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Museum of Chinese in America

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 90 min.

Ages: All

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Chinese-American history and culture. The museum is located in New York City's Chinatown neighborhood and houses a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and artwork that tell the story of Chinese immigration to the United States. Visitors to MOCA can explore exhibits that chronicle the struggles and triumphs of Chinese immigrants, from the building of the transcontinental railroad to the experiences of Chinese Americans during World War II. The museum also offers a glimpse into the vibrant cultural life of Chinese communities in the United States, with exhibits on Chinese-American art, music, and cuisine. MOCA also hosts a range of educational and cultural events, including lectures, workshops, and performances. Visitors can participate in tours, programs, and special events to deepen their understanding of Chinese-American history and culture.

215 Centre St, New York, NY 10013 Get Directions





Museum of Chinese in America Videos

MOCA’s Capital Campaign for a Home is a generational opportunity for MOCA to boldly claim its place within the American cultural narrative and safeguard the stories, legacies, and experiences of the Chinese in America. In the wake of a three-story five alarm fire in January 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic, and increased anti-Chinese bigotry, MOCA’s place within the cultural landscape is more important and urgent than ever. An updated and expanded national Museum of Chinese in America will make a defiant and celebratory statement in the fight against anti-Asian discrimination and ensure the museum’s sustainability within the New York cultural landscape. For the first time, MOCA is uniting the visionary designs of artist and architect, Maya Lin, with the cutting-edge innovation of Ralph Applebaum Associates to revolutionize a museum that integrates the past, present, and future aspirations of the Chinese American journey. This collaboration will result in an icon in New York City and will propel MOCA to new heights as a museum of conscience that is transnational in scope and impact. Begin the journey home with MOCA.

There are many misconceptions, stigmas, and stereotypes regarding mental health among AANHPI communities, and many of these beliefs are culturally based. Generational differences on mental health, particularly the stigma of mental illness, also impact knowledge and utilization of effective treatments. In our discussion of mental health across generations, we aim to describe differences amongst age groups and generational status, provide resources for support and treatment, and share strategies for discussing this often-difficult topic with family and friends. This panel discussion was conducted in Mandarin Chinese, followed by a Q&A session. 在亞裔美國人和太平洋島民社群裡對心理健康仍存有許多誤解、污名和刻板印象,這些偏見往往是我們文化的延伸。心理健康的世代差異,特別是對於精神疾病的污名,影響了對有效治療的認知和運用。在此次針對跨世代心理健康的討論,我們將探討不同年齡層和不同世代的差異,對此提供治療和協助上的資源,以及在和親朋好友討論這些難以啟齒的議題上的相關策略。此次的線上會談以中文進行,會談後有即席問答。

In light of recent tragedies in California and the impact on the Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders community, MOCA was honored to invite Psychiatrist Dr. Annie S. Li, Mental Health Counselor Adeline Zhao, and Licensed Creative Arts Therapist Mika Lee to join us for a panel discussion on mental health. In this panel discussion, we discussed what mental health is, how we evaluate our mental health, how we offer support to our friends and family who are concerned with their mental health, and, most importantly, how to access psychological/psychiatric services and resources. This program was moderated by Dennis Yueh-Yeh Li, MOCA Director of Performance, Storytelling & Community.

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) presented its featured MOCA TALKS speaker, Margaret M. Chin, Professor of Sociology at CUNY Hunter College and the Graduate Center and author of "Stuck: Why Asian Americans Don’t Reach the Top of the Corporate Ladder." In the classroom, Asian Americans, often singled out as so-called “model minorities,” are expected to be top of the class. Often they are, getting straight As and gaining admission to elite colleges and universities. But the corporate world is a different story. As Prof. Chin reveals in this important new book, many Asian Americans get stuck on the corporate ladder, never reaching the top. In Stuck, Prof. Chin shows that there is a “bamboo ceiling” in the workplace, describing a corporate world where racial and ethnic inequalities prevent upward mobility. Drawing on interviews with second-generation Asian Americans, she examines why they fail to advance as fast or as high as their colleagues, showing how they lose out on leadership positions, executive roles, and entry to the coveted boardroom suite over the course of their careers. An unfair lack of trust from their coworkers, absence of role models, sponsors and mentors, and for women, sexual harassment and prejudice especially born at the intersection of race and gender are only a few of the factors that hold Asian American professionals back. Ultimately, Prof. Chin shed light on the experiences of Asian Americans in the workplace, providing insight into and a framework of who is and isn’t granted access into the upper echelons of American society, and why. This program was moderated by Nancy Yao, MOCA President.

Keep your lucky ✨ streak going right up until the Lantern Festival 🏮 with MOCACREATE at Home! Watch to learn all about the decorative Chinese knots we see during Lunar New Year 🐰 and follow along to tie your very own “double coin knot” for extra good luck this year! 🤩 Share your lucky knots by tagging #MOCANYC and #MOCACREATEathome on social media, DMing us @mocanyc, or emailing education@mocanyc.org! #lunarnewyear #yearoftherabbit #春节 #新年 #新年快乐 #chineseamerican #asianamerican #chinatown #museum #museumfromhome #museumathome #diy

Every year since 2010, when their Pocket Chinese Almanac launched at MOCA, authors Joanna C. Lee and Ken Smith have been relating day-by-day forecasts deeply rooted in Chinese culture. January 25—the fourth day of the Year of the Rabbit—is considered an auspicious day: a day to welcome the Kitchen God as he returns from heaven to earth. Families burn incense and light candles to welcome the gods, and prepare fruits, alcohol, fish, chicken, and pork for their meals on this day. As we all look forward to smoother, healthier, more harmonious times, join us for a glimpse of what the Chinese almanac has to say about 2023 and the preparations and protections we may need. The traditional Chinese almanac, known as the Tong Sing in Cantonese or Huang Li in Mandarin, is a centuries-old repository of cultural information, from household tips to general medical remedies. But it’s the almanac’s predictions of which days are auspicious or ominous for a wide range of activities that has made the annual publication a mainstay in Chinese homes.

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Museum of Chinese in America News

The Museum of Chinese in America Launches Performing Artist Residency Program

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) announced their performing artist residency program, with the theme of Heteroglossia, in response to MOCA’s new exhibition, Magazine Fever: Gen X Asian American Periodicals.

Staged Reading Of TOMORROW, BY THE SEA To Be Presented at Museum of Chinese in America

A developmental reading of the new musical TOMORROW, BY THE SEA will be held on September 7 at the Museum of Chinese in America. Learn how to attend.

The Museum of Chinese in America To Performance CATCHING SILHOUETTES: Street Performance

The Museum of Chinese in America will present a unique outdoor interactive performance program, “MOCA Performs – Catching Silhouettes: An Oral History Street Performance,” to bring oral histories and personal stories to life in the streets of Chinatown in May to celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month.

MOCA to Present Outdoor Interactive Performance CATCHING SILHOUETTES

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) will present a unique outdoor interactive performance program, 'MOCA Performs - Catching Silhouettes. Learn more about the event and see how to purchase tickets!

MOCA Reveals 2024 MOCA FEST to Celebrate Lunar New Year

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) announced its 2024 MOCA FEST, an annual celebration of the Lunar New Year with programming for all ages. This Lunar New Year, the Year of the Wood Dragon, starts on February 10, 2024, and the museum will host activities for all ages from February 1, 2024, through February 29, 2024.

Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company And Asian American Arts Alliance Present AAPI Dance Festival At APAP

Join the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company and Asian American Arts Alliance (A4) for an exciting AAPI dance festival at APAP.

Museum Of Chinese In America Presents Opens Its 5 SENSES OF CHINATOWN Exhibition To The Public

Yesterday, The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA), the cultural hub in Chinatown known for preserving and documenting the Chinese-American diaspora dating back to the 1900s, opened its new exhibition, '5 Senses of Chinatown,' in partnership with students in the community.

Chelsea Table + Stage to Present the Return of Electroacoustic Duo ARKAI in December

CHELSEA TABLE + STAGE will present the return of the award-winning electroacoustic duo ARKAI on Sunday, December 3 at 7:00 PM.

Fisher Center at Bard to Host Groundbreaking Concert for New Building Designed by Maya Lin

Discover the groundbreaking concert held at Fisher Center at Bard to commemorate the new architectural masterpiece designed by renowned architect Maya Lin. Get all the details on the concert date, and learn more about the innovative design of the new building.

Boston Ballet Announces Ming Min Hui As Executive Director

Boston Ballet Board of Trustees Chair Jack Meyer and Artistic Director Mikko Nissinen announce the appointment of Ming Min Hui as Executive Director.

Museum of Chinese in America to Present Outdoor Performance Program Celebrating Chinatown's History and Culture

Explore the immersive outdoor performance program 'MOCA Performs - Passage: A Walk of Chinatown Stories' by the Museum of Chinese in America.

MOCA Cinema Presents NEVER FADE AWAY In Honor Of National Immigrant Heritage Month

As the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) has been hosting a wide range of programming to celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month this May, June marks National Immigrant Heritage Month. In a similar manner, the museum will honor the contributions of immigrants to our great nation and acknowledge their profound impact.

J Chen Project's AAPI Heroes: Myths and Legends Opens at MOCA

J CHEN PROJECT world premiere of AAPI HEROES: MYTHS AND LEGENDS opens tonight! Directed and choreographed by Jessica Chen, the production runs through March 31 at the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA), located at 215 Centre Street in New York City.

Atlanta Chinese Dance Company to Present WE BELONG HERE: RISING AGAINST ASIAN HATE

Atlanta Chinese Dance Company is  celebrating the humanity of the Chinese community and amplifies the history and solidarity of past and present Asian American civil rights movements through an original production We Belong Here: Rising Against Asian Hate on April 15-16 at Gas South Theater.


Museum of Chinese in America Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to Museum of Chinese in America

The closest subway stops to the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) at 215 Centre St in New York City are:

1. Canal Street Station: This station is served by the J, N, Q, R, W, Z, and 6 trains. It is located just a short walk away from MOCA.

2. Grand Street Station: This station is served by the B and D trains. It is also within walking distance of the museum.

Both of these subway stations are conveniently located and will make it easy for you to reach MOCA.

While you're in the area, I recommend exploring the vibrant neighborhood of Chinatown. You can take a stroll through the bustling streets, browse the markets, and sample delicious Chinese cuisine.

Here are a few recommendations for restaurants in Chinatown:

1. Nom Wah Tea Parlor: This historic dim sum restaurant has been serving delicious dumplings since 1920. Don't miss their famous shrimp dumplings and pork buns. [Nom Wah Tea Parlor](https://nomwah.com/)

2. Joe's Shanghai: Known for their soup dumplings, Joe's Shanghai is a popular spot for authentic Chinese cuisine. Be prepared for a wait, as it can get crowded. [Joe's Shanghai](http://www.joeshanghairestaurants.com/)

3. Xi'an Famous Foods: If you're in the mood for spicy and flavorful dishes, Xi'an Famous Foods is a must-visit. Try their hand-pulled noodles and cumin-spiced lamb burgers. [Xi'an Famous Foods](https://www.xianfoods.com/)

Make sure to check the MTA website for any subway updates or changes in service before you travel. You can find the latest information [here](http://www.mta.info/). Enjoy your visit to MOCA and your time in Chinatown!


What's the best way to get to Museum of Chinese in America by bus?

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) is located at 215 Centre St in New York City. The closest bus stops to the museum are:

1. Centre St/Grand St: This bus stop is served by the M9 bus. You can check for updates on the M9 bus schedule [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index;jsessionid=9C6F8A0D8C0A5F6D9F7B9C5A7F2D6F5D?q=402053).

2. Centre St/Broome St: This bus stop is served by the M103 bus. You can check for updates on the M103 bus schedule [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index;jsessionid=9C6F8A0D8C0A5F6D9F7B9C5A7F2D6F5D?q=402052).

Please note that bus schedules are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates closer to your visit. Enjoy your time at the Museum of Chinese in America!


How much time should I plan to spend at Museum of Chinese in America?

The ideal length of time to plan for a visit to the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) in New York City depends on your level of interest in Chinese history and culture. On average, visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the museum's exhibits and galleries.

If you have a general interest in Chinese culture and history, allocating 1 to 1.5 hours should give you enough time to see the main highlights and get a good overview of the museum's collection. This includes exploring the permanent exhibits that showcase Chinese-American history, art, and artifacts.

However, if you have a specific interest in Chinese history or if you enjoy delving deeper into museum exhibits, you may want to allocate a bit more time. Spending 2 hours or more will allow you to thoroughly explore the museum, read the detailed information provided, and engage with interactive displays.

Additionally, MOCA often hosts special exhibitions and events, so if there is something specific you want to see or participate in, it's worth checking their website or calling ahead to plan your visit accordingly.

Remember, the ideal length of time can vary from person to person, so feel free to adjust your visit based on your own interests and schedule. Enjoy your time at the Museum of Chinese in America!


Can I bring food and drinks into Museum of Chinese in America?

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) in New York City does not have a specific food or drink policy. However, it is always a good idea to check with the museum staff before bringing any food or drinks inside. In general, most museums prefer that visitors refrain from consuming food or beverages in exhibition areas to help preserve the artwork and artifacts on display. MOCA does have a gift shop where you can find snacks and drinks if you need a quick refreshment during your visit.


Does Museum of Chinese in America offer luggage storage?

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) in New York City does not have a luggage storage facility on-site. However, there are several options available nearby where you can securely store your belongings while you visit the museum.

One convenient option is to use a luggage storage service. There are various companies in the city that offer this service, allowing you to drop off your bags at a designated location and pick them up later. Some popular luggage storage services include LuggageHero, Vertoe, and Schwartz Luggage Storage. These services typically have multiple locations throughout the city, including near popular tourist attractions like MOCA.

Another option is to check if your hotel offers luggage storage for its guests. Many hotels in New York City have this service, allowing you to store your bags with them even if you have already checked out. If you are staying at a hotel, it's worth contacting the front desk to inquire about their luggage storage policy.

Lastly, if you are traveling with larger suitcases or bags, you may want to consider using a traditional luggage storage facility. These facilities are specifically designed for storing luggage and are often located near transportation hubs like Penn Station or Grand Central Terminal. Some examples of luggage storage facilities in the city include Schwartz Luggage Storage, City CoPilot, and Luggage Keeper.

Remember to always check the specific policies and prices of these services before utilizing them, as they may vary. It's also a good idea to plan ahead and make arrangements for luggage storage to ensure a smooth and hassle-free visit to MOCA and other attractions in the city.


Is Museum of Chinese in America a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Yes, the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) in New York City is definitely worth a visit for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. MOCA is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history, heritage, and culture of Chinese Americans. It offers a unique and immersive experience that can be appreciated by people from all backgrounds.

While English is the primary language used in the museum, MOCA strives to make its exhibits accessible to non-English speakers as well. Many of the exhibits feature bilingual signage, providing information in both English and Chinese. Additionally, the museum offers guided tours in multiple languages, including Mandarin, Cantonese, and Spanish. These tours can be a great way for non-English speakers to fully understand and appreciate the exhibits.

MOCA also hosts a variety of cultural programs and events throughout the year, including workshops, performances, and lectures. These events often showcase Chinese arts, crafts, music, and dance, providing a rich cultural experience for visitors.

Overall, the Museum of Chinese in America offers a valuable and engaging experience for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. It allows them to learn about the history and contributions of Chinese Americans while immersing themselves in the vibrant culture of New York City.


What ages are appropriate for Museum of Chinese in America?

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) in New York City is a fantastic cultural institution that offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all ages. While there is no strict age range recommendation, the museum's exhibits and programs are generally designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages, including children and families.

MOCA offers a variety of exhibits that explore the rich history, art, and culture of Chinese Americans. These exhibits often feature interactive elements, multimedia presentations, and hands-on activities that can be enjoyed by visitors of different ages and interests.

Additionally, the museum regularly organizes family-friendly events and workshops that cater specifically to younger visitors. These events provide a fun and educational experience for children to learn about Chinese American history and culture.

Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, or simply curious about the Chinese American experience, the Museum of Chinese in America is a must-visit destination in New York City for visitors of all ages.


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