Decouvrez les merveilles du Quartier Chinois a Paris : 8 activites incontournables

Paris’s Chinese Quarter, nestling in the 13th arrondissement, is one of the best places to immerse yourself in Asian culture without leaving the City of Light. This vibrant and colourful area offers a multitude of activities to discover, whether you’re a lover of gastronomy, history or shopping. Here are eight activities not to be missed during your visit to Chinatown.

1. Taste the flavours of Asian cuisine

You don’t have to look far to enjoy this gourmet district. You’ll find a wide choice of restaurants serving delicious dishes typical of several Asian countries. Don’t hesitate to explore the backstreets to find confidential addresses where you can enjoy a good traditional tea, a tasty Vietnamese pho, or an original bubble tea.

Chinese specialities

As you wander through the streets of the Chinese Quarter, you’re bound to come across restaurants serving typical Chinese dishes, such as Peking duck, steamed ravioli or the unmissable Cantonese rice.

Japanese delights

If you’re more of a fan of Japanese cuisine, a number of restaurants offer sushi and maki to eat in or take away. Don’t forget to try ramen, the famous Japanese noodles served in a fragrant broth.

2. Browse the Asian grocery shops

As well as restaurants, Chinatown is also home to several Asian grocery shops where you can buy all sorts of exotic ingredients to concoct your own recipes. Whether you’re looking for sauces, spices, tea or original snacks, you’ll find what you’re looking for in these shops packed with flavours.

3. Attend a tea ceremony

For a unique experience in the heart of Chinatown, don’t miss the chance to attend a tea ceremony. This precious moment is an opportunity to learn more about this age-old beverage and its benefits while savouring different varieties of tea, accompanied by traditional pastries.

4. Stroll through the shopping streets

The Chinatown district is bursting with shops of all kinds: clothes, accessories, decorative items, souvenirs… Take the time to stroll through the lively, colourful streets and pick up some Asian treasures. You may also discover local craftspeople who will share their know-how and passion with you.

5. Visit the Imperial Buddhist Temple

Just a stone’s throw from the Maison Blanche metro station, the Imperial Buddhist Temple is a haven of peace amid the bustling streets of Chinatown. Take the opportunity to admire its traditional architecture and soak up the serenity that reigns here.

6. Take part in the Chinese New Year festivities

Every year, Chinatown celebrates Chinese New Year in style. On the programme: dragon and lion parades, traditional dances, food and craft stalls… It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Asian culture and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

7. Discover the street art

Chinatown is also a place where urban art flourishes. Be sure to admire the murals created by local and international artists, a true testament to the cultural richness and dynamism of this atypical district.

8. Attend an Asian cookery class

To end your visit to Chinatown on a gourmet note, why not take part in an Asian cookery class? Several workshops are available to help you learn how to prepare your favourite dishes, from the essential sushi to tasty dim sum. It’s a great way to get hands-on and impress your friends and family with authentic recipes.

Whether you’re looking for a change of scenery, culinary discoveries or cultural activities, Paris’s Chinese Quarter will win you over with its richness and unique atmosphere. So don’t hesitate any longer and set off to discover this nugget of Paris!