Binondo among top places to celebrate Chinese New Year

MANILA, Philippines — China town in Manila has been named among the top destinations to visit this Chinese New Year by travel site Skyscanner.

The travel website listed the top 18 destinations across the world where tourists can take part in the Chinese celebration.

Skyscanner particularly cited Binondo in Manila as it houses the world’s oldest China town.

“Head down to Ongpin Street to enjoy traditional dances, be deafened by firecrackers and pick up some lucky charms or score a plate of sticky tikoy for a new year treat,” Skyscanner said.

Chinese New Year will be celebrated on Feb. 16.

Binondo joins other top destinations on the list such as Beijing, Hong Kong and London among others.

Chinatown in Binondo is claimed to be the oldest in the world, having been built in around 1594.

In 2015, Manila inaugurated the world’s largest China town arch located at the foot of Jones Bridge.

The construction of the 63.8 feet high and 74-feet wide arhc was said to be part of the initial phases of the redevelopment of Chinatown.

Earlier this month, Skyscanner cited Manila as a destination to visit in January.

“January is the coldest month of the year in Manila, though you can still expect plenty of sunshine and a warm welcome to one of Asia’s most underrated and vibrant capitals,” Skyscanner earlier said. 

The travel site identified the Feast of the Black Nazarene as one of the events tourists witness in the first month of the year.

“Plan your visit to coincide with the Feast of the Black Nazarene on Jan. 9th where you’ll see a life-sized statue of Jesus (brought to the Philippines from Mexico in 1606) carried through the packed streets by Quiapo Church by devotees shouting “Viva Señor” whilst the crowds try and touch the statue for blessings and miracles,” it said.

“To really get into the spirit of things, leave the shoes at home and go barefoot,” the travel site added.