If you’re a history buff and you’re all about experiencing different Chinatowns in vastly different places, then Honolulu’s Chinatown could be your next destination! Here where the brother of Kamehameha I once lived at the end of the 8th century, Chinese laborers moved to the area in the 19th century to work on sugar plantations in Hawaii. Many stayed and became merchants here after their contracts expired, and the area has a fascinating history.

It suffered major fires, and survived the bubonic plague, today welcoming visitors to its 15 blocks that host a variety of things. Visit the art galleries here in Chinatown, housed in equally incredible buildings. The historic buildings that dot the area make it architecturally appealing, and you can explore the area to find the Sun Yat-sen statue close by the Chinese Cultural Plaza and Hawaii’s oldest Buddhist temple, Kuan Yin Temple. Don’t miss out on a visit to the Hawaii Theatre Pacific, which was lauded as the “Pride of the Pacific” at its opening. Of course, a trip to Chinatown isn’t complete without the food, is it? Check out Oahu Market for its fresh fruit, and various Asian dishes at the food court in Maunakea Marketplace!