Barrio Chino: A Taste of Asia in Buenos Aires
Explore Buenos Aires' vibrant Chinatown: Authentic Asian cuisine, unique shops, and cultural experiences await in Belgrano.
Barrio Chino, nestled in the Belgrano neighborhood of Buenos Aires, is a vibrant hub of Asian culture and commerce. This bustling enclave, also known as Chinatown, emerged in the 1980s with an influx of immigrants from China, Taiwan, Japan, and Thailand. Today, it offers a unique experience with its bustling streets, authentic cuisine, and diverse shops. The entrance to Barrio Chino is marked by a towering, ornate archway at the intersection of Juramento and Arribeños streets. This impressive structure, gifted by China in 2009 for Argentina's Bicentennial, is adorned with dragons and lions, symbolizing friendship and good fortune. Walking through the arch, visitors are immediately immersed in a world of Asian sights, sounds, and smells. Arribeños Street, the heart of Barrio Chino, is lined with shops selling a variety of imported goods, from traditional clothing and crafts to anime and manga merchandise. Supermarkets offer a wide array of Asian ingredients and products that are hard to find elsewhere in Buenos Aires. The neighborhood is also a culinary destination, with numerous restaurants serving authentic Chinese, Taiwanese, and other Asian cuisines. Many restaurants offer good-priced fixed menus for lunch. Be aware that many businesses operate on cash only. Beyond the commerce, Barrio Chino also has cultural and religious landmarks. The Tzong Kuan Temple, inaugurated in 1988, stands as one of the first Buddhist temples in the city. While small compared to other Chinatowns around the world, Barrio Chino in Buenos Aires is a dynamic and evolving neighborhood that reflects the city's multicultural identity. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of Asia in the heart of Argentina.
Local tips
- Visit on weekends for the full Barrio Chino experience, but be prepared for crowds.
- Bring cash, as many shops and restaurants do not accept credit cards.
- Explore beyond Arribeños Street to discover hidden gems and quieter spots.
- Try the fresh seafood at the ChungHwa supermarket for affordable and high-quality options.
- Visit during Chinese New Year (late January or early February) for vibrant celebrations.
A brief summary to Barrio Chino
- Buenos Aires, Barrio Chino, Belgrano, Comuna 13, Buenos Aires, AR
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the city center, take Line D (Subte) to the Juramento station. Upon exiting, walk along Juramento Avenue towards Arribeños Street; the iconic archway marking the entrance to Barrio Chino will be directly in front of you. A registered SUBE card is required; the fare is AR$757. Alternatively, the Belgrano C train station is across the street from the arch. Take the Tigre line from Retiro station. The cost is AR$130 with a registered SUBE card.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Cabify are readily available in Buenos Aires. A taxi from Plaza de Mayo to Barrio Chino will cost approximately AR$1933, with a 20% surcharge from 10 PM to 6 AM. The base fare is ARS 657, plus ARS 67.50 per 200 meters. Ensure the driver uses the meter. An Uber ride may vary depending on demand.
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Walking
If you are already in the Belgrano neighborhood, Barrio Chino is easily accessible on foot. From the Belgrano C train station, simply cross Juramento Avenue to reach the entrance arch. From Cabildo Avenue and Juramento, walk a few blocks towards the train tracks. There are no tolls or mandatory access fees for walking.
