One of the Zones that you must visit at least once in your life is Chinatown in Mexico City. Through its decoration, annual festivities and food you can learn more about Chinese culture.
The Zone is small, but always has something to offer. jalas?
History
Approximately 100 years ago, many families of Chinese origin began to settle in what is now Mexico City. Between 1930 and 1940 they opened several businesses, including laundries and coffee shops.
However, Chinatown remained established until the 1970s. Throughout its history, the site has changed a lot. In 2006, much of the space was remodeled and for 2018, a second remodel was completed.
In addition to commercial establishments and restaurants, in the neighborhood you can see three arches. The first is located on Dolores Street, a few steps from Juárez Avenue; the second is on Ayuntamiento Street and the third in Plaza Santos Degollado.
You’ll even find some giant letters that refer to Mexico City, have you seen them?
Chinese food and cultural items
One of the main attractions of Chinatown is the food. Although the Zone is very small, it has very interesting options. We have, for example, the Cafeteria Buda (Dolores 24C), whose specialty is steamed bread. It comes in different flavors such as blackberry, strawberries with cream, cajeta, pineapple, kiwi, peach and Taro, among others.
You can also visit Hong King, a restaurant offering Cantonese food. There are several eating establishments in the Zone, including a buffet.
Of course you will also find stores where they sell various items, such as Shun Li, a place where they offer everything from clothing to tea sets. If you’re looking for lucky charms, fortune cookies or lamps, Chinatown is the place to go.
Parties
No matter what day it is, you will always find something interesting in Chinatown; however, the best time to visit is in late January and early February, when the Chinese New Year is celebrated.
This festivity, also known as Primavera Festival, is an event of great relevance in which a new beginning is sought. According to the Chinese Embassy in Mexico, Chinese New Year symbolizes reunion and happiness.
Every year the house is thrown out of the window in this neighborhood. In addition to decorating every corner, you will find events and activities typical of Chinese culture.
how to get to Chinatown in CDMX?
Getting to CDMX’s Chinatown is very easy. It is located on Dolores Street, Centro Histórico, a few steps from the Palacio de Bellas Artes. You can get there by Metro San Juan de Letran or Juarez and from there walk a bit.
If you arrive from the side of the Palacio de Bellas Artes, you will distinguish the neighborhood by the enormous arch that can be seen from Juárez Avenue.