Chinatown (Barrio Chino), Lima - a person walking down a street
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Chinatown Lima

4.6
·491k reviews·Lima, Peru

Discover Lima's vibrant Chinatown, a historic hub blending Chinese and Peruvian cultures with delicious Chifa cuisine and lively streets.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.

CrowdLow
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Chinatown (Barrio Chino), Lima - a person walking down a street

Chinatown Lima

Best Time

Weekday Afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Lima's vibrant Chinatown, a historic hub blending Chinese and Peruvian cultures with delicious Chifa cuisine and lively streets.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Experience the unique fusion of Chinese and Peruvian flavors in Lima's historic Chinatown!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Taste the Chifa Fusion

Don't leave without trying Chifa! Lomo Saltado is a classic Peruvian-Chinese dish you won't want to miss.

🛍️ Explore Snack Shops

Indulge in authentic Chinese snacks. Mochi and other treats are popular choices for a quick, delicious bite.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chifa Cuisine

Chifa Cuisine

Experience the unique fusion of Chinese and Peruvian flavors in dishes like Lomo Saltado. A must-try culinary experience!

Authentic Chinese Snacks

Authentic Chinese Snacks

Discover a wide array of traditional Chinese snacks, from sweet mochi to savory treats. Perfect for a quick bite!

Historic Streets

Historic Streets

Wander through streets steeped in over 150 years of history, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and unique cultural blend.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Flavors of Chifa

Chinatown Lima is a culinary adventure, famous for 'Chifa' – a unique fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cuisine. Don't miss trying dishes like Lomo Saltado, a testament to this delicious blend. Instagram+1

Navigating the Vibrant Streets

While Chinatown Lima is a compact area, it's bustling and can feel crowded. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring the lively streets. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, vibrant street life.
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#remzwashere #yapalations #korean #korea #chinatown #hanki #london #hidden #hiddengem #tteokbokki #restaurant #koreanfood #food
@wheresremzgone
145.2K likes • 1.1M views

🎯 Taste the Chifa Fusion

Don't leave without trying Chifa! Lomo Saltado is a classic Peruvian-Chinese dish you won't want to miss. Instagram+1

🛍️ Explore Snack Shops

Indulge in authentic Chinese snacks. Mochi and other treats are popular choices for a quick, delicious bite. TikTokInstagram

Chinatown 📍Chicago, Illinois Spent the day in Chinatown and got way more than we planned 😅 So many cute stores—we couldn’t resist! Picked up a bunch of random (but adorable stuffs). Dessert spots were impossible to choose from 🍡🧁 Everything looked too good to pass up. Also found the cutest little shop that sells Lafufus and all kinds of accessories for them 🥹💕 Literally obsessed. Chinatown neve...
@chicagoland_explorer
73.1K likes • 631.8K views
finally got my Chinese snack cravings fixed in Chinatown, Lima! I have to say, the snacks here are pretty authentic! saw so many of my favourite Chinese snacks here 😋 this is one of the only two Chinatowns in South America, the other being in Buenos Aires! Also known as Calle Capón, Chinatown is located near the Plaza Mayor of Lima in Central Lima, you can walk over from there. It is very busy an...
pearltammm
751 likes • 25.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Plaza Mayor

Chinatown is conveniently located near Plaza Mayor, making it an easy walk to start your exploration. Instagram

💰 Be Mindful of Pickpockets

While generally safe, it's a busy area. Keep your valuables secure, especially in crowded spots. Reddit

Explorando el Chinatown de Lima, con más de 150 años de historia, y probando el delicioso Chifa 🥢 🥡una fusión de la cocina china con los sabores peruanos. 😋 Mil gracias al restaurante @chifasanjoylao por la espectacular comida y a @carlosflores74 @danielsomething123 por el tour en el barrio chino . 🙌🏮 🏙️
nico.travesias
3.7K likes • 98.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Taste the Chifa Fusion

Don't leave without trying Chifa! Lomo Saltado is a classic Peruvian-Chinese dish you won't want to miss. Instagram+1

🛍️ Explore Snack Shops

Indulge in authentic Chinese snacks. Mochi and other treats are popular choices for a quick, delicious bite. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Plaza Mayor

Chinatown is conveniently located near Plaza Mayor, making it an easy walk to start your exploration. Instagram

💰 Be Mindful of Pickpockets

While generally safe, it's a busy area. Keep your valuables secure, especially in crowded spots. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Chinatown Lima for its unique Chifa cuisine, a delicious fusion of Chinese and Peruvian flavors, and the vibrant atmosphere of its historic streets. While some find the area touristy and the food quality can vary, the authentic snack shops and cultural immersion are consistently highlighted as positive aspects.

What People Like

Unique Chifa cuisine
Authentic Chinese snacks
Vibrant atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be touristy
Food quality varies

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Chinatown Lima, also known as Calle Capón, is easily accessible on foot from the Plaza Mayor in Central Lima. It's a short and straightforward walk, making it a convenient addition to your city center exploration. Instagram

Yes, the main area of Chinatown Lima is quite compact and very walkable. You can explore its main street and surrounding alleys on foot to discover its shops and eateries. Instagram

From Miraflores, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service directly to Chinatown Lima. Alternatively, you can use public transport by taking a bus towards the city center and then walking or taking a short taxi ride to Calle Capón.

Parking in the immediate vicinity of Chinatown Lima can be challenging due to its central location and busy nature. It's often more convenient to use ride-sharing services or public transport, or to park in a secure lot near Plaza Mayor and walk over. Reddit

Yes, you can use public transport. Buses heading towards the city center will get you close to the Plaza Mayor area, from where Chinatown is a short walk away. Check local bus routes for the most direct options.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to enter Chinatown Lima. It's a public neighborhood, and you can freely explore its streets and shops. Instagram

Chinatown Lima is generally open throughout the day, with shops and restaurants operating during typical business hours. Many establishments stay open into the evening, especially on weekends. It's best to check specific restaurant or shop hours if you have a particular place in mind.

There are no general entrance fees for the neighborhood itself. Individual shops or restaurants will have their own pricing for goods and food. Instagram

Absolutely! Chinatown Lima is a fantastic destination for a day trip, offering a unique cultural experience, delicious food, and interesting shops. You can easily spend several hours exploring. Instagram+1

To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for weekday afternoons. Weekend evenings tend to be the busiest as locals and tourists alike come out to enjoy the atmosphere and food. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Chifa is a unique culinary fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cuisines, a staple in Lima's Chinatown. Must-try dishes include Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries), Arroz Chaufa (Chinese-Peruvian fried rice), and various noodle dishes. Instagram+1

You'll find numerous shops selling a wide variety of authentic Chinese snacks throughout Chinatown Lima. Look for places offering mochi, dried fruits, candies, and other traditional treats. TikTokInstagram

Yes, many Chifa restaurants offer vegetarian options. Dishes like vegetable fried rice (Arroz Chaufa Vegetariano) or vegetable stir-fries are commonly available. It's always a good idea to ask your server about vegetarian choices. TikTok

While specific recommendations can vary, restaurants like San Joy Lao are often praised for their authentic Chifa experience. Exploring the main street will reveal many family-run establishments offering delicious food. Instagram

Yes, Chinatown Lima offers many budget-friendly dining options, especially if you opt for local eateries and snack shops. You can enjoy a delicious and filling meal without breaking the bank. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant red lanterns, traditional Chinese architecture, bustling street scenes, and the colorful displays of goods in shops. The unique blend of cultures offers many picturesque moments. Instagram+1

It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially shopkeepers or vendors. Street scenes and general ambiance shots are usually fine. Reddit

Late afternoon or early evening can be ideal, as the golden hour light can enhance the colors of the lanterns and buildings. Weekends offer more vibrant street life for candid shots. Instagram

Look for the iconic Chinese archway at the entrance of the neighborhood, the colorful shop signs, and the general streetscape that showcases the unique cultural fusion. Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for street photography. A wide-angle lens can capture the bustling streets, and a prime lens can be useful for low-light shots in restaurants. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chinatown Lima offers a fun and engaging experience for families. The vibrant atmosphere and colorful sights can captivate children, and the unique flavors of Chifa cuisine might even encourage picky eaters to try something new. Instagram

Look for restaurants with a variety of noodle and rice dishes, which are often kid-friendly. Exploring the snack shops can also be a highlight, offering sweet treats that kids will love. Remember to keep an eye on children in crowded areas and ensure they have comfortable shoes for walking. TikTokInstagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Chinatown Lima is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers. The neighborhood is known for its affordable dining options, particularly the local Chifa restaurants and snack vendors. TikTok

You can enjoy a hearty and delicious meal without spending a lot. Exploring the streets and soaking in the atmosphere is free, making it a great way to experience local culture on a budget. Be sure to compare prices at different eateries to find the best deals. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Culinary Heart: Chifa

Chinatown Lima is renowned for its Chifa cuisine, a culinary phenomenon born from the fusion of Chinese ingredients and techniques with Peruvian flavors. This unique gastronomic tradition has been developing for over a century, creating a distinct and beloved part of Peruvian culture. Instagram+1

When visiting, be sure to try iconic dishes like Lomo Saltado, a savory stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and french fries, often served with rice. Another popular choice is Arroz Chaufa, a flavorful fried rice that incorporates Peruvian ingredients. The variety of noodle dishes and seafood preparations also showcases the depth of Chifa's influence. Instagram

Beyond the main dishes, exploring the Chinese snack shops is a delightful experience. You can find everything from sweet mochi and pastries to savory treats, offering a perfect way to sample a range of flavors and textures. TikTokInstagram

A Glimpse into History and Culture

Chinatown Lima, also known as Calle Capón, boasts a history spanning over 150 years, making it one of the oldest and most significant Chinatowns in South America. Instagram+1 It serves as a vibrant hub for the Chinese Peruvian community, preserving cultural traditions while embracing its Peruvian home.

The architecture and streetscape reflect this rich history, with traditional Chinese elements blending seamlessly with the urban environment of Lima. Walking through the neighborhood, you'll encounter colorful lanterns, distinctive signage, and a lively atmosphere that speaks to its enduring cultural significance. Instagram

While the area is relatively compact, its cultural impact is immense. It's a testament to the successful integration and contribution of the Chinese diaspora to Peruvian society, offering visitors a unique cultural immersion. Instagram

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