Chinese travel guide London
London is a treasure trove for travelers, brimming with historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and culinary diversity. For those with a penchant for Chinese culture or for travelers from China seeking familiar comforts abroad, London offers a unique slice of the East within its eclectic neighborhoods. From bustling Chinatown to hidden gems, Chinese travel enthusiasts can find plenty to explore and experience. Here’s a guide to discovering Chinese London, with recommendations for food, cultural sites, shopping, and more.
1. Chinatown: The Heart of Chinese London
Nestled in the heart of the West End, London’s Chinatown is the obvious starting point for any Chinese cultural experience. Centered around Gerrard Street, Chinatown is a lively area lined with red lanterns, authentic restaurants, bakeries, and shops.
Must-Visit Spots in Chinatown
- Four Seasons Restaurant: Famous for its succulent roast duck, this restaurant is a staple for locals and tourists alike. The crispy skin and tender meat make it a must-try for anyone craving traditional Cantonese roast meats.
- Golden Gate Cake Shop: For those with a sweet tooth, Golden Gate offers Hong Kong-style egg tarts, pineapple buns, and other delightful pastries. The flavors bring a nostalgic taste of Hong Kong street food right to London.
- SeeWoo Supermarket: If you’re in the mood to shop, SeeWoo is one of the largest Chinese supermarkets in the area. From imported sauces to fresh produce and snacks, this supermarket is a haven for Chinese and Asian grocery shopping.
2. The British Museum: Chinese Art and Antiquities
A trip to London wouldn’t be complete without visiting the world-renowned British Museum. Home to one of the most extensive collections of Chinese art and artifacts, this museum offers a fascinating look into Chinese history and craftsmanship. Highlights of the Chinese collection include ancient bronze ware, ceramics from various dynasties, and intricately designed jade pieces.
Must-See Chinese Artifacts
- The Admonitions Scroll: This scroll is a famous Chinese painting attributed to the ancient artist Gu Kaizhi, known for its exquisite brushwork and historical significance.
- Ming Dynasty Ceramics: The British Museum houses some of the most stunning ceramics from the Ming Dynasty, providing insight into the beauty and complexity of Chinese porcelain.
Exploring these artifacts offers a unique way to connect with Chinese heritage and understand the historical ties between the East and West.
3. Chinese Gardens in Kew: A Tranquil Escape
Kew Gardens, one of London’s most serene attractions, is home to a Chinese-inspired garden. Designed to reflect traditional Chinese landscape art, the area features pagodas, bamboo groves, and small water bodies. The Great Pagoda, built in 1762, is a landmark at Kew Gardens and a symbol of British admiration for Chinese architecture and style.
Things to Do in Kew’s Chinese Gardens
- Climb the Pagoda: The Great Pagoda offers a climb to the top, rewarding visitors with panoramic views of the gardens and the London skyline. The pagoda’s design is inspired by traditional Chinese architecture, which gives a feel of traveling back in time.
- Stroll Through the Bamboo Garden: Surrounding the pagoda is a lush bamboo garden, perfect for a peaceful walk and an opportunity to experience a calm, Eastern-inspired landscape in the midst of London.
4. Dim Sum Delights: A Culinary Journey
Dim sum is a culinary staple of Chinese cuisine, and London has no shortage of top-notch dim sum restaurants. Ranging from high-end to more affordable options, here are a few must-visit spots for an authentic dim sum experience.
Best Dim Sum Spots in London
- Yauatcha Soho: Known for its chic interior and unique fusion of flavors, Yauatcha serves both traditional and contemporary dim sum. Try their baked venison puff or scallop shui mai for an innovative twist.
- Dumplings’ Legend: Located in Chinatown, Dumplings’ Legend is famous for its xiao long bao, or soup dumplings. The dumplings burst with flavor and are an absolute treat for any dim sum lover.
- Royal China Club: For a more upscale experience, head to the Royal China Club on Baker Street. Their dim sum menu is extensive, and their char siu bao (BBQ pork buns) and har gow (shrimp dumplings) are standouts.
Dim sum dining in London is perfect for travelers who want to indulge in authentic flavors and learn more about Cantonese cuisine.
5. Chinese Temples and Cultural Centers
For travelers interested in exploring Chinese spirituality, London is home to a few Buddhist temples and cultural centers that offer a peaceful retreat. These temples provide meditation classes, cultural festivals, and ceremonies.
Key Temples to Visit
- Fo Guang Shan Temple: Located in central London, Fo Guang Shan is a welcoming space where visitors can learn about Chinese Buddhism. The temple hosts events, meditation sessions, and Dharma classes in both English and Mandarin.
- London Buddhist Vihara: While not strictly a Chinese temple, this Buddhist center in Chiswick is popular among London’s Chinese Buddhist community. It is a serene space where visitors can participate in meditation practices and Buddhist teachings.
These temples offer a chance for reflection and insight into the spiritual side of Chinese culture, with English-speaking guides often available.
6. Shopping for Chinese Souvenirs
For travelers looking to bring home a piece of Chinese London, several shops and markets around the city offer souvenirs, traditional Chinese arts and crafts, and imported goods. In addition to Chinatown, head to the Camden Market and Covent Garden for unique Chinese-inspired products and handmade goods.
Recommended Shops
- Wan Ling Tea House: Located in Covent Garden, this tea house offers a curated selection of high-quality Chinese teas, including Pu-erh, oolong, and jasmine tea. The staff are knowledgeable and can guide you in selecting the perfect tea to take home.
- China Exchange: This cultural organization and gallery often host pop-up shops featuring Chinese arts and crafts, along with exhibitions that showcase contemporary Chinese artists. It’s a great spot for finding unique and culturally rich souvenirs.
7. Chinese Festivals and Events
London’s multicultural environment makes it a vibrant place to celebrate Chinese holidays and festivals. If you’re visiting during the right time of year, don’t miss out on these major celebrations.
Key Festivals
- Chinese New Year in Trafalgar Square: London hosts one of the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside of Asia. The event is a colorful spectacle of dragon dances, martial arts performances, and live music. Vendors line the streets with traditional Chinese food and decorative items.
- Mid-Autumn Festival: Many Chinese communities in London come together to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. Keep an eye out for mooncake sampling events and lantern displays in Chinatown and local Chinese cultural centers.
Participating in these celebrations allows travelers to immerse themselves in the joyous traditions of Chinese culture, right in the heart of London.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Chinese London
London’s Chinese community has made significant cultural contributions, and exploring these can deepen one’s appreciation for both the Chinese heritage and the city’s vibrant multiculturalism. Whether you’re savoring dim sum, exploring historic pagodas, or browsing through authentic Chinese markets, London offers a unique opportunity to experience a blend of East and West.
So, next time you find yourself wandering the streets of London, make sure to dive into the city’s Chinese culture. It’s an unforgettable way to discover a different side of London, full of flavors, stories, and traditions that bridge continents and centuries.
