Having been to Chinatown at least once every year throughout my life, I found this week's reading on Chinatown during the 1800s rather interesting. There were definitely aspects of Chinatown that I recognized through the descriptions provided, as well as some details I did not recognize. The infrastructure and essence of Chinatown still remains fairly much the same today as it did in the 1800s. Also, the manner in which the Chinese socialize and interact with each other, remains the same to an extent. One aspect of Chinatown which caught my eye instantly was the various store signs. As mentioned in the readings, Chinatown is always attractively decorated with various banners and shop signs, mostly sporting Chinese characters, symbolizing good fortune.

Shown above is a picture of Chinatown during the 1800s. In the picture, an old tenement building is shown, but still has various Chinese banners and shop signs attached. This is not much different from modern day Chinatown.

Much like the atmosphere and various shop banners and decorations of the 1800s version of Chinatown, this modern day image shows that Chinatown has managed to keep its vast shopping district alive and successful throughout the years. Personally, I find it interesting how throughout the years, Chinatown has been able to maintain this one aspect of its culture relatively unchanged. 

The first thing I notice about Chinatown is all its flashy banners and shop signs displaying various Chinese characters. In a way it brings the town to life and makes Chinatown a place filled with energy. 

What stands out in Chinatown for you?