Honolulu is renowned not only for its stunning beaches and majestic natural landscapes but also as a vibrant cultural and artistic hub. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful island, don’t miss the chance to explore its unique street art districts, where colorful murals and creative sculptures tell captivating stories about Hawaiian history, culture, and its people.
Once considered a “seedier” area, Honolulu’s Chinatown has transformed into a captivating destination with a unique blend of cuisine, shopping, and art. The fusion of world-class restaurants and nostalgic eateries creates a distinctive charm for this neighborhood. Take your time to explore the colorful markets and unique streets to truly experience the authentic flavors of Hawaii.
Bustling streets and unique architecture in Honolulu's Chinatown, Hawaii
Best Time to Explore Honolulu
Honolulu welcomes visitors year-round, but to avoid the rainy season, it’s best to plan your trip between April and October. These are the driest months, ideal for exploring art districts and enjoying outdoor activities.
History of Honolulu’s Chinatown
Chinatown, located in downtown Honolulu, is one of the few places that retains its old-world charm and community spirit while embracing modern ideals, art, and cultural exchange.
In the 1930s, this area was known for its nightclubs, brothels, and illicit activities. However, after being listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, the city began investing in the area, and Chinatown started to revive and thrive as it is today.
A historic street corner in Honolulu's Chinatown featuring buildings with Asian architectural influences
Amazing Experiences in Chinatown
Savor Local Cuisine
Visiting Chinatown and missing the chance to enjoy its rich Asian cuisine would be a huge oversight. Chinese restaurants have dominated the area since its establishment in the 1840s and 1850s, with local dishes loved for generations. In addition, the area attracts many other trendy eateries.
If you want to savor traditional Chinese food, visit Little Village Noodle House, which specializes in family-style Cantonese dishes. Don’t forget to taste the delicious butter mochi at Sing Cheong Yeun Chinese Bakery.
Delicious butter mochi at Sing Cheong Yeun Chinese Bakery in Honolulu
Additionally, you can find other Asian cuisines here. Enjoy ramen at Lucky Belly or visit The Pig and The Lady to experience modern Vietnamese cuisine with a classic twist.
Experience the Nightlife
One of the great things about nightlife in Chinatown is that most of the best bars are close to each other, making it easy to hop from bar to bar and meet friends. You can choose from trendy cocktail bars like Tchin Tchin Bar and Manifest, to more lively bars like The Dragon Upstairs and Smith’s Union Bar. If you’re a whiskey lover, head to Bar Leather Apron, which boasts the largest whiskey list in Honolulu. Craft beer fans will appreciate the variety of craft beers at Bar 35.
Bar counter with unique design and impressive lighting in Honolulu
Shopping
Chinatown is home to many antique and vintage stores, as well as eclectic boutiques with unique collectibles and gifts. You’re sure to find something you like at Barrio Vintage or Tin Can Mailman on Nu’uanu. Nearby In4Mation offers more current styles with a Hawaiian theme. Chinatown has also seen new shops in recent years, including Ginger13, which sells handcrafted jewelry, and Hound & Quail, specializing in vintage oddities.
Antique shop with unique and time-worn items in Honolulu
Relax at Chinatown Cultural Plaza
Surrounded by shops and restaurants, Chinatown Cultural Plaza is the heart of the area and a place where many locals come to hang out and socialize. It’s a great place for people-watching. You’ll often see ritual altars in the center, and during Lunar New Year, the plaza hosts several celebratory activities.
Visit Foster Botanical Garden
If you’re looking for a green oasis in the bustling downtown Honolulu area, Foster Botanical Garden is the place to go. This 13.5-acre garden dates back to 1853 when Queen Kalama leased a portion of land to a German botanist. The botanist built his home on the property and established the garden, making it one of the oldest gardens in the state. The garden features thousands of plant and tree species new to the Hawaiian Islands, including the “corpse flower,” named for its pungent smell, which blooms only once every 5 to 7 years.
Lush Foster Botanical Garden with various rare plants in Honolulu
Located on the same grounds as Foster Botanical Garden is Honolulu’s oldest Chinese Buddhist temple, Kuan Yin Temple. The temple is dedicated to the bodhisattva of compassion and mercy. Here, you’ll find incense and offerings from visitors, as well as a peaceful setting for meditation, rest, or enjoying the scenery.
Explore Local Street Art
Most galleries are located along Bethel Street and Nuuanu Avenue, making it easy to gallery hop around Chinatown. Be sure to stop inside the Louis Pohl Gallery to see works by Hawaiian artists. Also, don’t forget to check the schedule at the Hawaii Theatre Center. Nearly 100 years old, this venue hosts a variety of entertainment, including musicals, comedies, and more.
Book Cheap Flights to Honolulu
If you want to find cheap flights to Honolulu but don’t have the time, contact the hotline: 028 3936 2020. You will be assisted in choosing flights that fit your personal schedule as well as airfares within the airline’s promotional programs. For the most helpful travel advice and to book flights, contact us today!
Exploring the street art districts in Honolulu is a unique and memorable experience. From the vibrant Chinatown to the creative art galleries, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and discover the exciting things this island has to offer. Plan your trip today and discover the amazing things that await you in Honolulu!