top of page
Search

Exploring Binondo, Manila: The oldest Chinatown in Philippines

Updated: Mar 12

The Binondo district in Manila Philippines is known as the oldest Chinatown in the country. Thanks to that the destination is full gastronomical, cultural, and historical adventures that you can enjoy the full of life experience of Binondo from its malls, lively streets, famous architectures, and a must go dining establishments around the vicinity. That is why tourist never gets bored visiting the Chinatown in Manila since it will be very worth it experience. You can bring your friends along with your travel here in Binondo but if you want to enjoy it for your own amusement then you are free to do so. 


Photo: @archiechang



Want to visit Binondo in your free time? Check out this fun activities you can do in Manila’s Chinatown!


Binondo Foodtrip – Before you explore the whole Chinatown you must have the energy to walk a lot. That’s why upon entering Binondo you should eat first, a visit here is not complete without tasting the local dishes. You shouldn’t worry about finding a place to eat since there are various selections of Chinese restaurants on every street in Binondo.


Photo: Aldous Vince Cabildo

Top picks where you can eat in Binondo: 

  • Cafe Mezzanine

  • New Po Heng Lumpia House

  • Wai Ying Fast Food

  • LGA fastfood

  • Shanghai Fried Siopao  



Visit Binondo Church- The Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo and Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish can also be known as Binondo Church. It is full of history since it was founded way back in 1596 which is also why it belongs to the list of oldest churches here in the Philippines. Visiting Binondo church is a must to do activity when you’re in the area. Fun fact the very first Filipino Saint, San Lorenzo Ruiz served here as a sacristan. 



Buy special pasalubong for your friends and family- You should buy the special Chinese Snacks that Binondo has to offer and bring them back to your home so others can enjoy them. You shouldn’t forget to buy the most known Chinese gift snacks when you are in Binondo which are Hopia and Tikoy. Down below is the list of shops where you can buy “pasalubong”.



Photo: A not so popular kid

Pasalubong Shops to check:

  • Lord’s Stows Bakery 

  • Salazar Bakery

  • Eng Bee Tin

  • Ho-land Hopia



Binondo is a small town full of history, culture, foods, and venturing but if you have more time to spare there are other tourist sites you can explore near Binondo. Such as the “Walled City of Intramuros”, Manila Cathedral, Plaza San Luis, Fort Santiago, Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant, and many more. The place is open for everybody as you can enter the place any time you want without a limit. The direction to go there is easy to remember especially with our technological devices today. Have a safe trip!


9 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page