Chinatown-International District

Explore

After passing through the Historic Chinatown Gate (504 Fifth Ave S), an ornate 45-foot-tall structure made from some 8,000 imported ceramic Chinese tiles, continue along lively King Street to the superb Wing Luke Museum (719 S King St), with its outstanding exhibits and galleries and themed walking tours. Savor a cup of tea at the Panama Hotel and Tea House (605–607 S Main St), which dates to 1911 and contains photos and memorabilia as well as the nation’s last Japanese-style public bathhouse. Kobe Terrace (650 S Main St) is a beautiful Japanese garden with a stone lantern from Kobe, which is a sister city of Seattle.

Eat and Drink

In this historic district, Maneki (304 Sixth Ave S) and Tai Tung (655 S King St) are the city’s oldest Japanese and Chinese restaurants, respectively. But you’ll also find Kilig (710 Eighth Ave S), the new Filipino restaurant from James Beard–nominated chef Melissa Miranda (of Musang fame). In Little Saigon, Pho Bac Sup Shop (1240 S Jackson St) draws raves for its flavorful noodle soups; Saigon Vietnam Deli (1200 S Jackson St) serves hearty bánh mì sandwiches; and Tamarind Tree (1036 S Jackson St) turns out delicious Vietnamese lettuce rolls, rice dishes, and cocktails.

Shop

Browse incredibly vast Uwajimaya (600 Fifth Ave S), an iconic Asian supermarket with foods, gifts, and housewares, and the well-stocked book, movie, and music store Kinokuniya (525 S Weller St). Check out the hip-hop-influenced caps, streetwear (both new and vintage), body products, and candles at Trichome (618 S Jackson St). Sun May Co (5 Canton Alley S), the neighborhood’s oldest Chinese gift shop, opened in 1911 and carries imported bowls, tea sets, cards, decorative boxes, and other treasures.