Chinatown

Los Angeles
Chinatown featuring heritage architecture
Spend an afternoon wandering around this historic ethnic neighborhood, which is home to diverse restaurants, a thriving art scene and quirky grocery stores.

Los Angeles’ Chinatown is an eclectic little neighborhood where you can shop for items ranging from herbal remedies to Asian art. In addition to traditional Chinese shops, this buzzing district has trendy galleries and stylish restaurants. Stock up on rare spices and inexpensive jewelry, savor a meal of dim sum or sip craft beers.

The development of Union Station in 1938 forced the city’s early Chinese community to relocate from its initial settlement. The Central Plaza, the neighborhood’s busy main square, was dedicated the same year and still forms the heart of Chinatown to this day. Be sure to check out this bustling square at night, when it is illuminated with neon pagoda lights and lanterns.

Across the street from Central Plaza, you’ll find Chung King Road, which has some of the city’s top art galleries. This once-rundown pedestrian passage is now regularly packed with trendsetters attending gallery openings, particularly on Saturday nights. Seek out more contemporary galleries along Gin Ling Way, on the west side of Broadway.

Stop for lunch at Philippe the Original, a cafeteria-style deli that claims to have invented the French dip sandwich. A neighborhood institution since 1908, this low-key restaurant is also known for its potent house mustard.

Take a look inside Taoist Thien Hau Temple, which is dedicated to the patron saint of sailors and fishermen. Look for a ceremonial drum and bell hanging next to the beautifully carved columns at the temple’s entrance. Inside, you’ll see granite panels carved with depictions of tigers and dragons.

Like other Chinatowns around the world, Los Angeles’ Chinatown is particularly festive during Chinese New Year. Typically beginning in late January, this month-long festival features fireworks displays, pageants, parades and other lively events. If you visit during this celebration, be sure to try nian gao (a steamed cake), which is traditionally eaten during the New Year.

Chinatown is bordered by Alameda Street, Bernard Street, Yale Street and Cesar Chavez Avenue. You’ll find plenty of open-air lots and enclosed garages for parking. Alternatively, ride the metro to Chinatown station.


Popular places to visit

Things to do


Top hotels in Chinatown

Four Points by Sheraton Los Angeles International Airport
Four Points by Sheraton Los Angeles International Airport
3.5 out of 5
9750 Airport Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
The price is €100 per night from 9 Apr to 10 Apr
€100
per night
9 Apr - 10 Apr
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Los Angeles. Enjoy free WiFi, a free airport shuttle, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
6/10 (5,436 reviews)
"Good."

Reviewed on 27 Mar 2024

Four Points by Sheraton Los Angeles International Airport
Freehand Los Angeles
Freehand Los Angeles
4 out of 5
416 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA
The price is €136 per night from 29 Apr to 30 Apr
€136
per night
29 Apr - 30 Apr
Stay at this 4-star hotel in Los Angeles. Enjoy free WiFi, 3 restaurants, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the bar and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,357 reviews)
"Location & Ambience!"

Reviewed on 25 Mar 2024

Freehand Los Angeles
Hotel Burbank
Hotel Burbank
3 out of 5
150 E Angeleno Ave, Burbank, CA
The price is €157 per night from 4 Apr to 5 Apr
€157
per night
4 Apr - 5 Apr
Stay at this hotel in Burbank. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast, and a free airport shuttle. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (3,664 reviews)
Nice and convienient
"The room was just basic. It was fine. Could use a deep cleaning. The carpet seemed musty and almost damp. The fan in the bathroom was very loud sounded like a vacuum cleaner. Bad lighting. But the bed was comfy and the staff was very sweet and helpful and accommodating."

Reviewed on 25 Mar 2024

Hotel Burbank
Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel
Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel
4 out of 5
6101 W Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
The price is €149 per night from 10 Apr to 11 Apr
€149
per night
10 Apr - 11 Apr
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Los Angeles. Enjoy breakfast, a free airport shuttle, and a health club. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
8/10 Very Good! (5,707 reviews)
"The bed was very comfortable, pillow top quality and the pillows as well. The shuttle from and to the airport was perfect, fast and available any time of the day."

Reviewed on 28 Mar 2024

Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel
Sheraton Universal Hotel
Sheraton Universal Hotel
4 out of 5
333 Universal Hollywood Drive, Universal City, CA
The price is €251 per night from 28 Apr to 29 Apr
€251
per night
28 Apr - 29 Apr
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Universal City. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast, and room service. Our guests praise the restaurant and the bar in our reviews. ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (3,340 reviews)
"Location next to Universal Studios is great"

Reviewed on 28 Mar 2024

Sheraton Universal Hotel
Loews Hollywood Hotel
Loews Hollywood Hotel
4 out of 5
1755 North Highland Avenue, Los Angeles, CA
The price is €270 per night from 16 Apr to 17 Apr
€270
per night
16 Apr - 17 Apr
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Los Angeles. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and breakfast. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (3,579 reviews)
Great stay in Hollywood
"Very comfortable and conveniently located hotel. Attached to Ovation. Walk of fame walking distance. Safe area. Close to target and Walgreens for quick snacks. Breakfast was good with variety. The employees were friendly and kind."

Reviewed on 27 Mar 2024

Loews Hollywood Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Chinatown

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