Chinatown, Melbourne

Chinatown is a distinct neighborhood located in the central business district (CBD) of Melbourne, Victoria. Situated primarily at the eastern end of Little Bourke Street, it stretches between the intersections of Swanston and Spring streets and encompasses a network of narrow streets, alleys, and covered walkways. This neighborhood was established in the 1850s during the Victorian gold rush and holds the distinction of being the longest-standing continuous Chinese community in the Western World, as well as the oldest Chinatown in the Southern Hemisphere.

Melbourne's Chinatown has played a significant role in shaping the Chinese immigrant culture in Australia. It continues to be home to a multitude of Chinese restaurants, cultural venues, businesses, and places of worship. In the present day, Melbourne's Chinatown is a prominent tourist destination, renowned for its historical architecture, annual festivals, diverse Asian cuisine, and entertainment options such as karaoke venues, bars, and fashion boutiques.

In addition to the area within Chinatown and the CBD, Melbourne's Chinese community is also well-represented in other parts of the city, with Box Hill being a notable example. In fact, there is currently a major development project called "New Chinatown" underway in Box Hill, with an investment of $450 million. Furthermore, Chinatown is also home to the Chinese Museum, serving as a cultural hub for preserving and showcasing Chinese heritage.