Chinatown in Paris

Chinatown in Paris

The term “Chinatown in Paris” refers to the Chinatown in the 13th arrondissement of Paris. Whenever people talk about Chinatowns, the 13th arrondissement of Paris is inevitably the first that comes to mind. It is the earliest and largest Chinese enclave in Paris, primarily concentrated in a triangular area formed by the streets of Rue de Charenton, Avenue d’Ivry, and Boulevard Masséna. Approximately one hundred thousand Chinese people live in this area.

Unlike Chinatowns in cities like New York or San Francisco, this one lacks traditional archways or other iconic structures. Instead, it’s the dense concentration of Chinese shops that gives off a strong Chinese vibe. Lining the streets are Chinese restaurants, shops, supermarkets, and gift stores, so you won’t have to worry about not finding authentic Chinese food. In the 13th arrondissement, you don’t need to speak French or Mandarin—just Cantonese or Wenzhounese is enough to get by. This statement holds true, as most shop owners in the 13th arrondissement speak Mandarin with a Wenzhou or Cantonese accent, and some of the younger staff only speak Wenzhounese and not Mandarin at all. Nowadays, not only do ordinary French people love coming to the 13th arrondissement, but so do celebrities and dignitaries—thanks to the area’s diverse selection of Chinese restaurants, affordable prices, high quality, and warm, attentive service.

Walking through the 13th arrondissement, you’ll see black-haired, black-eyed Chinese people everywhere. The streets are lined with shops, and as you hear familiar accents and see familiar sights, and speak in the comforting tones of Cantonese or Teochew, you’ll experience what makes the 13th arrondissement unique and charming. It almost feels as if you’re not in Paris at all, but back in China.

Chinatown de Paris

Must-visit reason: Europe’s largest Chinatown

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/region where the attraction is located: France[France]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Île-de-France Region [Ile-de-France Region]

City where the attraction is located: Paris [Paris]