The best Chinatowns in the world (outside of China)

If you’ve had the privilege of immersing yourself in the captivating culture of China, you’ve likely developed a deep appreciation for its sacred traditions, awe-inspiring architecture and its enchanting cuisine. But even if you haven’t had the opportunity to visit China firsthand, you can still explore its remarkable offerings in various corners of the world. 

Thanks to the presence of vibrant Chinatowns worldwide, you can savour the authentic flavours of China no matter where you are. Whether you find yourself in Paris or Singapore, the iconic red lanterns, intricate Paifangs and gilded decorations are a ubiquitous sight, each Chinatown offering its own unique charm.

As the Chinese New Year dawns upon us, we’ve curated a list of our top Chinatowns from around the globe that you absolutely must experience: 

The largest Chinatown in Australia, you’ll certainly want to explore the offerings in Sydney’s much-loved Chinatown. Deb from Sydney Chic told us what sets it apart from other Chinatowns: “Sydney’s Chinatown is unique in that it is close to the Sydney CBD, offering entertainment, shopping, restaurants and the stunning Chinese Garden of Friendship which boasts beautiful gardens and a wonderful tea room. 

“Market City, the heart of Chinatown, has a huge variety of retail stores and food outlets as well as an entertainment area. Paddy’s Market (below Market City) is popular with locals to buy their fresh produce and grab bargains ranging from clothing, tech, watches and more from the stallholders. 

“Visitors wishing to experience great shopping, Chinese culture and food should put Chinatown on the agenda for a great day out. It’s easy to get to from Circular Quay if you are visiting by cruise liner; just hop on the new Sydney Trams from Circular Quay to Chinatown. An Opal card for tap-on and tap-off is necessary and can be obtained at most newsagents or railway stations.” 

Canada’s biggest Chinatown in Vancouver is more than a century old. From historic architecture to exotic cuisine, this compelling Chinese district has something for everyone. “Vancouver’s Chinatown is steeped in rich history,” Rachel Bustin told us. “Magnificent buildings, alleyways, murals and Chinese artwork is in abundance telling stories of the past. 

“Its cultural history is very much appealing to locals as well as tourists. The beautiful Millennium Gate is at the entrance to Chinatown and is not to be missed as you go through. One thing I would recommend doing in Vancouver’s Chinatown is trying the food - you can find delicious authentic Chinese food in restaurants and cafes on Keefer Street.” 

The largest Chinatown in Europe, Paris’ Quartier Chinois offers a fantastic window into Chinese culture, complete with a Buddhist temple. Although Paris is actually home to three Chinatowns, Quartier Chinois is by far the most exquisite - even the McDonald’s here has been decked out in traditional Chinese flair. 

“Paris’ Chinatown is effortlessly unique; its sheer size makes for a labyrinth of East Asian culture, cuisine and camaraderie not comparable elsewhere on the European continent,” said Natalie from Discover Walks. “I am always quick to recommend a visit to the 13th arrondissement to anyone with an open itinerary. There is something to be said about the ways in which these oriental communities have been able to settle and coexist within French customs, while never losing sight of their own.”

Just south of Tokyo, you’ll find Japan’s second-largest city, Yokohama. A vibrant city teeming with culture, a visit to the country’s biggest Chinatown comes highly recommended. 

Peter from GoWithGuide told us what to expect, “Located south of Tokyo in the bustling port of Yokohama, Yokohama Chinatown is the largest Chinatown in Japan, and one of the largest in the world. A unique aspect of Yokohama Chinatown is its distinct architecture, which is visible in the elaborate Kanteibyo Temple and Masobyo Temple. The intricate and vibrant design of these Chinese temples stands out from the typical Japanese temples and shrines that most tourists see. 

“Visiting these temples gives you a sense of the cultural differences between Chinese and Japanese temples and local worship. These temples also make for a unique photography experience.” 

Peter also shared a recommendation on what to do in Yokohama’s Chinatown: “While in Chinatown, I would highly recommend trying the local street food. With well over two hundred shops in the area, it can be overwhelming. Don’t know where to start? Try xiaolongbao, a type of soup dumpling filled with pork, scallops and cabbage.”

With vibrant shopfronts, heavenly cuisine and a lively atmosphere, Outram’s Chinatown boasts a unique Chinatown experience that shows the bright and colourful side of Chinese culture. 

“Singapore’s Chinatown is a bustling hive of people (especially during Chinese New Year, when I visited),” Francesca from Gluten Free Horizons explained. “Its narrow streets are a vast departure from the sleek, modern aesthetic of the Marina Bay area of the city. Singapore is a truly international city and Chinatown is no different, with a mixture of Buddhist and Hindu temples lending variety to the area. The air is thick with the smell of incredible food, with traditional hawker fare available just steps away from the upmarket. 

“Visitors should definitely try and visit the Buddha Tooth Temple. It’s an incredibly ornate four-storey building quite unlike anything I’ve ever seen before, with walls lined with mini Budda statues and offerings. Just bear in mind that you need to have your shoulders and knees covered to come into the temple but don’t worry, they give out scarves to cover yourself appropriately if you’re in shorts and short sleeves (and let’s face it, in the heart of Singapore, you probably are!)”

As the largest Chinatown in the world, we couldn’t keep Bangkok’s infamous Chinatown off the list. But what makes it stand out? 

“Bangkok’s Chinatown is certainly one of the city’s most exciting neighbourhoods in town and for sure, one of the coolest Chinatowns in the world,” Martina and Jürgen from PlacesofJuma told us. “Visitors are fascinated by the hustle and bustle, the many shining lights and the impressive colours, the pretty Chinese temples and the huge range of delicious street food.

“At any time of the day, there is something interesting going on. During the day, you can shop until you drop at the winding market alleys and in the evening, Bangkok’s Chinatown turns into a huge street food market. A visit to Chinatown in Bangkok is a real highlight of every trip to South East Asia and should be high up on any travel bucket list.” 

Although there are actually five Chinatowns in the United Kingdom, one that you should look to visit is Birmingham’s. This Chinese Quarter is home to some fabulous architectural flourishes and serves up a range of cuisines alongside traditional Chinese fare, including Vietnamese, Japanese, Indian, Korean and Mediterranean. 

Erica from Nine to Three Thirty told us, “Birmingham’s Chinatown is in the vibrant, arty Southside area of Birmingham’s city centre and is only a few minutes’ walk from the main train station. With lots of Chinese architectural features, this area really stands out from the usual city centre buildings: there’s a stone pagoda and lots of Chinese-style roofs, as well as murals with a Chinese theme. The biggest event of the year here is, of course, Chinese New Year.”