Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Manila Chinese Cemetery
Explore the Manila Chinese Cemetery, a cultural treasure showcasing intricate tombs and a rich history of the Chinese community in the Philippines.
The Manila Chinese Cemetery is a remarkable destination that transcends the traditional notion of a cemetery. Established in the late 19th century, it showcases a unique blend of Chinese and Filipino culture, epitomized by its elaborate tombs and mausoleums, which are often adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors. Walking through its pathways, visitors can encounter a variety of architectural styles that reflect the rich history and heritage of the Chinese community in the Philippines. The cemetery serves as a cultural landmark where the past and present coexist, presenting an opportunity for tourists to delve into the stories of the families interred here. One of the most striking features of the Manila Chinese Cemetery is its size and the diversity of its structures. Each tomb is a representation of the deceased's status, with some mausoleums being grand and luxurious, equipped with living quarters for relatives to stay during special occasions. This practice highlights the importance of honoring the dead in Chinese culture, making the cemetery not just a place of mourning, but also a place of celebration and remembrance. Visitors can also find unique elements such as pagodas and Chinese-style gardens, contributing to the cemetery's peaceful ambiance. The cemetery is an ideal spot for photography, with its picturesque surroundings and artistic tomb designs. It's important for visitors to be respectful, as many families still visit their loved ones. As you wander through this serene space, you may feel a profound sense of connection to the stories of those who came before. The Manila Chinese Cemetery is more than a final resting place; it’s a vibrant celebration of life, culture, and heritage that enriches the tapestry of Manila's history.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning hours for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
- Respect the local customs; avoid loud conversations and be mindful of families visiting their loved ones.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the cultural significance of the cemetery.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the cemetery is quite expansive and requires a fair amount of walking.
A brief summary to Manila Chinese Cemetery
- JXMM+2V7, Manila, Santa Cruz, Metro Manila, PH
- +63282534202
- Monday 9 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-3 pm
- Thursday 9 am-3 pm
- Friday 9 am-3 pm
- Saturday 9 am-3 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from any point in Metro Manila and navigate towards Santa Cruz, Manila. Use a GPS or navigation app and enter the destination coordinates: Latitude 14.632532, Longitude 120.984659. The Manila Chinese Cemetery is located at JXMM+2V7, Santa Cruz, Manila. Parking might be limited in the area, so it’s advisable to arrive early to find a spot. Expect to pay for parking if you find a designated lot.
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Public Transportation - Jeepney
To reach Manila Chinese Cemetery via public transportation, you can take a jeepney that passes through Santa Cruz. Look for routes that go towards ‘Recto’ or ‘Quiapo’. Alight at the nearest stop to the cemetery and walk towards JXMM+2V7. Fares typically range from PHP 8 to PHP 15. Be sure to check the jeepney's route signage before boarding.
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Public Transportation - LRT
You can also take the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 1. Board the train at any LRT station and travel towards the ‘Balintawak’ station, then transfer to the LRT Line 2 at the ‘Recto’ station. From there, take a jeepney or walk to the cemetery. The LRT fare ranges from PHP 15 to PHP 30 depending on the distance traveled.
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Public Transportation - Taxi or Rideshare
For a more direct route, consider using a taxi or rideshare service like Grab. Simply input 'Manila Chinese Cemetery' or the address JXMM+2V7, Santa Cruz, Manila into the app. The fare will vary based on your starting location, but expect to pay around PHP 100 to PHP 300 depending on the distance and traffic conditions.
Attractions Nearby to Manila Chinese Cemetery
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Manila North Cemetery
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President Ramon Magsaysay Grave
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UST Museum
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Honorio Lopez Historical Marker - Plaza Moriones
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Bahay ni Bochog
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People's Park
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Malabon Zoo
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Chinatown
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Ongpin North Bridge Arch
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Divisoria Public Market - L1
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Carriedo Fountain
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Minor Basilica of San Sebastian and Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Archdiocese of Manila)
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Archdiocesan Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament (Archdiocese of Manila)
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Quiapo Church City Plaza
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Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz - Binondo Church (Archdiocese of Manila)
Landmarks nearby to Manila Chinese Cemetery
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Balumpare Arch
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Miguel de Benavides Monument
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Arch of the Centuries
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The Manila Grand Opera House Historical Marker
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Church of Santa Cruz Manila Historical Marker
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Kataastaasan Kagalanggalang na Katipunan Ng Mga Anak Ng Bayan Monument and Historical Marker
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Filipino-Chinese WWII Martyrs Memorial
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Roman Ongpin Monument and Historical Marker
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Church of Binondo Historical Marker
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Old Paterno Mansion
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Doña Teodora Alonzo Death Place Historical Marker
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Jose Abad Santos y Barce Historical Marker & Monument
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La Madre Filipina - Democracy, Gratitude, Progress, Justice
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The Maritime Expedition of Mexico - Philippines
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Baluarte De Santa Barbara