Melbourne Chinatown Historical Walking Experience
Experience Melbourne's Fascinating Chinatown Stories on a Historic Tour

Victoria
people
1 participant
hours
- • Explore the Dark Side of Melbourne's Chinatown
- • Experience a 2-Hour Journey through Time
- • Discover the Most Intriguing Tales from Original Police Files
Why We Love This Unique Experience
Embark on a fascinating journey through time to Melbourne's Chinatown, spanning from the 1850s to the 1950s. Witness captivating images of original gambling tools projected onto the exact buildings from which they were seized over a century ago. Delve into the tales of police crackdowns on illicit activities like opium dens and illegal gambling, as well as gripping stories of the district's former denizens, scandals, gang rivalries, and corruption within the police force. With over 15 years of meticulous research into Melbourne's Chinatown using authentic police archives, your guide ensures an authentic and immersive experience. This gripping narrative covers opium trade, secret gambling parlors, underground bars, extortion schemes, riots, and the dark underbelly of police misconduct.
Join the tour at the Exford Hotel's sidewalk tables, located on Russell Street, to kick off this enthralling two-hour exploration of Melbourne's Chinatown. Uncover the rich history of Little Bourke Street, home to the oldest Chinese settlement outside Asia, where many original structures still stand, each with its own compelling history. Your experience includes a dynamic visual presentation utilizing a handheld laser projector and expert guidance throughout the journey. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking an engaging and unique adventure, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era of Melbourne's storied past.
This immersive journey through Melbourne's Chinatown makes for an unforgettable gift for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, or anyone with a fascination for the hidden tales of times past. Delve into the intricate web of events that shaped this historic enclave, brought to life through vivid storytelling and compelling visuals. Treat a loved one to the gift of discovery and intrigue with this distinctive experience, offering a window into a world teeming with secrets, conflicts, and the colorful tapestry of Melbourne's multicultural heritage.
Points Of Interest and Landmarks
- Chinatown
- 199 Russell St
Check Availability & Book
Experience Overview:
Old Stories Of Melbourne's ChinatownCome on an amazing trip back in time to Melbourne's Chinatown from c.1850s to the 1950s. Receive a free tour booklet with images of the characters discussed, original police-drawn crime maps, confiscated gambling paraphernalia and other evidence from 100+ years ago. Hear the stories of police raids for opium, illegal gambling, and other lawbreaking activities. Hear stories of blackmail, gang war, and police corruption. Your tour guide has been researching Melbourne's Chinatown via the original police files for over 15 years and delivers the old stories from original source material. Opium, gambling, speakeasies, blackmail, riots, police corruption.
Meeting Point
199 Russell St
199 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
The tour leaves from the footpath tables of the Exford Hotel.
What's included:
- Professional Guide
- A free tour book containing photos of the characters discussed, police-drawn maps etc.
What to expect:
Duration: 2 hours
Chinatown
Little Bourke Street, Melbourne, Victoria
Melbourne's Chinatown is the longest continuous Chinese settlement in the Western world. A high percentage of the older buildings still exist and each has its stories.
2 hours • Admission Ticket Included
Details & Important Info
Additional Experience Details & Important Information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellations & Refunds
Reservation Changes, Cancellations & Refunds
Changes to reservations for tickets can be made until 3 days prior to the date scheduled. Reservations may be re-scheduled by the operator of the activity due to reasons such as weather, minimum participation requirements, mechanical issues or other interruptions beyond their control.
Organized by
Melbourne Historical Crime Tours
Product SKU: AU-12078-0003
Google Business Profile: Melbourne Historical Crime Tours
Melbourne Chinatown Historical Night Tour
Victoria
people
1 participant
hours
- • Explore the Dark Side of Melbourne's Chinatown
- • Experience a 2-Hour Journey through Time
- • Discover the Most Intriguing Tales from Original Police Files
Best Experience Providers
Our Activity Partners are highly rated and experts in what they do, guaranteeing you an unforgettable experience.
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