Chinatowns In Japan: A Twist of Flavor, History & Culture

Chinatowns are a vibrant part of the urban culinary and cultural scene in many countries worldwide. 

But did you know that Japan has some fascinating Chinatowns? These bustling districts offer a unique blend of Chinese and Japanese culture, a captivating history, and of course, incredible food. 

Planning a trip to Japan? Love learning about new places and cultures? We’ve got you covered in this edition of the Japanese Taste blog, as we explore the cultural and culinary wonder of Japan's Chinatowns.

What Are The Main Chinatowns Of Japan?

Japan has three main Chinatowns, each with its own distinct character and charm. 

These are located in the convenient proximity of major tourist destinations: Yokohama (near Tokyo); Kobe (near Osaka & Kyoto); and Nagasaki on the island of Kyushu.

In this section let’s explore an overview of the three Chinatowns; then be sure to read on, as later we’ll discuss what to see, do and eat on your Chinatown visit!

Yokohama Chinatown (Yokohama Chukagai)

The largest Chinatown in Japan, Yokohama Chinatown is a delightful detour just south of Tokyo. 

Easily accessible by train from major Tokyo stations like Shibuya and Shinjuku, Yokohama is an ideal day trip or evening adventure. Near Chinatown are other Yokohama sights such as Yamashita Park, Minato Mirai 21, Sankeien Gardens and the Cup Noodles Museum. 

Kobe Chinatown (Nankinmachi)

Located in the beautiful port city of Kobe, Nankinmachi (as Kobe’s Chinatown is officially known) offers a charming atmosphere in a fairly compact setting. 

You can reach Kobe and Nankinmachi by train from Osaka or even Kyoto, making it a great stop on a Kansai region itinerary. And at the same time, you can visit other popular Kobe stops such as Motomachi, the Old Foreign Settlement, Meriken Park and other nearby areas.

Nagasaki Chinatown (Shinchi Chinatown)

This historic Chinatown boasts a long and fascinating past. 

A vibrant port city on the island of Kyushu, Nagasaki can be reached by train from Fukuoka, or by domestic flight from Tokyo, Osaka and elsewhere. It was the port’s history of trade that helped Nagasaki Chinatown start and flourish.

History Of Japan's Chinatowns

The history of Chinatowns in Japan is deeply intertwined with the country's opening to foreign trade in the mid-19th century. 

After centuries of relative isolation, ports like Yokohama, Kobe and Nagasaki finally began welcoming international traders. Chinese merchants were among the first to arrive; they settled near the ports, forming the foundation of what would become Japan's Chinatowns.

While the Chinese population in Japan is somewhat smaller compared to those in the US, Canada, UK or Australia (around 0.7% of Japan’s total population is ethnic Chinese), Chinatowns have thrived as cultural hubs. 

The Chinatowns of Kobe, Yokohama and Nagasaki offer a fascinating glimpse into the blending of Chinese and Japanese traditions, from architecture and cuisine to festivals and customs.

Why Visit A Chinatown In Japan?

If you're a foodie, visiting a Chinatown in Japan is a must! 

These districts are a haven for delicious Chinese cuisine, often with unique Japanese twists.  

Beyond the food, Chinatowns offer a lively atmosphere, with colorful shops selling everything from traditional Chinese goods to quirky souvenirs. Exploring a Chinatown is also a great way to immerse yourself in a unique slice of Japanese history and culture (one that many visitors or Japan aficionados often overlook).

What Makes Chinatowns in Japan Unique?

While Chinatowns around the world share certain similarities, Japan's Chinatowns offer a distinct experience that sets them apart from counterparts in other countries. Here's why:

Scale and Focus

Chinatowns in Japan tend to be smaller and more compact compared to those in places like the US or Canada. They are primarily focused on food, shopping and cultural experiences rather than being large residential areas for Chinese immigrants.

Japanese Influence

You'll find a fusion of Japanese aesthetics and influences throughout Japan's Chinatowns. This can manifest in the decor of restaurants, the way food is presented or even the types of shops and businesses you'll encounter. For example, alongside traditional Chinese tea shops, you might find stores specializing in delicate Japanese tea cups.

A Cultural Snapshot

Visiting a Chinatown in Japan provides a unique window into the country's multicultural past and present. It's a chance to witness how Chinese traditions have been adapted and integrated within Japanese society, creating a vibrant and distinctive cultural blend.

What Are Chinatowns In Japan Famous For?

Japan's Chinatowns are a feast for the senses, offering a variety of exciting things to see, do and of course, taste! Ramen and gyoza are longtime favorites, of course, but don’t sleep on nikuman or chanpon, either!

Here's a look at the experiences awaiting you.

Yokohama Chinatown

Yokohama Chinatown is a paradise for foodies, with over 200 restaurants to choose from (including favorites from the Hunan, Sichuan, Guangdong (Cantonese) regions and more. Be sure to try the signature dish of Yokohama Iekei Ramen. For a casual treat, grab some juicy pork buns (nikuman) from a street vendor.

Kobe Chinatown

Kobe, a city famous for its beef, offers plenty of tasty and affordable Chinese cuisine in its Nankinmachi Chinatown neighborhood. Nikuman are very popular with locals and visitors alike here. You’ll find sidewalk stands hawking everything from savory buns and fried everything on a stick, to sweets, juices and much more.

Nagasaki Chinatown

Famed for its Nagasaki Champon and Sara Udon dishes, Nagasaki puts a unique spin on familiar classics. Champon is a hearty noodle soup with seafood and vegetables, while Sara Udon features crispy noodles in a flavorful sauce. Be sure to seek these Chinatown specialties during your visit.

Beyond the Bites

Chinatowns in Japan have plenty to offer those seeking adventures beyond food.

Shopping Spree – Great Souvenirs

Chinatowns are a treasure trove of unique finds. Browse shops overflowing with traditional Chinese teas, beautiful ceramics, charms and ideal souvenirs. Seek out stores specializing in Chinese medicine, or pop into boutiques offering delicate Japanese accessories for a fusion of styles.

Festival Fun – Chinese New Year & More

If you're lucky enough to visit during a festival, you're in for a treat! Chinese New Year celebrations in Chinatowns are particularly vibrant, with colorful parades, lion dances and delicious food stalls. Even outside of festival periods, Chinatowns are always buzzing with a lively energy.

Restaurant Recommendations For Your Japan Chinatown Visit

While the culinary scene in Japan is constantly evolving, many tried and true offerings in the Chinatowns of Kobe, Nagasaki and Yokohama are well worth a visit. 

The fare runs the full range, from street eats to multi course banquets. It all really depends on your budget and itinerary, of course, as well as your taste buds!

Yokohama Chinatown Eats

A visit to Yokohama Chinatown wouldn’t be complete without a taste of its signature dish: Yokohama Iekei Ramen. The best options include:

• Honmarutei
• Menkoitei
• Yoshu Menbo
• Yoshushonin

For a taste of Cantonese classics, head to Manchinro restaurant, known for its lavish interior and delicious Peking Duck.

To sample xiao long bao (or “shoronpo”) Shanghai-style soup dumplings bursting with flavor, try Tohoku Jinka.

As with any other foodie destination, you can’t go wrong if you “follow your nose” – or follow the queues, when you see folks lined up for good eats.

Noshing in Nankinmachi: What to Eat in Kobe Chinatown

Kobe’s Chinatown has some local and visitor favorites that are not to be missed. 

This includes both Chinese classics, Japanese twists on Chinese food… and even the famed Japanese delicacy of Kobe beef.

• Yunyun is a popular spot, with Japanese style (take-away) dim sum and Chinese comfort food; you’ll know it when you see the line (fast moving and well worth it)
• Popular Chinese sit-down restaurants here include Daidoko, Sho-En and Gun’Ai
• Nikuman or butaman (pork buns) from Roushouki (pro tip, if the line here is too long, walk a few steps cross the plaza and look for the sign that says “曹家包子館” (with a pig statue outside), and you’ll get the same buns with a much shorter line… nearby Ikkanrou also has great steamed buns
• Bakery Riki around the corner from Chinatown always has a line, too – but well worth it for (nothing Chinese but) tasty French pastry
• Kobe Korokke is well known for its Japanese style croquettes, a good snack for your upcoming shinkansen ride or to take back to your hotel

While you’ll see standing bars offering Kobe beef slices, sushi or steaks in this area, there are better places in Kobe to savor its eponymous beef (such as Mouriya, Misono and Iwasaki).

Nagasaki Chinatown’s Culinary Array

If you’re enjoying Hakata ramen in Fukuoka, why not extend the Chinese theme and enjoy lunch or dinner in Chinatown as part of your visit to historic, picturesque Nagasaki?

• Shikairou is a must-visit for its fantastic Champon and mouth-watering Sara Udon dishes.
• Mirakuen is a great choice for Nagasaki Champon, too.
• Toh-En serves up a delicious, piquant mabo tofu.
• For a delicious and casual bite, try the street vendors offering nikuman in various flavors.

Chinese food in Nagasaki, be it “authentic” fare or dishes with a Japanese twist such as Chanpon, will be a great memory of your Japan/Kyushu trip, and serve to impress your friends and followers on the ‘Gram!

Is It Worth Visiting a Chinatown If You Come To Japan?

If you're passionate about food, curious about cultural crossroads or simply love exploring vibrant neighborhoods, then a visit to one of Japan's Chinatowns is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. 

These lively districts offer a unique blend of Chinese and Japanese flavors, a glimpse into a fascinating history and a chance to experience a different side of Japan. 

Whether you choose the bustling streets of Yokohama Chinatown, the compact and convenient Chinatown scene that is Kobe's Nankinmachi or the historic charm of Nagasaki's Shinchi Chinatown, you're sure to create unforgettable memories and maybe even discover a new favorite dish!

Have you experienced a Chinatown in Japan? Tell us about it in the comments below!