Things To Do in Binondo, Manila Chinatown

When you find yourself in Manila, there’s one place you simply can’t skip: Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world.

Bursting with history, culture, and undeniably delicious food, Binondo is the kind of place where every street, every turn, and every bite tells a story. It’s vibrant, chaotic, and wonderfully charming.

I recently spent a day there and came back and did it again, let me tell you—my stomach and soul were both very happy by the end of it!

Here’s my personal guide to the best things to do in Binondo for a perfect day out, plus a few tips to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.

1. Start at Binondo Church: A Journey Through History

Any trip to Binondo should begin at the historic Binondo Church, officially known as the Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz.

Built in the late 16th century, this church is not only a stunning piece of architecture but also a symbol of Binondo’s rich history.

Its mix of Spanish and Chinese influences is evident in its design, and the interiors are breathtaking, with beautifully preserved carvings and stained glass.

I took a quiet moment to sit inside and soak in the peaceful atmosphere before stepping back into the hustle and bustle outside.

The church is named after San Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino saint who was born right here in Binondo, making it an even more meaningful stop.

2. Dumpling Heaven at Dong Bei Dumplings

After wandering through the church grounds, I was ready to start my food journey—and trust me, Binondo is a haven for food lovers.

My first stop? Dong Bei Dumplings, a cosy little shop that specialises in handmade dumplings.

Its only a take away / take out shop so be ready to munch while walking or sit in a corner like I did.

As soon as I got there, I was immediately greeted by the sight of workers expertly folding dumplings at the counter.

I ordered their signature pork and kuchay (chives) dumplings, and when they arrived steaming hot, I couldn’t wait to dig in.

One bite and I understood the hype—soft, juicy, and packed with flavour.

Dip them in their homemade chilli sauce, and it’s pure bliss. Simple, affordable, and absolutely delicious.

Here is the price and menu at Dong Bei Dumplings as of December 2024

3. Stroll Along Ongpin Street

Next, I wandered along Ongpin Street, the beating heart of Binondo. It’s a colourful, chaotic stretch lined with restaurants, bakeries, jewellery stores, and stalls selling everything from fresh fruits to street food.

Walking through Ongpin is an experience in itself. The aroma of fried siopao, noodles, and roasted duck follows you as you explore, and you’ll hear vendors calling out their wares as people bustle past.

I made sure to take my time, snapping photos of the Chinese lanterns and signage that give the street its iconic character.

During Christmas, you will get lots of Catanas or Chesnust and tikoy vendors.

Another popular drink at the moment is a fresh sugar cane which is very refreshing after long walks!

4. Shop for Souvenirs and Lucky Charms

No trip to Chinatown is complete without a little shopping, and Binondo is full of treasure troves.

I popped into small shops selling everything from traditional ang pao (red envelopes for gifting money) to lucky charms like waving maneki-neko cats and jade bracelets.

I bought a set of red envelopes—they’re perfect for gifts and symbolise good fortune.

It’s fascinating how these little tokens carry so much meaning in Chinese culture.

Whether you’re looking for lucky trinkets, decorative lanterns, or even gold jewellery (Binondo is known for its jewellery stores!), you’ll find something unique to take home.

5. Pasalubong Shopping at Eng Bee Tin things to do in binondo manila chinatown

If you’re after edible souvenirs, Eng Bee Tin is the ultimate stop.

Known as a Binondo institution, this bakery is famous for its hopia—a flaky, mooncake-like pastry stuffed with various fillings.

They offer all sorts of flavours, from the classic mung bean to modern ones like ube and pandan.

I stocked up on a few boxes of hopia and some tikoy (a glutinous rice cake traditionally enjoyed during Chinese New Year).

These treats make for great gifts, and let’s be honest—I saved a box for myself to snack on later!

6. Feast at Chan Kee for Beef Tendon and Other Delicacies

By this point, I had done a fair amount of walking and shopping, so it was time for another meal. I headed to Chuan Kee, a well-loved spot known for its hearty Chinese dishes. Their beef tendon soup came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint.

Chuan Kee restaurant is the one on ground floor of the building. Food is great but it doesn’t have air conditioning, and the queues can get quite long, even during quieter times. Luckily, there’s an upstairs dining area - Cafe Mezzanine, that offers the same menu but with a 20% service charge. The trade-off? It’s air-conditioned, far more comfortable, and there’s little to no queue. We opted for the upstairs restaurant, and it was well worth it.

The broth was rich and flavourful, and the beef tendon was melt-in-your-mouth tender—comfort food at its finest. I also tried a few other dishes, including their tasty roast pork and kikiam (Chinese-style meat rolls). Every bite was a testament to the bold, authentic flavours that Binondo is known for.

7. Explore Intramuros next

While Binondo offers a perfect half-day experience with its food, shopping, and rich history, you can easily extend your adventure by heading to Intramuros, Manila’s famous “Walled City.” Located just about 15 minutes away by car (or a quick Grab ride), Intramuros is an ideal next stop to continue immersing yourself in Manila’s history and colonial charm.

Intramuros, built during the Spanish colonial period in the late 16th century, was once the heart of Manila. Stepping into its walls feels like travelling back in time as cobblestone streets, old churches, and Spanish-inspired architecture transport you to a bygone era.

Practical Tips for Visiting Binondo

Before you go, here are a few things you should know to make your visit smooth and enjoyable:

• Watch Your Belongings: Binondo can get very busy, especially around Ongpin Street and the markets. Be alert and keep your bags and valuables secure at all times.

• Say No Politely: You may encounter vendors or people offering services like guiding tours and even kids begging. Just smile and say “No, thank you” politely, and they’ll leave you alone.

• Visit on Weekdays: If you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays, preferably on Monday or Tuesday, between 9 AM and 2 PM. It’s much quieter and far easier to explore at your own pace. Weekends tend to be packed with tourists and locals alike, so if you dislike crowds, steer clear.

  
  
  
  

Binondo is a place like no other. It’s vibrant, chaotic, and full of charm—a district where history meets modern-day life, and where the food is guaranteed to make your tastebuds dance.

From the historic Binondo Church to devouring dumplings at Dong Bei, shopping for souvenirs at Eng Bee Tin, and indulging in comforting beef tendon at Chan Kee, every moment in Binondo felt like a little adventure. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just someone looking to explore Manila’s cultural gems, Binondo is a must-visit. things to do in binondo manila chinatown

Just remomebr to pack light, stay alert, and most importantly—bring your appetite. Have you been to Binondo before? Let me know your favourite spots in the comments below!