Cap�n Street: Guide to enjoy the best of Chinatown

Chinatown is one of the busiest places in downtown Lima and is also known as Calle Capón. When it is summer time you can take advantage of buying a passion fruit raspadilla with strawberry or tamarind.

So that you have a better reference, I show you the following image, just on the left hand side in one of the first stores you will find a raspadilla at the door of the business for about 2 soles, the times I have gone in the summer season I always try to buy one and sit for a while in this little China in the center of Lima.

History

It was 1849 and the first group of Chinese citizens arrived in Peru. The intention was only one: to work in the crop fields south of Lima. Years later, they left agricultural activity, joined a group and reached the center of the capital. This is how Lima's Chinatown was born. Or simply, Capón Street.

By 1855, six years after the first 70 Chinese landed in the port of Callao, a group of Cantonese people were making a name for themselves in what we know today as the Central Market of Lima. They skillfully dedicated themselves to caponeing (castrating) hundreds of pigs every day, which is where the name of the picturesque street comes from.

There were three main reasons why the trade of the Chinese 'cappers' has had some success. First of all, animals become quieter and tamer. Secondly, this caused the pig to gain weight and its meat did not maintain a strong smell. And finally, this prevented violent disputes between the pigs during their mating season.

A real Chinatown

Visiting Capón Street means entering its striking galleries full of elements of Chinese culture. The traveler can buy small Buddha ornaments for good luck, a toad for prosperity or a small fortune cat. The prices of these may vary, starting at S/ 5.

Here you can also learn how to give the right balance to your home. Some stores, such as La Tienda del Feng Shui, offer elements based on the practice of this ancient technique. So, for example, you will find rice lamps from S/ 68 or china sets for less than S/ 100.

Lovers of esotericism will also enjoy this place. For a payment of S/30, you can receive a cleansing of your soul and leave aside all that negative burden of everyday life. After that, it is advisable to carry a small amulet from the place that can cost from S/ 5.

The visitor can also remain part of the history of Capón Street. For the payment of US$30, the desired name and an inspiring message will be engraved on one of the red floor tiles. Dare and be part of this traditional space in the center of Lima.

The Eden of the Chifas

A large part of Peruvians usually visit this Chinese neighborhood due to the presence of its traditional chifas. Although it is a fusion food between both cultures, Capón Street is home to some of the best restaurants specialized in its preparation.

One of the restaurants preferred by visitors to this place is Wa Lok. Although its creation dates back less than two decades, this chifa has become the star of Chinatown. Their most popular dishes are the ribs with vinegar (S/ 47) and the noodles with curry meat (S/ 40).

Another of the busiest places on Calle Capón is the Salón China. This place stands out for its varied buffet: for a payment of S/ 36 (on Saturdays and Sundays S/ 39), the visitor has the right to eat as much as they can from a varied menu of dishes.

If you want to try an innovative fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cuisines, a visit to San Joy Lao is recommended. There you can try the new Chi Jau Cuy, a preparation that replaces chicken with the tasty meat of the small Andean animal.

But not everything is about exclusivity when tasting the Chinese seasoning. Capón Street is home to more than a dozen small and inexpensive restaurants where travelers will not have to spend much. On average, the cost of each dish fluctuates between S/ 10 and S/. 12.

Some more food

Dim Sum, the most popular Chinese snack stand on Calle Capón, has some options for eating on the go. Sweet and savory min pao, small pork siu mai, nice spring rolls and crispy chicken wings that cost, on average, S/ 3.

Meters away, dozens of Peking ducks from the oven are hung and displayed in display cases. The golden and crispy skin catches the attention of visitors to Calle Capón. To take it, you can pay two types of prices: S/ 15 per portion and S/ 60 per kilo of that meat cooked in the oriental style.

What are you waiting for? This time is a good time to visit Calle Capón and enjoy its history. You will see the celebration of the beginning of the Chinese New Year by members of their own community. It is a show that you cannot miss. Come on! To visit him.

Best Tours in Peru

Many are the routes that take you to Machu Picchu, but none is like the Inca Trail tours, the most famous pedestrian path in the Americas. After flying from the capital of Peru, Lima, you will arrive in Cusco to walk for four days along a path through forests and dense fog, millenary stone steps and discovering the ruins of ancient fortifications and Inca cities, and all the time enjoying majestic views.

If you want to visit Machu Picchu, we recommend you to book your Machu Picchu ticket in advance, so you will enjoy your vacation in Machu Picchu without any problem.