Each time Chinese New Year is approaching, preparations are underway around the world. Here are some Chinatowns for those outside of China wishing to celebrate Chinese New Year.
London
Although it may not be as large or as long-built as others, having only become a center for the Chinese community during the 1950s, London’s Chinatown is a perfectly formed firework that knows how to welcome the new year with a bang. Decorated with red lanterns, previous years have seen shows with acrobatics (杂技), martial arts (武术), dances and operas nearby.
San Francisco
San Francisco’s Chinatown is perhaps the most famous in the USA. The city was the main entry point for Chinese who had crossed the Pacific to the USA during the early 19th century. Between Grant Avenue and Stockton Street, this historic area is a local treasure, attracting more visitors per year than the Golden Gate Bridge.
Bangkok
With an about 100-year-old history, the Thai capital’s Chinatown contains complex streets offering all kinds of tasty food, clothes and toys. Sunday Market days are such a good time to get the full atmosphere of the neighborhood. The area is also known for its gold dealers, whose shops line the road.
Port Louis
Founded in Port Louis, this Mauritian Chinatown shows the island nation’s rich cultural diversity. Built in the early years of the 20th century by settlers from China, its tiny shops and restaurants serve locals and visitors. During Spring Festival, the most exciting sight is the dragon dances on the Rue Royale where Chinese musicians and dancers perform the traditional dragon dances through the streets.
Melbourne
The Chinatown in Melbourne, Australia was formed with the Victorian “gold rush” in the mid-19th century. According to Reuters, Melbourne Chinatown is not only the oldest Chinatown in Australia, but also the longest in all cities in the Western world. Many architectural relics of that time are still preserved, making this street a corridor of traditional Chinese architecture.
1. Which of the following has the longest history?
A.London’s Chinatown. | B.San Francisco’s Chinatown. |
C.Port Louis’s Chinatown. | D.Bangkok’s Chinatown. |
2. What’s special about Bangkok’s Chinatown?
A.It is crowded with Chinese restaurants. | B.It is the major entrance for the Chinese. |
C.It is well-known for its gold business. | D.You can enjoy fireworks there. |
3. Where can you go if you want to enjoy the dragon dances?
A.The Rue Royale in Port Louis. | B.The Sunday Market in Bangkok. |
C.Grant Avenue in San Francisco. | D.The Chinese community in London. |
4. If you want to see traditional Chinese architecture, you can go to the Chinatown in________.
A.London | B.Bangkok | C.Port Louis | D.Melbourne |