Before the vivid red banners and lanterns grace its lamp posts, before dancing dragons line up its streets and buildings, and before people gather and cheer for all the Lunar New Year festivities, Binondo has a peaceful nature that shows remnants of a simpler time. Even as its surroundings find themselves moving with the passage of time, there are still little corners and alleyways within the world’s oldest Chinatown that feel like an untouched beauty of days gone by. What’s even better is that the entire spot can be explored in one plain afternoon, with most must-visit spots just being within walking distance from one another.

For regulars of the area, it can be a busy sight. In just about every corner, you’d find independent mom-and-pop type shops that have been around for decades. Whether it’s stationery and art supplies you’re after, or traditional herbal medicine, or local Chinese delicacies, you’re sure to come across something you’ll like wherever you walk by.

One such path worth stopping by is Carvajal Street. When passing along this alleyway, you’ll find vendors selling fresh fruits and butchers selling various cuts of meat. There’s also the Merriam Webster Bookstore, where some titles being sold feel like a blast from the past. There are also some hole-in-the-wall style eateries you can encounter. Previously, the go-to spot here was the Quik Snack restaurant for its Sate Beef Chami. Though from our recent visit, its physical branch was still closed to the public and was only accepting orders for takeout. Luckily, there are still other eateries worth stopping by and enjoying a bite. New Puo Hing Lumpia is one of those must-try eateries. Try the Fresh Lumpia, sold at the affordable price of just ₱110. We also enjoyed the Kiampong rice dish and Pork Maki Soup.

After enjoying a filling meal, the thought of bringing home something to share with the family comes to mind. A personal favorite stop is the Eng Bee Tin shop for sweet treats like hopia and tikoy. You can never go wrong with ordering the Hopia Ube or Hopia Mongo to share with others.

Even as the night falls, there are still little corners that come alive. For art lovers, Binondo’s Escolta Street is the place to be. Many of the buildings in the area stand out for their Art Deco-inspired designs. Perhaps the most iconic one is the First United Building. At its ground floor, you’ll find independent artists and vendors selling their wares at the Hub: Make Lab. First United Building was also once home to comedian Dolphy’s production house, RVQ Productions. After exploring around, you can end the day with a drink from Fred’s Revolución-Escolta, the second branch of the famed Cubao Expo stop.