Nestled between Leicester Square and Soho, Chinatown London is one of the most colorful and vibrant areas in the city. With its red lanterns, ornate gates, and the smell of freshly cooked dumplings in the air, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring central London.

Whether you’re craving authentic Chinese food, want to discover East Asian culture, or just love wandering through lively streets, Chinatown has something for everyone.

📍 Where is Chinatown London?

Chinatown is located in the heart of the West End, right between Shaftesbury Avenue, Gerrard Street, and Lisle Street- just a short walk from Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square Underground stations.

📍 Address: Gerrard Street, London W1D 6JE
🚇 Nearest Tube Stations: Leicester Square or Piccadilly Circus

🏮 A Bit of History

London’s Chinatown wasn’t always here.
The first Chinese community formed in the Limehouse area of East London in the late 19th century, near the docks.
After World War II, many Chinese immigrants opened restaurants and grocery shops in the West End, and the area around Gerrard Street gradually became the new hub of Chinese culture in London.

Today, Chinatown is home to dozens of Asian restaurants, bakeries, supermarkets, and specialty shops - celebrating not just Chinese heritage, but also influences from Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

🧧 What to See and Experience in Chinatown

🎐 1. The Chinatown Gate

At the entrance to Gerrard Street stands a stunning paifang (traditional Chinese gate), built in 2016.
It’s the largest Chinese gate in the UK and was designed and crafted by artisans from Beijing.
It’s the perfect photo spot and marks the symbolic heart of Chinatown.

🏮 2. Red Lantern Streets

Look up - you’ll see hundreds of red lanterns strung across the streets, creating one of London’s most photogenic backdrops.
They change seasonally, especially around Chinese New Year when new decorations are added.

🏵️ 3. Chinese New Year Celebrations

If you visit in late January or February, don’t miss London’s Chinese New Year festival - the largest outside Asia.
The celebrations include a parade through Shaftesbury Avenue, lion dances, stage performances in Trafalgar Square, and of course, incredible street food everywhere.

🕯️ 4. Chinese Medicine and Specialty Shops

Explore traditional shops offering herbal medicines, teas, and Asian beauty products.

• 🫖 Yuewa Oriental City Supermarket - A great place to explore Asian snacks and ingredients.

• 🌿 Everwell Chinese Medicine Centre - Offers acupuncture and herbal remedies.

🍜 Where to Eat in Chinatown

Food is the star attraction in Chinatown - and it’s not just Chinese! You’ll find dim sum, Korean BBQ, ramen, and Malaysian curries, all within a few blocks.

Here are some of the most popular spots:

🥟 1. Dumplings’ Legend

📍 15-16 Gerrard Street
Watch chefs make fresh xiao long bao (soup dumplings) in the window - they’re famous for a reason!

🦆 2. Four Seasons

📍 12 Gerrard Street
A London legend known for its roast duck, which some say is the best in the world. Arrive early - it’s always busy!

🍛 3. BaoziInn

📍 26 Newport Court
Trendy and colorful, serving Northern Chinese street food and spicy Sichuan noodles. Perfect for a casual meal.

🍲 4. Shibuya Soho

📍 110 Shaftesbury Avenue
A cozy spot for Japanese ramen, sushi, and matcha desserts - great for those who want a break from Chinese flavors.

🍰 5. Chinatown Bakery

📍 7 Newport Place
Don’t miss their custard buns, bubble waffles, and the iconic Taiyaki (fish-shaped cake) filled with red bean or Nutella.

💡 Tip: Try to visit on a weekday afternoon for shorter queues.

🛍️ Shopping in Chinatown

Chinatown is full of unique finds - from Asian snacks and bubble tea to souvenirs and lucky charms.

• 🧧 SeeWoo Supermarket - The oldest Chinese supermarket in London.

• 🪭 Wanstead Oriental Gift Shop - Great for souvenirs like paper fans, chopsticks, and calligraphy sets.

• 🧋 Biju Bubble Tea Room - Trendy spot for bubble tea lovers.

🥠 Fun Facts about Chinatown

• There are over 80 restaurants packed into just a few streets.

• The red and gold colors symbolize good fortune and happiness.

• Gerrard Street used to be home to literary figures like John Dryden and John Milton before becoming the heart of Chinese London.

• Many menus display dishes in both English and Chinese, reflecting London’s rich multicultural identity.

📸 Best Photo Spots

• The main gate on Gerrard Street

• The lanterns at night (especially around Chinese New Year)

• The windows of Chinatown Bakery

• The street art and murals tucked in small alleys

🍵 Insider Tips for Visiting Chinatown

✅ Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or evening when the lanterns are lit.
🚶‍♀️ How Long to Spend: 1-2 hours (or longer if you’re eating out).
💳 Payment: Most places accept cards, but some bakeries are cash-only.
📸 Don’t Miss: Bubble waffles, roast duck, and the ornate entrance gate.

🗺️ Location: Chinatown London

👉 View Chinatown London on Google Maps

🏮 Final Thoughts

Visiting Chinatown is like stepping into another world - full of colors, flavors, and energy.
It’s one of the best places in London to experience authentic Asian culture, enjoy incredible food, and capture amazing photos.

Whether you’re here for a quick meal or to celebrate Chinese New Year, Chinatown London will surprise you with its rich traditions and modern London twist. 🥢✨