Honolulu Chinatown

The basics

The best way to explore Chinatown is on foot. Browse for fresh produce, fruits, and food at one of the popular markets, such as Oahu Market or Maunakea Marketplace. Wander past herbal medicine shops and acupuncturists. Get spiritual at Kuan Yin Temple or Izumo Taishakyo Mission Shrine. Immerse yourself in art in the galleries around Nuuanu and Bethel streets, or catch a performance at the Hawaii Theatre Center. Food options range from food courts to trendy restaurants by up-and-coming culinary stars, and there’s an eclectic assortment of nightlife options, too.

It’s easy to visit Chinatown independently, but a guided sightseeing tour will offer additional insights to this historical area. Options include tours focused on food; tours by foot, Segway, or bike; or the popular Circle Island tours. Opt for a private experience to fully customize your itinerary.

Things to know before you go

• Chinatown is ideal for art lovers, architecture fans, foodies, and nightlife enthusiasts.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s much to explore in the area.
• Bring cash if you plan to shop, as some vendors won’t accept anything else.

How to get there

Chinatown is located just a few blocks away from Downtown Honolulu. There’s limited parking in the area so it’s best to take public transportation. The Waikiki Trolley Red Line also stops in Chinatown, plus a number of buses stop in the area.

When to get there

The Chinatown markets tend to be most active in the mornings. Art lovers should visit on the “First Friday” of the month, when many galleries, boutiques, and restaurants feature art exhibitions and free entertainment. The main event is in the evening but the partying continues late into the night. Chinatown is at its most festive during the Chinese New Year celebrations.

Hawaii Theatre Center

Originally opened in 1922, the theater was known as “The Pride of the Pacific,” and built to rival opulent theaters in major cities. Fully restored, it reopened as a state-of-the-art performance center, and is listed in the State and National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can take a guided tour or watch a variety of performances at the theater.

Ways to explore

Honolulu Chinatown is one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in the city, and makes for a worthwhile stop while you’re in town. You could spend anywhere from a couple hours to an entire morning or afternoon exploring this lively area, whether you dine like a local on an off-the-beaten-path food tour, make a pitstop in the neighborhood during a hop-on hop-off trolley ride, or take a Segway excursion to explore the sights. Be sure to get there early, as many businesses start closing up shop by around 5pm.

Accessibility

You can travel to Chinatown via the wheelchair-accessible Waikiki Trolley, but accessibility varies between businesses, and it’s best to check ahead if there’s somewhere specific you’re keen to visit. Sidewalks are paved and shouldn’t prove a challenge to travelers with limited mobility.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, cash (many businesses are cash only)

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sun hat

Not allowed

Drinking alcohol on public streets.

Amenities

Public restrooms, visitor and information center, restaurants, shops

Address 

You can get to Honolulu Chinatown by driving, via taxi, or using public transportation, depending on your preference.

Driving

From Honolulu, take the H-1 west toward downtown and exit at King Street. From there, turn onto Maunakea Street towards Honolulu Chinatown.

Public transportation

Take the red line of the Waikiki Trolley to the stop on King Street and Bethel Street. Various routes of TheBus also stop in Chinatown, including C, E, 2, 13, 19, 20, 42, 40, 52, 55, 56, 57, 57A and 65.

Best times to visit

Be sure to visit from late morning to midafternoon, as many shops close around 5pm, although restaurants and bars remain open into the evening.

Best days to visit

Weekdays in the morning and early afternoon are when Honolulu Chinatown businesses are most active. Alternatively, come for dinner and to explore the area’s nightlife scene centered around North Hotel Street.

Best months to visit

Oahu boasts the sunniest and driest conditions during the summer months of June through August.

Special events

Visit Honolulu Chinatown on the first Friday of the month for First Friday Honolulu arts and cultural events, or during the Honolulu Festival in March.