Exploring Manilas Historic Chinatown

With the huge influx of Chinese immigrants all over the world

, many of the worlds cities boast their own Chinatown. As the name implies, a Chinatown is predominantly populated by Chinese immigrants and also showcases their traditions and cultures via restaurants, theatres and even street performers. The Chinatown in Manila is found in the Binondo region of the city and was created by immigrants that came to the Philippines even before the Spanish colonists in the 16th century.

According to historical sources, the story of Binondo runs back almost a thousand years and was once a busy trading hub filled with Chinese sea-farers. The colonial Spanish authorities converted this already busy area into an ethnic Chinese enclave in appreciation of their conversion to Catholicism. Binondo finds a special place in the history of Spanish missionaries because it was incidentally the birthplace of the first Filipino saint St. Lorenzo Ruiz.

Today Binondo, Manila is home to some of the best restaurants in the city. Although Chinese cuisine has gained popularity worldwide, this area is popular not only for its Chinese restaurants but for its wide variety of eateries. From traditional family-owned bakeries and quaint little cafes and plush modern gourmet restaurants, Chinatown has something to satisfy any palate.

Architecturally, this area has changed very little since the days of the Spanish colonialists. Notable landmarks include the Binondo Church and the San Lorenzo Ruiz Plaza. The Chinatown area is well-known among the locals as a place to find Chinese medicines and herbs. These quaint little medicine and antique shops lend the enclave its unique identity, even though much of the area is now a modern town.

Chinese festivals such as the New Year, the Hungry Ghost Festival and the Autumn Moon Festival are celebrated with much gusto by its inhabitants. Guests staying at Manila furnished apartments such as the Ascott The Residence Makati can embrace its magic as they would be living virtually on the doorstep of Manilas Chinatown.

by: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

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