Lima’s Chinatown: Barrio Chino

Enter South America’s largest Chinatown through a distinctive red arch (1971). The Chinese Doorway known as Portada China marks the entrance to Lima’s Barrio Chino. It was a gift from the Chinese government, officially inaugurated by Lima mayor Alberto Andrade in July 1997 when the area underwent major reconstruction. Located next to Mercado Central on Calle Capon, Lima’s Chinatown is a unique gastronomic and shopping attraction. Peru is home to Latin America’s largest population of first-generation Chinese. Chinese people born in Peru are known as Tu-San. While there are over 6,000 chinese food restaurants in Lima, the beacon of chifa food is found in Barrio Chino. In addition to good food there are a number of shops selling Asian paraphernalia. It is a great place to stroll around, catch a bite to eat, and get a feel for Lima’s Chinese culture.



Immigrants from China began to arrive in Peru in the mid-19th century, working in agriculture and later on the railroads. Some of the first immigrants arrived in Lima’s port neighbor, Callao in 1849. The Chinese immigrants flooded to Peru to replace the black slaves that were given freedom by President Ramón Castilla in 1851. Their descendants form the largest Chinese community in South America, and have an importance place in Peruvian cuisine.



Chifa restaurants feature large menus with Asian-Peruvian fusion food. The word "chifa" originates from two Chinese restaurants "chi" and "faan" which mean "eat rice." Today, chifa means delicious dishes and strong aromas that combine Chinese and Peruvian delights.



Chinatown is not only a good place to try the fusion food, but is also a haven for bargain hunters. All sorts of merchandise including CDs, DVDs, decorations, electronics, poster, incense, and other assorted items are available here. Practice your haggling skills to get the souvenir you desire. You can even have your palm read to predict where you should travel in Peru next.



This guide to Barrio Chino in Lima was written by a Peru travel expert at Peru For Less available to help you custom design your exciting Lima vacation.