Exotic Paris Part I: Asian Influences
Relax
The Pavillion de Paris at 7, rue de Parme (the 9th arr.) is a boutique hotel just two years old, Japanese with its zen design and Chinese with its feng shui décor. Worth a visit if you've got quite a few francs to spare. If your budget is a bit more restrained, you could always pass by the Parc des Buttes-Chaumon for some gentle early morning tai-chi-chaun (Wu style). Sponsored by the Chinese Association of the 13th Arr., you'll find the group every morning at the Allée de la Cascade from 9-11am.
For more of an insider's view on the Asian culture in Paris, read a fantastic eight page article on the Asian portal site GoldSea.com. The author describes the historical, social, and cultural development and growth of the Asian community in Paris, and how it's different from Asian communities in the United States.
UPDATE: February 2001
Here's another great link and reviews for Japanese restaurants.
The Musée Guimet has just re-opened after a year of renovations, featuring an international showcase of Asian art. Over 45000 artifacts from Japan, Korea, Nepal, Tibet, and India. Between Jan. 25 and April 1, the museum hosts an exhibit of 150 objects from the Asia of Alexander the Great to Gengis Khan.
Find Japanese books, magazines, and Hello Kitty products at the Japanese Bookstore, Bunkado. On rue Augustin just outside Metro Quatre Septembre.
The only sake store in Europe is right in the heart of Paris. Fugi Saki Cave, 8 rue Thérèse 75001.
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