There is a Chinatown in just about every major city in the world and Sydney is no exception. Sydney’s Chinatown is arguably the most vibrant among all Chinatowns, and it boasts of a growing, dynamic marketplace. If you’re looking for a place to eat out, shop, or just hang out, exploring this locale is a great addition to your Sydney itinerary.
Your Sydney accommodation in Double Bay is a stone’s throw away from Chinatown. Here’s everything you can find in this cultural melting pot.
Things to do in Sydney’s Chinatown
The highlight of exploring Sydney’s Chinatown is the exciting mix of sights, sounds, and smells that are uniquely Asian. Many local Sydneysiders and tourists come to taste some of the most authentic dishes from this side of Australia. Young people come here to hang out at the unique shops, most of which combine modern aesthetics with traditional Chinese culture.
The pedestrian thoroughfare indeed has a lot to offer, including different shops from all over the country. What’s more is that it’s a 10-minute stroll from Central Station, making it easy to access from your Sydney accommodation!
Eat and drink authentic Asian fare.
Anywhere in the world, Chinatowns are a no-brainer choice for amazing food experiences. Sumptuous delights await people who want a taste of authentic Asian.
In Sydney’s Chinatown, you can find restaurants around Dixon Street offering authentic fare. Taste the flavours of the best mainland Chinese cuisine right near the Chinatown Gate. Walk a bit further and you can find tea houses, dim sum stores, and more.
Chinese gastronomic delights are not the only ones available for visitors. You can go to Pitt and Goulburn Streets and find other East Asian fare here. Mouth-watering Thai, Korean, and Malaysian dishes are here to satisfy your cravings.
Not sure what to eat? You’ll find something that takes your fancy.
Hit Sussex Street for delicious seafood. Go around Dixon for Korean fare like spicy kimchi, samgyeopsal (grilled meat), and tasty milk tea. Walk further and find an izakaya deep into Dixon and Quay Street.
Do a little retail therapy in Chinatown’s concept shops.
Visiting Chinatown from your Sydney accommodation also means finding stuff to buy. Whatever you’re looking for – or not looking for – you will likely find some inexpensive items for your daily dose of retail therapy. There are small concept shops around the area, as well as big chain stores for a more comprehensive range of options.
For starters, there are cute as a button stationery stores that offer more than pens. Many have their windows full of stuffed animals and cute cartoon characters. If you have kids or you’re a kid at heart, this is the place for you.
You can find toys and merch of famous Asian cartoon characters like Hello Kitty and Pikachu. There are also lunch boxes, kiddie socks, and even phone cases. There’s also a cute photo booth for you to immortalise your visit.
Those who love Asian media, exploring Sydney’s Chinatown is a must! If you love anime, many shops offer authentic Blu-rays and music CDs. Korean media is also available in different local speciality stores.
Most of the films sold here have English subtitles, so any Aussie or non-Asian language speaker can enjoy them too. The array of movies on sale is impressive, ranging from old kung fu flicks to modern K-drama. For superfans of K-pop and J-pop stars, you’ll also find a poster or two of your favourite idols here.
If you have the budget and are up for it, Chinatown is also a good place to find jewellery, gadgets, and cosmetics.
Take home some exotic Asian snacks.
For those who are looking for other souvenirs, there are other stalls available in Chinatown. You can buy snacks in bulk and take them back to your Double Bay Sydney accommodation. Some places to visit in Chinatown include the local speciality grocers that have Asian snacks on offer.
Start in Paddy’s Market and find dried fruit preserves that you can enjoy during your trip. Find a ton of exotic or tropical fruits on sale too. You can find candied lemon peels, dried oranges, dried candied persimmons, and more. There are also foodstuffs like dates, lychees, and even exotic nuts. Some shops carry Japanese cooking ingredients that are hard to find elsewhere.
If you have an extra hour, visit the stores located in the upper floor of Paddy’s Market. You’ll see a range of unique shops with lots of unusual ingredients you can take home.
Enjoy some culture at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre.
While you’re there, one great place to visit is Sydney’s Capitol Theatre. When you’re out and about, explore the edge of the Darling Harbour, which is within walking distance of Chinatown. This famous theatre has plays, ballet, musicals, and even concerts.
It’s a great way to spend the night out, especially with the bars around it. The multifaceted programs are also available for people who want to see something else. What makes Sydney’s Capitol Theatre unique, however, is its homage to the Asian heritage. The theatre has acts from all over the world, including cultural heritage plays from different parts of Asia. They also offer shows from performing arts companies and much more.
Chinatown’s Night Market is a must visit.
One of the best places that you can visit when exploring Sydney Chinatown is the Friday night market, which brings the entire area alive. From 4 PM onwards, you’ll see a gaggle of people gathering to buy from the stalls – be it food, drinks, or souvenirs.
If you’re looking to lose a few hours, this is the way to do it. Find cheap knick-knacks, snacks, and unique dessert combinations. The hustle and bustle add to the experience, much like an Asian night market.
While you’re there, you should also visit the Golden Water Mouth sculpture in Sussex Street. The sculpture uses a eucalyptus tree trunk dipped in gold, trickling streams of water. It’s a symbol of good luck and fortune to the locals and a great place to meetup.
Exploring Chinatown is easy from your Sydney accommodation
Exploring Sydney Chinatown should be part of your Sydney itinerary. Whether you’re looking for sumptuous meals or a cheap trinket, Chinatown is the place to go. If you plan on going to Chinatown, find yourself an excellent accommodation in Sydney. You want a beautiful place to let loose and relax after a long day of shopping and eating out. Look for a hotel that gives you personalised services. Find yourself a tranquil stop at the heart of the Double Bay.