Located right next to the lively Nieuwmarkt market square and the popular red light district, the Amsterdam Chinatown is made up of several city blocks brimming with Asian markets, restaurants and stores.
Today, I'd like to take you on a tour of this place.
Chinatown Amsterdam: article summary
Chinatown in Amsterdam: an Asian community
The name Chinatown is a bit of a misnomer, as in this part of town you'll see businesses and residents from many different Asian cultures, such as:
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Indonesia
Amsterdam's Chinese are, however, a very well-represented expatriate group in the city, and here vou'll even see road signs in Chinese and Dutch.
Discover the Buddhist temple of Zeedijk
The most important tourist attraction in Amsterdam's Chinatown is undoubtedly the Buddhist temple of Zeedijk, known as Fo Guang Shan He Hua.
The temple is located on Zeedijk Street, in the middle of all the stores and bars. It's a peaceful place to visit, in contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city.
This impressive building, with its brightly-colored walls and distinctive roof, is the largest Chinese-style Buddhist temple in Europe and has stood here since 2000, when Queen Beatrix herself celebrated the inauguration ceremony.
Visits to the temple are free every day except Monday, until 5 p.m.closing date.
Chinatown in Amsterdam: De Waag
The former gatehouse, converted into the Royal College of Surgeons, forms the central building of the Nieuwmarkt and now serves as a pleasant restaurant and café.
You'll find a few Asian restaurants here, but we'll come back to those later.
Close to the red-light district
Visit red-light district of Amsterdam is mainly known for its nightlife, but it's also its oldest district.
We recommend visiting this part of the city during the day too. To find out more, I recommend reading the article I wrote about him.
Shopping in Amsterdam's Chinatown
As the center of Asian culture in Amsterdam, Chinese markets and souvenir stores are scattered throughout this district.
Oriental Commodities is a large Chinese supermarket that sells many traditional Asian specialities.
The aisles may be narrow, but making your way here can be worth it for bargains, dried fish and other Eastern wonders.
Shopping in Dun Yong
Dun Yong has been an integral part of Amsterdam's Chinatown since 1959, and attracts visitors for several reasons.
As well as selling delicious Asian treats, this store offers a wide range of decorations and other souvenirs, as well as cooking classes. in their Saveurs d'Extrême-Orient cooking workshop.
Discover Amsterdam's Chinatown restaurants
One of the most remarkable things about Amsterdam's Chinatown is the number of restaurants you can see everywhere.
It's impossible to miss these establishments, with their many ducks hanging in the window - an enticing sight.
Restaurants in Amsterdam's Chinatown aren't all Chinese, and here you'll find many excellent Thai restaurants as well as Asian fusion restaurants and, of course, a number of Chinese restaurants.
The best-known Chinese restaurant in this part of Amsterdam is Nam Kee. This family-run restaurant has several locations throughout the city, but the ones in Chinatown are by far the most popular.
Thai restaurants are also plentiful, with places like Snackbar and Restaurant Bird always popular. These are also favorites with locals and expats alike.
During your stay in Amsterdam, if you want to travel and discover the joys of Asia while staying in the Netherlands, I recommend a trip to Chinatown. It's a great place to shop and discover unique flavors. All you need for a great vacation!
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