A DAY IN CHINATOWN WITH MY EXPLORE CHICAGO CLASS

Explore Chicago students posing for a group photo near the zodiac statues in Chinatown.<br />

This week my Explore Chicago class took us on a trip to Chinatown and it turned out to be one of my favorite days this quarter. From the moment I got off the train station, it felt like I stepped into a different part of the city. It is so full of color, food, and history.

busy Chinatown street lined with restaurants and colorful shop signs in the afternoon light.<br />

The Chinatown Gate was the first thing that struck my eye. It stood tall with golden dragons and Chinese characters that welcomed us to the neighborhood. As we walked along a few blocks I noticed that it was so lively and busy, with people rushing by, conversations filling the air, and the smell of fresh food coming from nearby restaurants. This made me feel an essence of warmth. 

Students standing at a crosswalk facing the Chinatown Gate on a sunny day.
Traditional Chinese-style building with red roofs and ornate details under a clear blue sky in Chinatown.<br />

We learned that Chinatown has a rich history of Chinese immigration and community building. The Nine Dragon Wall was one of my favorite spots! It’s a replica of the famous wall in Beijing and symbolizes strength and good fortune. I also got to know that it has over 500 Dragons engraved. We also stopped by the beautiful pavilions near Chinatown Square, where the architecture felt calm and peaceful compared to the busy streets.

Bright restaurant signs with Chinese and English lettering along a busy Chinatown street.
Plates of dim sum including dumplings, sesame balls, and spring rolls served on a golden table.<br />

Walking through the busy streets, bakeries, noodle shops, and stores filled with lanterns and lucky cat figurines. Everything was vibrant and full of life. I loved seeing the mix of old traditions and modern touches in every corner. Of course, no Chinatown visit is complete without food! We went for dim sum and tried dumplings, sesame balls, and shrimp rolls. It was such a fun way to experience Chinese culture through food. 

Traditional-style pavilion surrounded by greenery at Chinatown Square Park on a sunny day.

Exploring Chinatown with my class made me appreciate how diverse Chicago really is. Every neighborhood has its own story and this trip helped me see how culture, community, and food come together to create something special. 

                                    ~Shahtaj

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