Does Paris Have a Chinatown?

By Alice Nichols

If you’ve ever been to Paris, you may have wondered if the city has a Chinatown. After all, many major cities around the world have a designated area where Chinese immigrants and businesses thrive. In this article, we’ll explore whether or not Paris has a Chinatown.

What is a Chinatown?

Before we dive into whether Paris has a Chinatown or not, let’s first define what a Chinatown is. Typically, a Chinatown is an ethnic enclave of Chinese people within a larger city. These neighborhoods are known for their bustling streets filled with Chinese restaurants, shops selling traditional goods, and cultural events.

Paris’ Asian Community

While Paris doesn’t have an official Chinatown like other cities do, it does have a significant Asian community. The largest Asian community in Paris is actually made up of people of Vietnamese descent, who settled in the city after the Vietnam War. In fact, there’s even an area in Paris called Little Vietnam that’s known for its Vietnamese restaurants and shops.

The 13th Arrondissement

While there isn’t an official Chinatown in Paris, there is an area in the 13th arrondissement that’s commonly referred to as “Chinatown.” This neighborhood is home to many Chinese businesses and restaurants and has become known as the hub of Paris’ Chinese community.

The Belleville Neighborhood

Another area with a significant Asian presence in Paris is Belleville. While it’s not specifically known as a “Chinatown,” this neighborhood has become increasingly popular with Chinese residents over the years.

Conclusion

So, does Paris have a Chinatown? Well, technically no.

However, there are areas within the city that are home to significant Asian communities – including those of Chinese descent – and that offer similar experiences to what you might find in a traditional Chinatown. Whether you’re looking for delicious Chinese food or want to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, Paris has plenty to offer.