on Canal until it intersects with Baxter and Walker Streets. There you\u2019ll find the bright red <strong>Explore Chinatown Information Kiosk<\/strong>, which distributes maps, brochures, information, and has a handy neighborhood map on its sidewall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many <strong>small restaurants and food shops<\/strong> selling fresh fish and seafood (including live lobsters and crabs). Along the <strong>sidewalks are food carts<\/strong> offering fruits and vegetables. You can find many fruits, including dragon fruit, lychee, longan, ginger, bok choy, bean sprouts and bamboo shoots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-ziKHiYqFTRA-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Woman selling fruits in Chinatown NYC\" class=\"wp-image-15234\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-ziKHiYqFTRA-unsplash.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-ziKHiYqFTRA-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-ziKHiYqFTRA-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-ziKHiYqFTRA-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Try delicious fruits for the first time, or get some fresh seafood to take home. Photo credit: Clay Banks<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mulberry_Street_A_Treasure_Trove_of_Nicknacks\"><\/span><strong>Mulberry Street: A Treasure Trove of Nicknacks<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Take a right on <strong>Mulberry Street, <\/strong>where you\u2019ll pass several stores <strong>selling imported gifts<\/strong> of jade, pottery, tea ware, an array of Buddhas, and miscellaneous nicknacks. For a great and inexpensive snack, head to Tasty Dumpling <em>(42 Mulberry)<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A few doors down, look for Fook on Sing <em>(44 Mulberry)<\/em>, part of <strong>Chinatown\u2019s Funeral Row. <\/strong>The tiny store sells<strong> miniature cardboard items,<\/strong> from designer handbags, sports cars, flat screen TVs, mansions (complete with paper maids and security guards), plastic bottles of Cognac, even stacks of cash. The items, symbolic gifts for the deceased, are burned in <strong>traditional Chinese funeral practices.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/elric-pxl-jsxcXGe4kJU-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Chinatown NYC during night\" class=\"wp-image-15235\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/elric-pxl-jsxcXGe4kJU-unsplash.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/elric-pxl-jsxcXGe4kJU-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/elric-pxl-jsxcXGe4kJU-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/elric-pxl-jsxcXGe4kJU-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Day and night, you can explore Chinatown and get to know the culture of Chinese American citizens. Photo credit: Elric Pxl<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Columbus_Park_The_Heartbeat_of_the_Community\"><\/span>Columbus Park: The Heartbeat of the Community<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>At <strong>Bayard Street,<\/strong> you\u2019ll come to <strong>Columbus Park<\/strong>, named for the famous explorer, and a sign that, yes, this was once an Italian immigrant community (<strong>make sure to visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/new-york-tours\/\">NYC&#8217;s<\/a> Italian neighborhoods too!<\/strong>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Columbus Park was created in 1897, when the decrepit tenements of Mulberry Bend (described by Jacob Riis as a \u201cvast human pigsty\u201d) were razed. <strong>The park is the town square for the community.<\/strong> It hosts local ensembles performing <strong>Chinese opera and traditional music,<\/strong> sports on its southern field, and old-timers gathered for intense games of Chinese Chess and poker. In the pavilion, folks practice Tai Chi and meditate.<strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ahead at Worth Street once stood the hub of the infamous <strong>Five Points<\/strong>, the <strong>most dangerous slum<\/strong> in NYC history. Most know it as the seedy setting inspiring the film \u201cGangs of New York.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-0L68MOXpGKU-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Men playing Chinese chess in Columbus Park, Chinatown NYC\" class=\"wp-image-15236\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-0L68MOXpGKU-unsplash.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-0L68MOXpGKU-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-0L68MOXpGKU-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-0L68MOXpGKU-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">You can find locals playing Chinese Chess, doing Tai Chi, and more. Photo credit: Clay Banks<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mott_Street_The_Foundation_of_Chinatown\"><\/span>Mott Street: The Foundation of Chinatown<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Turn left and ascend tiny <strong>Mosco Street<\/strong> (one of lower Manhattan\u2019s few remaining hills) to <strong>Mott Street<\/strong>,<strong> <\/strong>where Chinatown was founded in the 1870s. This block was the <strong>site of the first Chinese general store<\/strong>, restaurant, Chinese-owned building, as well as home of the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Society.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the corner (to your left) is the <strong>Church of the Transfiguration<\/strong>, one of the<strong> city\u2019s oldest churches. <\/strong>Since 1801, it has served immigrant communities including the Irish, Italian, and currently the Chinese, with services conducted in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Heading south, you\u2019ll pass the new Chinatown Community Center (7-9 Mott St.). This was once the famed Port Arthur Restaurant.<strong> <\/strong>Founded in 1897, it was the first spot to draw New Yorkers and tourists with its exotic d\u00e9cor and cuisine. It served <strong>\u201cChinese\u201d delicacies like chop suey, chow mein, and egg foo yung.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1200\" height=\"832\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/annie-spratt-yM7ziIPeQwk-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Port Arthur Restaurant, Chinatown, NYC\" class=\"wp-image-15237\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/annie-spratt-yM7ziIPeQwk-unsplash.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/annie-spratt-yM7ziIPeQwk-unsplash-600x416.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/annie-spratt-yM7ziIPeQwk-unsplash-1024x710.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/annie-spratt-yM7ziIPeQwk-unsplash-768x532.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Port Arthur Restaurant in 1960. Photo credit: Annie Spratt<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"An_Intersection_of_Cultures_and_Cuisines\"><\/span>An Intersection of Cultures and Cuisines<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>At the corner, you\u2019ll come to Bowery\/Worth Street. The large intersection here is <strong>Chatham Square<\/strong>, once a grand marketplace and sordid entertainment center. On the pedestrian island stands the <strong>Kim Lau Arch<\/strong>, a memorial to Chinese Americans who fought for the U.S. in WWII.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just behind the island is Dim Sum Go Go, known for excellent, inexpensive dim sum, and the <strong>Trans World Buddhist Association<\/strong>, an information center and place of worship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The wide street heading east is <strong>East Broadway<\/strong>. It&#8217;s the main drag of the newest extension of Chinatown, populated by <strong>recent Fujianese immigrants<\/strong>. Wandering East Broadway and the three blocks to its south you\u2019ll encounter a thriving, authentic Chinese immigrant enclave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0004-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"Plates of dim sum in NYC's Chinatown. \" class=\"wp-image-20611\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0004-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0004-600x401.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0004-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0004.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chinatown is the place to eat the most delicious Dim Sum in NYC.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Doyers_Street_The_Hidden_Gem\"><\/span>Doyers Street: The Hidden Gem<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Back on Bowery, head one block north to <strong>Doyers Street<\/strong>, the crooked lane that turns at a 90-degree angle. Legend has it that Chinese merchants designed its curve <strong>to keep straight-flying ghosts<\/strong> from traversing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>The green brick building at <strong>5-7 Doyers<\/strong> was the<strong> Chinese Theater<\/strong> (1893-1913), where Chinese opera and music were performed, while its upper floors were a flophouse packed with cheap sleeping cubicles. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Under this building <\/strong>is a fascinating remnant of old Chinatown: a <strong>tunnel leading to the Bowery<\/strong>.<strong> <\/strong>Left over from the 18th century Doyers Distillery, which once stood where the<strong> concrete post office is today,<\/strong> it\u2019s said the Tongs would sometimes use this tunnel to evade the police.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>In fact, there were so <strong>many violent battles and murders<\/strong> here, Doyers was called the \u201cBloody Angle.\u201d Today, you can find small offices for (ironically) law and enforcement, in the tunnel, as well as acupuncture, Chinese medical science, dentistry, a tiny shop for Chinese herbs, and Tin Sun metaphysics, famed masters of Feng Shui.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>At 13 Doyers Street, you\u2019ll find <a href=\"http:\/\/nomwah.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Nom Wah Tea Parlor<\/strong><\/a>, the <strong>oldest extant tea parlor\/dim sum palace<\/strong> in Chinatown. There are several barbershops lining the street (fancy a hair cut?) that are holdovers from the era when Chinatown was a \u201cBachelor Society.\u201d Laws prohibited immigrants from bringing their wives and children from China.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1200\" height=\"882\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/drew-sullivan-OK-7LWLp5p8-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Chinese Barbershop in New York\" class=\"wp-image-15241\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/drew-sullivan-OK-7LWLp5p8-unsplash.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/drew-sullivan-OK-7LWLp5p8-unsplash-600x441.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/drew-sullivan-OK-7LWLp5p8-unsplash-1024x753.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/drew-sullivan-OK-7LWLp5p8-unsplash-768x564.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Barbershops have a strong cultural significance in Chinatown. Photo credit: Drew Sullivan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pell_Street_A_Quintessential_Postcard_Scene\"><\/span>Pell Street: A Quintessential Postcard Scene<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Doyers Street ends at <strong>Pell Street<\/strong>, another of the original locales of historic Chinatown. With its profusion of Chinese-character signs, it\u2019s no surprise that <strong>postcards of quintessential Chinatown<\/strong> often are taken on Pell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Turning right, you may find a crowd waiting outside <strong>Joe\u2019s Shanghai, popular for its soup dumplings.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The red brick building on the corner of Bowery is the <strong>Edward Mooney House<\/strong> (<em>18 Bowery Building<\/em>), <strong>the<\/strong> <strong>oldest house in New York.<\/strong> Built in 1785, the building has been a home, tavern, hotel, pool hall, social club, restaurant, and now a local bank.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0006-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"A woman holding a soup dumpling with her chopsticks. \" class=\"wp-image-20613\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.4970760233918128;width:779px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0006-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0006-600x401.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0006-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/Walks-New-York-WOWO-Chinatown-0006.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Reward yourself with some soup dumplings! <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chinatown_Ice_Cream_Factory_A_Sweet_Treat\"><\/span>Chinatown Ice Cream Factory: A Sweet Treat<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Take a left on the Bowery. At Bayard Street, take a detour to 65 Bayard for the renowned <strong>Chinatown Ice Cream Factory<\/strong>, serving <strong>homemade ice cream<\/strong> in distinct flavors like green tea, almond cookie, lychee, black sesame, red bean, and taro.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you reach <strong>Bowery and Canal<\/strong>, you\u2019ll find a large intersection leading to the monumental entrance of the <strong>Manhattan Bridge.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/5355328911_9dd4c24cd6_k.jpg\" alt=\"Chinatown Ice Cream Factory Cone in NYC\" class=\"wp-image-15243\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/5355328911_9dd4c24cd6_k.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/5355328911_9dd4c24cd6_k-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/5355328911_9dd4c24cd6_k-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/5355328911_9dd4c24cd6_k-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">You must try the different flavors at the Chinatown Ice Cream Factory. Photo credit: LabyrinthX<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mahayana_Buddhist_Temple_A_Spiritual_Retreat\"><\/span>Mahayana Buddhist Temple: A Spiritual Retreat<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Beside the entrance, to the northeast, sits the Mahayana Buddhist Temple, a peaceful oasis amidst otherwise chaotic streets. Inside, the walls are lined with paper strips bearing prayers and names of the deceased, along with offerings of flowers, fruit, incense and snacks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You&#8217;ll see an <strong>enormous golden seated Buddha<\/strong> and, to the right, a huge temple bell, right at the head of the main sanctuary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is an <strong>active place of worship, <\/strong>so it\u2019s important to behave with discretion and respect. Be sure to buy a scroll with your fortune, or head upstairs to the gift shop for some excellent bargains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1200\" height=\"881\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/2958376277_eddb5ae9e1_k.jpg\" alt=\"Mahayana Buddhist Temple\" class=\"wp-image-15244\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/2958376277_eddb5ae9e1_k.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/2958376277_eddb5ae9e1_k-600x441.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/2958376277_eddb5ae9e1_k-1024x752.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/2958376277_eddb5ae9e1_k-768x564.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The biggest Buddha sculpture in NYC awaits inside this Buddhist temple. Photo credit: Guill\u00e9n P\u00e9rez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_Eat_in_Chinatown_NYC\"><\/span>Where to Eat in Chinatown NYC<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Street_Food_Adventures_on_Canal_Street\"><\/span>Street Food Adventures on Canal Street<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Return to Canal Street and head west for the 5 blocks back to the subway. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hungry? There are plenty of great restaurants on Elizabeth and Mott Streets, and the <strong>Canal Street food carts<\/strong> <strong>serve steamed, grilled, and fried Chinese specialties.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-lhYu_w6pp3w-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Person cooking at a Chinese store\" class=\"wp-image-15245\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-lhYu_w6pp3w-unsplash.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-lhYu_w6pp3w-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-lhYu_w6pp3w-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clay-banks-lhYu_w6pp3w-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chinatown is always open to receiving you with its flavors and colors. Photo credit: Clay Banks<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_%E2%80%93_Visiting_Chinatown_NYC\"><\/span>FAQs \u2013 Visiting Chinatown NYC<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_is_the_best_time_to_visit_Chinatown_NYC\"><\/span>When is the best time to visit Chinatown NYC?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Late morning to mid-afternoon is ideal for sightseeing, shopping, and lunch. Many shops close earlier than in other parts of Manhattan, and some restaurants shut between lunch and dinner. Visiting on weekdays tends to be less crowded than weekends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_I_carry_cash_when_visiting_Chinatown\"><\/span>Should I carry cash when visiting Chinatown?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, many smaller shops, food stalls, bakeries, and markets prefer cash only, especially for low-cost items. ATMs are widely available in the area, but having small bills makes shopping and street food purchases easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-bca190e0 gb-headline-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_there_any_cultural_etiquette_tips_visitors_should_know\"><\/span>Are there any cultural etiquette tips visitors should know?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Be respectful when photographing people, especially elders, religious spaces, or temple interiors &#8211; always ask first. When visiting temples, dress modestly, speak quietly, and avoid blocking worshippers. Politeness and patience go a long way, especially in busy restaurants and shops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_there_any_special_events_or_parades_celebrated_in_Chinatown\"><\/span>Are there any special events or parades celebrated in Chinatown?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Chinatown hosts several vibrant cultural events throughout the year, the most famous being the Lunar New Year celebrations, usually held in January or February. Festivities include colorful parades with dragon and lion dances, traditional music, firecrackers, martial arts performances, and street fairs. Other highlights include the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival in September and various summer street fairs celebrating food, music, and community culture. These events are fantastic opportunities to experience Chinatown at its most lively and authentic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"699\" src=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/Anthony-Correia-Shutterstock-2-1024x699.jpg\" alt=\"Performers in red shirts and gold pants carry a vibrant dragon costume during a Chinese New Year parade in New York City.\" class=\"wp-image-8161\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">One of the colorful dragons in Chinatown&#8217;s Lunar New Year Parade Photo: Anthony Correia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ready to explore even more of New York City?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From Little Italy and Harlem to Brooklyn and beyond, our blog is packed with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/nyc-neighborhoods\">insider guides to NYC\u2019s most fascinating neighborhoods<\/a> <\/strong>\u2014 perfect for planning your next adventure. And if you want to take your experience to the next level, check out the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/new-york-tours\/\"><strong>expertly led tours<\/strong> from <strong>Walks <\/strong><\/a><strong> <\/strong>in New York City.  Whether it\u2019s food tastings, cultural walks, museum deep dives, or hidden-gem explorations, their <strong>local experts offer unique insight, exclusive access, and memorable stories, bringing the city to life<\/strong>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A visitor&#8217;s guide to Manhattan&#8217;s vibrant and historic Chinatown NYC. Read on to learn about the neighborhood&#8217;s history and places to explore.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":34,"featured_media":20609,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[612],"tags":[764,920,921,783,922],"ppma_author":[719,667],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v22.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Chinatown NYC: Must-See Spots, Hidden Gems, Foodie Favorites<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"A visitor&#039;s guide to Manhattan&#039;s vibrant and historic Chinatown NYC. Learn about the neighborhood&#039;s oldest extant tea parlor &amp; where to eat.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.takewalks.com\/blog\/ny-chinatown\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"NYC&#039;s Chinatown: Must-See Spots, Hidden Gems, and Foodie Favorites\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"A visitor&#039;s guide to Manhattan&#039;s vibrant and historic Chinatown NYC. 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