Preserving America's Chinatowns

The past, present, and future of Chinatowns in America

By Google Arts & Culture

Volleyball by Source: Chinatown Archive Project, D.C.1882 Foundation

America's Chinatowns stand as irreplaceable crossroads of history, culture, and identity. These enduring immigrant enclaves, some of the nation's most ancient, continue to be home to hundreds of thousands of residents, laborers, small businesses, and cherished institutions.

Gold RushChinese American Museum DC

The first US Chinatown was in California during the Gold Rush. From there, Chinatowns emerged in cities across the country, becoming hubs of cultural exchange, economic activity, and community solidarity.

Lion Dance in Boston by Chinatown Main StreetNational Trust for Historic Preservation

Chinatowns today are vibrant hubs of culture, bustling with authentic cuisine, traditional festivals, and thriving businesses. However, they face gentrification, economic pressures, and cultural assimilation. 

Ben Meat Market (Exterior) (2021-01-18) by Fuxuan XinWelcome to Chinatown

Chinatowns across the US are working to preserve their communities. Collaborative efforts with local groups and governments safeguard landmarks, support businesses, and celebrate cultural heritage, ensuring vibrant, resilient enclaves for generations to come.

Chinese New Year, Honolulu Chinatown (2023-01-14) by Cliff Kimura, a photographer based in Honolulu who specializes in documentary and travel photography.Historic Hawai‘i Foundation

Explore the stories that elevate the people, places, history, and culture of America’s Chinatowns to ensure they can continue to thrive as living places and communities to serve future generations.

Credits: All media
The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
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America's Chinatowns
Celebrate Chinatowns' history, culture, and communities
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