Chinatown a must-see tourist spot in Japan
There are several famous Chinatowns in Japan, each with its own history and culture. Chinatowns are places full of exotic atmosphere and are loved by many tourists and locals alike.
In this article, we will introduce the three major Chinatowns: Yokohama Chinatown, Kobe Nankinmachi, and Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown in detail.
1. Yokohama Chinatown
Yokohama Chinatown is the largest Chinatown in Japan and is located in Naka Ward, Yokohama City. Its history dates back to the opening of the Yokohama Port in 1859. At that time, many Chinese immigrants moved to Yokohama, and Chinatown gradually formed.
Tourist attractions
- Kuandi Temple: The Kuandi Temple is a temple dedicated to Guan Yu, the hero of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, and is a symbol of Yokohama Chinatown. It features beautiful architecture and gorgeous decorations, and attracts many worshippers.
- Chinese restaurants: There are about 500 Chinese restaurants in Yokohama Chinatown, where you can enjoy a variety of cuisines, including Beijing cuisine, Cantonese cuisine, and Shanghai cuisine. Dim sum and Chinese buns are especially popular.
Events
Yokohama Chinatown celebrates traditional Chinese festivals such as the Lunar New Year (Spring Festival) and the Mid-Autumn Festival every year. Many tourists visit the area for spectacular events such as dragon and lion dances and fireworks.
2. Kobe Nankinmachi
Kobe Nankinmachi is a Chinatown located in Chuo Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture. After the opening of Kobe Port in 1868, many Chinese people immigrated to Kobe and Nankinmachi was formed.
Tourist attractions
- Chang'an Gate: Chang'an Gate is a gate located at the entrance to Nankinmachi, and incorporates traditional Chinese architectural styles. Once you pass through the gate, you will be greeted by the exotic atmosphere of Nankinmachi.
- Chinese restaurants: There are many Chinese restaurants in Kobe Nankinmachi, mainly serving Cantonese cuisine. Chinese cuisine using Kobe beef and dim sum are particularly popular.
Events
In Nankinmachi, traditional Chinese events such as the Chinese New Year Festival and the Nankinmachi Lantern Festival are held. Beautiful lanterns and parades decorate the town, and many tourists can enjoy them.
3. Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown
Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown is located in Nagasaki City and began when many Chinese people migrated to Nagasaki for trade during the Edo period. It is known as one of the three largest Chinatowns in Japan.
Tourist attractions
- Shinchi Chinatown: Shinchi Chinatown is an area that stretches from east to west to north to south, and is lined with many Chinese restaurants and general stores. In particular, champon and sara udon are popular specialty dishes.
- Confucius Temple: Confucius Temple is a temple dedicated to Confucius, the founder of Confucianism, and features beautiful Chinese-style architecture. Inside the temple, there are materials and exhibits related to Confucius, conveying Chinese culture to visitors.
Events
Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown holds the Nagasaki Lantern Festival every year. The entire town is decorated with beautiful lanterns, and many tourists can enjoy the fantastic atmosphere.
4. The charm and enjoyment of Chinatown
- Gourmet experience: The biggest attraction of Chinatown is, of course, the gourmet food. In Chinatowns around the country, you can enjoy cuisine that makes the most of the characteristics of each region. You can enjoy eating your way around and enjoy a wide variety of Chinese cuisine, including dim sum, steamed buns, and spring rolls.
- Shopping: Chinatown is lined with many stores selling groceries, miscellaneous goods, and souvenirs. You can find traditional Chinese crafts, tea, herbal medicine, and other products that can only be found here.
- Cultural Experience: Chinatown hosts events and workshops where you can experience traditional Chinese culture. You can enjoy a variety of cultural experiences, such as calligraphy, tai chi, and lion dance performances.
Each Chinatown in Japan has its own unique history and culture, offering a variety of attractions to visitors. Yokohama Chinatown, Kobe Nankinmachi, and Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown are all places where you can enjoy gourmet food, shopping, and cultural experiences. Be sure to visit one of Japan's Chinatowns on your next holiday.
