Relive Life Under the Chinese Exclusion Act

With a history of over 160 years, Chinatown is one of NYC’s oldest neighborhoods. Experience Chinatown through the intimate lens of the Chinese Exclusion Act, the first U.S. law that banned an entire ethnic group from coming into this country for more than 60 years. Through our immersive tour, you’ll discover the dark origins of the neighborhood, hear stories of assimilation and sacrifice, and learn about the challenges Chinese Americans continue to face in pursuit of the American Dream.

Our journey through time begins at the statue of Lin Ze Xu, where you’ll learn why the Chinese first came to America. Then, we’ll take you through the winding streets of Chinatown and show you the historical eateries, shops, and institutions that have shaped this community over the years. Learn how this discriminatory law impacted these early immigrants and gave rise to the laundry, restaurant, and garment industries. We’ll end the tour by discussing the far-reaching effects of the Chinese Exclusion Act on the present-day immigrant experience and share our personal stories of growing up as second-generation Chinese Americans.

Whether you’ve come to Chinatown for years or it’s your first time, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this storied neighborhood. We look forward to seeing you!

* Interested in booking a private tour? Contact us here. (Please note: private tours start at $200) *

Where we’ll meet

• At the benches next to the Statue of Lin Ze Xue in Chatham Square