What better way is there to celebrate the Lunar New Year than with a
visit to Manila’s very own Chinatown in Binondo?
Declared
a national holiday in the Philippines, Chinese New Year is considered to be one
of the most important festivals among the Filipino-Chinese community in the
country. Fun and festivity is in the air during this occasion, making it the
best time to indulge in the rich cultural experience that a trip to Binondo has
to offer. While there, you can partake in delicious food, and engage in
traditional rituals and special activities to ring in the New Year.
What
are some of the best things to do in Binondo this Chinese New Year? We can name
a few. Check out these TikTok videos for some awesome ideas.
- Treat your tastebuds to some authentic Chinese cuisine
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| https://vt.tiktok.com/Ntr9hK/ |
When
in Binondo, you will never run out of good food to enjoy. A Chinese New Year
feast typically includes lucky foods such as fish, dumplings, spring rolls,
noodles, and good fortune fruits. Some restaurant favorites to try are
Sincerity Café & Restaurant, Ying Ying Tea House, and Dong Bei Dumplings.
- Have your fortune read
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| https://vt.tiktok.com/NnEcrx/ |
Visit
a Feng Shui master or a fortune-teller to find out what your lucky stars have
in store for you in the coming year. Alternatively, you may visit Kuang Kong
Temple, and let the wooden half-moons determine your fortune. If you aren’t up
for an adventure, you can always pick up a fortune cookie or two at one of the
popular bakeries in the area.
- Participate in Chinese rituals for luck
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| https://vt.tiktok.com/NWRMCf/ |
Attract
good fortune and share your blessings with others by participating in lucky
rituals this coming Chinese New Year. Some simple traditions you can easily do
are the giving of Ang Pao red envelopes with money inside, lighting incense at
a temple, and cleaning out old clutter and buying new clothes for the season.
- Shop for Chinese New Year gifts and lucky charms
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| https://vt.tiktok.com/NW1SEG/ |
Binondo
is a great place to go shopping for gifts for friends and family this Chinese
New Year. While there, make sure to check out some lucky charms that you can
keep or share, as well. Among the popular gifts to give are fruits, tea,
alcohol and tobacco, clothes, candies, and school supplies. Some popular lucky
charms you can find in Binondo are Chinese Knots, the Lucky Cat, and the
Smiling Buddha, among others.
- Watch a traditional dragon dance
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| https://vt.tiktok.com/NWdtPd/ |
The
dragon dance is probably the most iconic Chinese New Year custom. In this
traditional performance, the dragon symbolizes good fortune, wisdom, and
wealth. Often the highlight of a Chinese New Year celebration, it is believed
that the longer the dragon, the more luck it can bring to the community.
Are
you planning on joining the Chinese New Year fun in Binondo this year? Don’t
forget to try any or all of our recommended activities, and if you do, record
your own videos on TikTok, and share them using the hashtag #CNYPH2020.
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