In Incheon, you can find the largest Chinatown in South Korea. Located near Incheon Station, Chinatown is like a small China in Korea, offering an experience of Chinese food and culture without actually going to China.
Chinatown was established following the opening of Incheon in 1883 under the Kanghwa Treaty, following similar openings in Busan in 1876 and Wonsan in 1880. It covers an area of 140,000 square meters in Songhak-dong, Songwol-dong, and Manseok-dong, surrounded by the freedom park and the diplomatic quarters of various countries such as Korea, the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Japan, and Germany, according to the Incheon Treaty Port Treaty.
“The Emperor’s Staircase in Chinatown”
At the heart of Chinatown lies the “Emperor’s Staircase,” a tourism experience staircase created in Chinatown where citizens can experience Chinese scenery and gain fortune by participating in staircase activities.
Comprising five floors, each floor has a unique concept:
- Path of Kings
- Emperor’s Secret Garden
- Journey to the Mysterious Garden
- The Great Wall Journey
- Peach Garden of the Immortals
True to its name, the Emperor’s Staircase is adorned with many stairs. On the right side of the Emperor’s Staircase lies “Yeonkyung,” famous for its white jjajangmyeon, with pictures drawn on each step, adding to the enjoyment of climbing the stairs.
“The Statue of Guan Yu”
As you ascend the staircase, you’ll naturally encounter information related to the “Three Kingdoms,” an essential part of Chinese culture. Here, you can also find the statue of Guan Yu, who transcended the Three Kingdoms to become a deity. Legend has it that touching Guan Yu’s hand three times brings wealth, which is why you may notice a slight difference in color on the statue’s hand.
“The Twelve Zodiac Statues”
Continuing up the stairs, you’ll come across the Twelve Zodiac Statues. Taking a photo according to your zodiac sign can hold special significance.
“The Third Pae-Lu Senrin Gate”
Behind the Twelve Zodiac Statues stands the Senrin Gate, which serves as a symbolic “Pae-Lu” of Chinatown. The name “Senrin Gate” signifies the harmony between Koreans and Chinese as close neighbors.
“Emperor’s Staircase Leading to Freedom Park”
Beyond the Senrin Gate, you’ll find a staircase leading to Freedom Park. Climbing this staircase will lead you to the park, where you can encounter the statue of General MacArthur, who planned and executed the successful Incheon Landing Operation.
“Incheon Chinatown: Emperor’s Staircase”
- Address: 4-24 Bukseong-dong 3(sam)-ga, Jung-gu, Incheon