Museum of Chinese Australian History
Many people know that Australia has a growing Asian population, but fewer people are aware of the history behind this immigration. Fewer people are knowledgable about the many examples of Asian culture which continue to enrich Australian multiculturalism.
The Museum of Chinese Australian History is well worth a visit. It's located at 22 Cohen Place in the centre of the city. If you look at your map, you will find it quite easily near Little Bourke Street. Their timetable is relatively predictable. Its open most days from 10am-5pm excluding Good Friday, Christmas Day and New Years Day. It also has special events in honor of Chinese festivals and Chinese New Year. You can contact the venue or check out the website for more details.
Little Bourke street is actually the centre of Melbourne's Chinatown in the CBD. This is accessible to visitors on foot. You can admire the unique Asian- themed streets, absorb the smells from nearby cooking in restaurants, taste a variety of Asian delicacies, explore Asian markets, and listen to music playing in Asian giftshops. Historic Asian buildings on the street have plaques and signs in places to explain history. Winding side streets leading off of it are also worth a meander.
During the year, a range of different festivals are worth taking in, like the Asian Food Festival, the Chinese New Year Dragon parade and festival fireworks. Buildings in CBD Chinatown are comparable to those you can find in the outer city suburb of Springvale. This is where larger Chinese Temples and funeral homes and cemeteries are located. You can visit those too. The museum staff can also help point you in the direction of specific Asian venues of interest in and around Melbourne.
See also http://www.chinesemuseum.com.au
