Honolulu Chinatown
Honolulu Chinatown is a historic and vibrant cultural district near downtown Honolulu, offering an immersive blend of Asian heritage, open-air markets, temples, and artistic flair. Known for its local produce, herbal medicine shops, street food, and colorful architecture, it provides a fascinating experience for visitors seeking to explore Oahu's multicultural past and present.
Honolulu Chinatown, Oahu
You don't have to love anything Oriental to get drawn to Honolulu's Chinatown. There are scores of other reasons why this place could become your favorite haunt. Mostly described as one of Oahu's most exciting and mysterious neighborhoods, Honolulu's Chinatown showcases a unique and colorful part of local history that makes it an interesting stop on anyone's itinerary. Some of the island's oldest buildings are located in this neighborhood, so do a self-guided walking tour to explore some of Honolulu's oldest buildings and historic landmarks.
The 25-acre marketplace has been home to Chinese families dating back to the 1800s. The place grew with waves of contract workers coming to Hawaii to work as laborers in the sugar plantations. With their earnings, some started putting up businesses, which grew to become what Honolulu's Chinatown is today.
Honolulu's Chinatown is quite unlike many other mainland cities in the sense that many of the buildings are relatively new. The whole place completely burned several times, and at one time after several restorations, it became a red-light district with a high crime rate, drug dealers and punks. Back then local residents and visitors practically avoided this area, especially after dark.
Today, the neighborhood has been cleaned up and is alive with a new generation of market-goers, diners and tourists. Home to many Chinese, Filipinos, Japanese, Koreans, Vietnamese, Hawaiians and people from other Southeast Asian countries, Honolulu's Chinatown is now one of the most vibrant cultural and economic centers of Hawaii. Many local residents come here to shop for fruits, vegetables and other groceries because the prices in Chinatown are lower than in other Oahu supermarkets.
You can have your hands full just by gazing at cutting-edge art, rummaging through piles of herbal concoctions or ginseng tonic, gawk at live eels, hanging pigs' heads, chicken feet and other exotic animals offered as delicacies. You may want to get a tattoo, or offer some prayers in a nearby Buddhist temple. And yes, you might end up loving anything Oriental after this visit.
Key Features of Honolulu Chinatown
- Historic marketplace district: One of the oldest Chinatowns in the U.S., with roots dating back to 19th-century plantation workers.
- Diverse cultural mix: Home to Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, Korean, Vietnamese, and Hawaiian communities with rich traditions and food.
- Open-air markets: Vendors sell exotic fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood, herbs, and traditional medicines at affordable prices.
- Temples and art galleries: Discover Buddhist temples, herbal shops, tattoo parlors, and contemporary local art spaces.
- Accessible downtown location: Just a short walk from Honolulu's business district and major bus routes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can I buy in Honolulu's Chinatown?
You'll find fresh produce, seafood, Chinese herbs, incense, tropical flowers, local crafts, souvenirs, and imported Asian goods.
Where is Honolulu Chinatown located?
Chinatown is located in downtown Honolulu, centered around N Hotel Street and Maunakea Street, near River Street and Nuuanu Avenue.
What are the typical hours?
Markets and shops generally open from 6 am to 6 pm, though some stores and restaurants may have later hours, especially on weekends.
Is Chinatown walkable and safe?
Yes, it's walkable and vibrant during the day. Like any urban area, it's best to stay aware of your surroundings, especially after dark.