Discovering Paris' Chinatown

When these immigrants arrived in Paris, the 13th arrondissement presented itself as the perfect base for settling down. At the time, the district's tall towers had just been built and were empty. This is how the neighborhood was born, at least as we know it today.

Eventually, the streets of the 13th arrondissement quickly filled with Chinese shops and restaurants. Today, Chinatown is one of Paris's attractions, drawing both tourists and Parisians who come here to shop.

In the rest of this article, we will recommend some must-sees in the neighborhood.

Urban Bivouac: The closest hotel to Paris’s Chinatown

Tang Frères

Tang Frères is the most famous shop in Paris’s Chinatown. The chain belongs to a group of Chinese-Laotian brothers who brought the concept to life after settling in France.

The supermarket directly imports most of its stock and products from China, including many things you have never seen or even heard of before. It’s fun to wander the aisles and pick out exotic foods or ornaments that make you feel like you’re somewhere far from Paris.

Tang Frères is the largest Asian supermarket in the capital. You’ll find everything from food items to cosmetics, clothing, and accessories. The supermarket is open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 8 pm. On Sundays, it opens from 10 am to 7 pm. Prices are reasonable, and the staff are friendly and welcoming.

Tang Frères is a must-visit Asian supermarket when in Paris.

Hidden Buddhist Temple

As the buildings in Paris’s Chinatown were already standing when immigrants moved into the city, none of the infrastructure is inherently "Chinese." Everything was developed by European architects who couldn’t have foreseen the influx of people from a foreign country.

For this reason, there is a misconception that Paris’s Chinatown lacks the temples and authentic landmarks that other Chinatowns are known for. But they are indeed present, just hidden inside otherwise ordinary-looking buildings.

Head to Rue de Disque and find the parking area near number 37. Hidden inside the entrance is one of the most beautiful Buddhist temples you’ll find in France. Visitors are welcome—if you can find it, of course.

Oslo Gallery

The Oslo Gallery in Chinatown is a sturdy concrete structure in the heart of the neighborhood. Inside, you’ll find a small shopping center known for offering the cheapest and most exotic products.

If you’re interested in Southeast Asian culture, take the time to visit this place. The ornaments, decor, and clothing are unique, and you won’t find them anywhere else in Paris. Prices are also unbeatable.

Attractions in Chinatown can be hard to spot since most are located inside or behind the buildings that make up the neighborhood's infrastructure. Walking is the easiest way to discover every spot, and locals are happy to point you in the right direction.

Olympiades Plaza

The Olympiades Shopping Center is considered the biggest attraction in Paris’s Chinatown. If you need to meet a friend in the neighborhood, this is the most central spot to do so.

The building mentioned above is part of a series of structures that make up the Olympiades complex.

Chinese and Vietnamese cuisines dominate this part of the city, and the variety of food seems endless. You’ll indulge in Pho, dimsum, and noodles until you need to return to your favorite hotel, located just 50 meters from the Olympiades Metro station on Rue Tolbiac.

The Olympiades is the place to be during the Chinese New Year in Paris. The parades and street festivities are unlike anything you’ll see in France. Don’t miss the dragon dances or martial arts demonstrations!

Other Attractions in Paris’s 13th Arrondissement

Paris’s Chinatown is just a short walk from other notable attractions in the 13th arrondissement. Since you’re venturing this far south, it makes sense to visit a few if you can.

The Place d’Italie lies slightly north of the Olympiades. It’s a large square, stretching over 200 meters, with the 13th arrondissement’s City Hall built within its space.

The Butte aux Cailles neighborhood is another part of the 13th not to miss! The cobblestone streets are filled with galleries and refreshing Art Deco houses. There’s also a 1920s-style pool open to the public.

Near the Seine on Quai François Mauriac, you’ll find the National Library of France. Inside the glass structure are over 15 million carefully preserved books and documents.

Chinatown and the 13th arrondissement as a whole offer plenty to keep you entertained for a day. Enjoy this cultural journey to the south of Paris—a destination the whole family can appreciate. Note that Chinatown buzzes like a hive on weekends. A must-see!