Central Plaza East Gate, Los Angeles

The East Gate, one of the most recognizable landmarks in LA’s Old Chinatown Plaza, is found at the eastern entrance to the plaza, on the west side of North Broadway between West College Street and Bamboo Lane. As you approach from Broadway, look for the large traditional Chinese gateway spanning the entrance, with red columns, an ornate tiled roof, and golden decorative details. Walk directly beneath it to enter the heart of the historic plaza.

The gate is particularly atmospheric after dark, when its outline and Chinese characters are illuminated with neon lights. From beneath the arch, look straight ahead into the plaza, where brightly lit restaurants, gift shops, fortune-telling businesses, and historic storefronts create one of Chinatown’s most photogenic scenes. The gate’s first lighting ceremony was held in 1939, on the first anniversary of the opening of New Chinatown. It was ceremonially illuminated again in 1985 following an extensive neighborhood restoration and beautification project.

Also known as the Gate of Maternal Virtues, the East Gate was commissioned by Chinese-American attorney You Chung Hong in memory of his mother. Before passing through, look up at the four Chinese characters displayed prominently beneath the roof. The inscription refers to the spirit of Mother Meng and Mother Ow, the two women traditionally celebrated as exemplary mothers in Chinese history.

Once inside, pause and look around the plaza. Its narrow walkways, balconies, lanterns, and historic storefronts have appeared in numerous films and television productions, including Rush Hour, Lethal Weapon 4, 8MM, Chinatown, Beverly Hills, 90210, and Melrose Place.

After walking through the gate, turn right and look toward the tower beside the entrance. High on its exterior is the Dragon Chasing Pearl mural, easily recognized by its curling dragon pursuing a symbolic pearl. The original mural was painted in 1941 by Chinese-American artist Tyrus Wong, later celebrated for his influential work on Disney’s Bambi.

Continue exploring the buildings near the gate and look for Realm, a home décor and lifestyle shop. The location was formerly occupied by the Hong Kong Café, an important venue in Los Angeles’ early punk-rock scene. Step inside and look for a photograph of punk singer Alice Bag displayed on the wall—a reminder that this seemingly traditional corner of Chinatown also played a role in the city’s alternative music history.