5 must-sees to get to know Buenos Aires’ Chinatown

Delving into the heart of Buenos Aires means discovering a cultural gem that fuses Eastern magic with the vibrant rhythm of the city. Chinatown, located in Belgrano, is much more than just a geographical corner, it's a journey through time and space that began more than three decades ago. This story is woven with threads of immigration, dreams, and exquisite flavors that left an indelible mark on the urban landscape of the Argentine capital.

The must-see has its roots in the 1980s, when a wave of Asian immigrants, led mainly by families from Taiwan, arrived in these lands with the longing to build a new home. This melting pot soon expanded with the arrival of Chinese and Japanese families transforming the physiognomy of the Belgrano neighborhood. The opening of authentic Asian restaurants, quaint street stores, and the inauguration of one of the first Buddhist temples in the city marked the birth of this magical site.

Over the course of time, Chinatown has become a small treasure trove stretching for about 10 blocks between the following streets: Juramento, Olazábal, Av. Del Libertador, and Arribeños.

More than just a geographical delimitation, these streets bear witness to a combination of traditions and heritages that has endured for generations.

To walk these streets is to immerse yourself in a universe where exotic aromas, enchanting architecture, and cultural authenticity intertwine in a fascinating dance. Every corner tells a story, the food is the protagonist and the thousands of purchases that can be made are coveted by locals and tourists.

What to do in Chinatown? 

1) Photograph the arch of the main entrance

On Juramento and Arribeños street is the gateway to the fascinating and vibrant Chinatown: an arch 11 centimeters high and 8 centimeters long welcomes visitors. Inaugurated in 2009, it imposes traditional Chinese architecture and the highlights of the ornamental details evoking the rich heritage of that culture. Painted red and gold, the arch stands as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. Also, once you go cross it, the real world of infinite shops in the neighborhood appears.

2) Taste deliciousness at the new gastronomic hub Via Viva

2023 brought an exciting addition to the neighborhood: the pedestrianized Via Viva. This new space became an unmissable meeting point for lovers of gastronomy and entertainment. The modern pedestrian walkway, extending under the elevated train tracks, offers a unique experience: over 20 stores, most of them dedicated to gastronomy. The outdoor space functions as an open-air shopping mall, including food stalls of different nationalities. The baos coexist with Spanish tapas, hamburgers, sautéed vegetable, cafeterias, ramen, sushi, and spicy Asian food. Suitable for midday or dinner fans, alternatives abound in a cool and relaxed atmosphere.

Future plans include extending it to 2.8 miles, with high-end car dealerships and even nightclubs and bars to liven up the nightlife.

3) Visit Tzong Kuan Temple

A treasure trove of Eastern spirituality and culture. On the outside, it blends with its surroundings: it goes unnoticed on Montañeses street. But once you come in, you feel the peace and tranquility of a sacred temple. Before entering, visitors must take their shoes off as a sign of respect to the buddhas venerated inside. In addition, this Buddhist shrine is one of the first to emerge in the city, back in 1988. The reason for his birth? The wave of immigrants that came in the 1980s, led by Eastern families, mostly from Taiwan. Since then, its doors have remained open to anyone who wants to enter a world of respect.

4) Stroll through the markets in the area

They are plenty of stores to buy things in Chinatown. And variety, of course: decoration, gastronomy, bazaars, toys, clothes, jewelry, and endearing objects that have the particularity of being found only in this corner of the capital of Buenos Aires. Each store offers endless options of unique products that hark back to Asian and Argentinian culture. From imported things, such as sakes, juices and beers to Eastern sauces, rice, noodles, and an unusual number of spices. Anything that is needed, no matter how exotic, can be found in Chinatown. Touring supermarkets is the favorite activity of the day and visitors always get something unusual. 

5) Chinese New Year

It takes place every January and it has become one of the most expected events in the city. The streets are flooded with contagious energy and eye-catching costumes. Chinese culture is lived intensely and celebrated with dances, traditional music, and the most awaited moment: the dragon dance. Gastronomy stalls show their best version with a predominance of typical food. There are stages for different artists to work their magic, martial arts exhibitions, and stands where classic objects are sold. The cherry on the cake is the closing ceremony including fireworks. A real party.    

How to Get to Chinatown in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires' Chinatown, located in the Belgrano neighborhood, is accessible via various public transportation options. Below are the available alternatives:

Buses:

The following bus lines have stops near Chinatown:

Lines: 15, 29, 38, 42, 44, 55, 60, 63, 64, 65, 80, 107, 113, 114, 118, and 130.

Train:

The Mitre Railway offers a convenient option:

Mitre Line: Belgrano C Station.

Subway (Subte):

Although there isn’t a subway station in Chinatown, Line D is the closest:

Line D: Juramento Station. From there, it’s approximately a 7-block walk to Chinatown.

To plan your trip and get precise directions from your current location, you can use the Buenos Aires Interactive Map.

Please note that schedules and frequencies may vary, especially on weekends and holidays. It is recommended to check updated information before traveling.