[2025 Manila Attraction] Travel Guide for Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz - Binondo Church (Archdiocese of Manila) (Updated May)

#manilatrip Binondo Church, formally known as the Minor Basilica of St. Lorenzo Ruiz, is a historical and spiritual gem within Manila's Chinatown, Binondo. This centuries-old church holds a special place in the hearts of both the local community and visitors. The church's exterior is a fine example of Baroque architecture, with its intricately designed façade and majestic bell tower, which stand in striking contrast to the surrounding urban landscape. Inside, the church exudes a serene and tranquil ambiance, providing a respite from the hustle and bustle of Binondo's streets. #travel #urbanexplorer #mytripvlog #awesomepic #summervacation #passionpassport #manila #philippines

This time, we will introduce Binondo Church, a church located in Manila's Chinatown. Chinatown is located in the Binondo district of Manila, Philippines. This is said to be the oldest Chinatown in the world. The Binondo district, where Chinatown is located, is located on the north side of the Pasig River. And in Chinatown is Binondo Church. Binondo Church has been rebuilt several times, but the bell tower seems to have remained the original from the 16th century. The distinctive feature of this church is the beautiful painting on the ceiling. The decoration inside also somehow gives off a Chinese vibe. It matches Chinatown. This church has a slightly different atmosphere from regular churches, so why not go and check it out! #ManilaTourism #Manila #Church #Chinatown

Binondo Church, also known as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz and formerly known as Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish (Spanish: Basílica Menor de San Lorenzo Ruiz y Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Santísimo Rosario), is located in the District of Binondo, Manila fronting Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz, in the Philippines. This church was founded by Dominican priests in 1596 to serve their Chinese converts to Christianity. The original building was destroyed in 1762 by British bombardment. A new granite church was completed on the same site in 1852 however it was greatly damaged during the Second World War, with only the western façade and the octagonal belfry surviving. #blessed #bucketlistreboot

Stepping into **Binondo**, the world’s oldest Chinatown, feels like entering a vibrant time capsule where **Chinese, Filipino, and Spanish cultures** collide. From sizzling street food to hidden temples and bustling markets, my trip here was a sensory overload in the best way possible. Here’s how I spent a delicious day in Manila’s most iconic district. --- ## **Why Binondo?** - **Oldest Chinatown in the world** (established 1594). - **Foodie paradise**—birthplace of Filipino-Chinese dishes like *pancit, lumpia, and siopao*. - **Rich history** with ancestral shops, temples, and colonial-era streets. --- ## **My Binondo Itinerary** ### **☀️ Morning: Heritage Walk & Breakfast** 1. **Binondo Church (Minor Basilica of St. Lorenzo Ruiz)** - A stunning Spanish-era church with a mix of Baroque and Chinese motifs. 2. **Café Mezzanine** - Ate *champorado* (chocolate rice porridge) and *tuyo* (dried fish)—a salty-sweet combo! - Pro tip: This café doubles as a volunteer fire station! ### **🛍️ Midday: Ongpin Street & Hidden Gems** 1. **Ongpin Street** - Snacked on **hopia** (mung bean pastries) from **Eng Bee Tin** and **dragon’s beard candy** from street vendors. 2. **Santo Cristo de Longos** - A tiny chapel where a miraculous Chinese Christ statue was found. ### **🍜 Lunch: Legendary Eateries** - **Sincerity Café** - Ordered their famous **fried chicken** and **oyster cake**—crispy perfection! - **Tasty Dumplings** - Devoured *xiao long bao* (soup dumplings) dripping with broth. ### **⛩️ Afternoon: Temples & Markets** 1. **Binondo’s Hidden Alleyways** - Explored **Salazar Street** for dried goods and exotic fruits. 2. **Kuang Kong Temple** - Burned incense and admired the intricate carvings. ### **🌙 Evening: Street Food Feast** - **Dong Bei Dumplings** - Watched them hand-make *kuchay* (chive) dumplings—so fresh! - **QuikSnack** - Tried **pancit palabok** (noodles with shrimp sauce)—a must-eat! --- ## **Binondo Travel Tips** ✔ **Go hungry**—portions are huge and cheap! ✔ **Wear comfy shoes**—you’ll walk *a lot*. ✔ **Bring cash**—many spots don’t accept cards. ✔ **Try the “Binondo Food Crawl”**—guided tours are fun for first-timers. --- ## **Final Thoughts** Binondo isn’t just a place—it’s an **experience**. Between the smoky wok aromas, crumbling colonial architecture, and the hum of haggling vendors, I left with a full belly and a deeper love for Manila’s cultural mosaic. **Have you been to Binondo? What’s your favorite dish?** 🥢🍜 #Binondo #ManilaFoodTrip #ChinatownAdventures #PhilippineTravel #FoodieParadise #TravelAsia

#manilatrip 🥟Binondo, Manila’s vibrant Chinatown, established in 1594 as the world’s oldest, is a lively hub of Filipino-Chinese culture. Wander Ongpin Street to discover bustling markets, gold shops on Escolta, and the historic Binondo Church, blending Catholic and Chinese aesthetics at Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz. The iconic Jones Bridge, framed by the grand Chinatown Arch, is a photo must. Quirky stores sell lucky charms, while Lucky Chinatown Mall offers modern shopping.Food Experience: Binondo is a foodie’s paradise! Dive into steaming dumplings at Dong Bei or Quik Snack, savor creamy hopia at Eng Bee Tin, or try crispy lumpia at New Po-Heng. Sizzling sisig and beef mami at Sincerity Restaurant hit the spot, while Café Mezzanine offers spicy xiao long bao with a view. Street vendors hawk siomai and fish balls for quick bites. Prices are wallet-friendly, with meals from PHP 100–300 (~USD 2–6). Expect bold flavors and crowded eateries bursting with energy.Location: Binondo, Manila, 1006 Metro Manila, Philippines. Across the Pasig River from Intramuros, marked by the Filipino-Chinese Friendship Arch.How to Reach: A 15-minute walk from Intramuros or a jeepney from Quiapo. Taxis or Grab from Makati take 20-40 minutes, traffic depending. LRT-1 to Carriedo Station, then a 10-minute walk to the arch. Kalesa rides add charm. Parking is limited, so public transport is ideal. #travel #buffets #myitinerary #museums #couplestrip #beachlife #staycation #naturalwonders #thingstodo #seascapes #familytravel #resorts #afternoonteatime

#aprilblooms 🇵🇭Pristine Philippines🇵🇭 We visited the Binondo Church, also known as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of St. Lorenzo Ruiz, located in Manila's Chinatown district. The architectural style is Spanish or European Baroque and moreover it is notable for its octagonal five-tier Chinese-style bell tower which reflects the culture and art of the surround Chinatown. This church was founded by Dominican priests in 1596 to serve their Chinese Christian converts in the Binondo area where the Spanish authorities permitted Chinese and Chinese mestizos to live. The church also served native Filipino Christians. Despite being that old, the paintings inside the church are all still beatifically intact, so many stunning pictures of biblical figures on the walls and ceilings. We also bought a some colorful and meaningful candles to light from the vendor just at the church’s entrance. #xmastrip #myhiddengems #summervacation #freehotelstay #familytrip #localguides #manila #historicallandmarks #mytravelhacks #passionpassport #awesomepic #urbanexplorer #asia #foodie #asiatrip #mustdo #food #trip #travel #naturalwonders #couplestrip #thingstodo #philippines #hongkong #springwander

#manilatrips Step into the rich tapestry of Manila’s heritage at The Old Binondo Church, where faith and history intertwine in the heart of the city’s vibrant Chinatown. Its timeworn walls and intricate details echo centuries of devotion and cultural exchange, standing as a testament to the enduring spirit of its community. Whether you’re marveling at its classic architecture or seeking a quiet moment of reflection amid the bustling streets, this sacred sanctuary invites you to experience a timeless blend of tradition and resilience. Embrace the stories woven into its fabric and let The Old Binondo Church inspire you.

#HotOverseasPlacesManila🇵🇭 Devisoria area Standing in the heart of Chinatown It was a wonderful Christian church. Please go at least once. I feel like I can get closer to God. Thank you😊

This is the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz — popularly known as Binondo Church. This historical and religious landmark in the heart of the World’s Oldest Chinatown in Ongpin Street, Binondo, Manila was established by the Dominicans in 1596. I have always been fascinated by Minor Basilicas because they share a special bond of communion with the Pope. Thus, you can see the Crossed Keys as a papal symbol and the Vatican Flag, although the Vatican Flag is often seen at Catholic Churches. If a Church such as this receives the special title of a “Minor Basilica”, it is because of its historical value, architectural and artistic worth, antiquity, and significance as a holy place of worship. 😇🇵🇭🇻🇦 #philippines #Asia

#wheretogo Getting There - 1006 Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz, Binondo, Metro Manila, Philippine. Attractions - Binondo Church was founded by Dominican Priests in 1596 to serve the local Chinese who converts to Christianity. The current Church building was the sixth renovated since the first built, after several damaged and destroyed by many reasons. Opening hour: 9:00am to 5:30pm

##spooktaculartrip #tripblazers #fallingforfall