The Liberdade neighborhood is a tourist area in central São Paulo. It is known as the largest stronghold of the Japanese community in the city, which is considered to be the largest community in the world outside Japan.
Japanese immigration to Brazil began in 1908, with the arrival of the Kasato Maru ship in the port of Santos. Liberdade began to be characterized as a typical oriental neighbourhood in 1912, when the first visitors began to settle in Rua Conde de Sarzedas.
Today, Liberdade is not exclusive to the Japanese. In addition to them, Koreans and Chinese began to occupy the area and the neighborhood gained oriental status, not just Japanese. As a result, the neighborhood has come to be known as the capital’s oriental stronghold.
What to do in Liberdade: our guide to SP’s most Asian neighborhood
Among the neighborhood’s attractions are typical restaurants and bakeries, as well as stores and bookstores selling items from Japan and other Asian countries. Other particularities that attract visitors are the unique architecture, with traditional Japanese lanterns adorning most of the streets in the area. As well as the large portico (torii), both located on Rua Galvão Bueno.
There are so many options that it’s ideal to visit Bairro da Liberdade several times and not see everything! Here are some options to help you plan your tour.
Busshinji Temple
A highlight of the area is the Busshinji Temple, a representative of the Zen Buddhist community of the Soto Shu tradition. It was founded in 1955 by High Abbot Rosen Takashina, who came to Brazil at the request of Asian immigrants who wanted a temple on São Paulo soil where they could practice their faith.
As explained on his Instagram account, the temple is not open to the general public. However, it does offer various activities related to Buddhism, free or at low prices, which are open to anyone who wants to take part.
On Saturdays, for example, the temple offers Zazen, a kind of Buddhist meditation. To take part, all you have to do is contribute R$10 and go there wearing dark-colored, loose-fitting and discreet clothes. More information here.
📍 São Joaquim, 285
Japanese karaoke
For those who like to sing, traditional Japanese karaoke bars are the best option. These venues usually have cozy, private, soundproof rooms where you can let your voice out without fear or distractions.
An example of Asian karaoke in Liberdade is Tequila’s Karaoke. With an atmosphere full of neon lights, it’s the perfect place for a cool and super Instagrammable hangout.
📍 Rua da Glória, 543
Liberty Market
What you can’t miss on your visit, of course, is the Feira da Liberdade. This famous street market always takes place at weekends and is free to enter. There you can find decorations, oriental objects and the best street food.
📍 Liberdade Square
Tanabata Matsuri
The Liberdade district is also home to traditional events such as the Tanabata Matsuri (Star Festival). The traditional Japanese festival always takes place in July, allowing you to immerse yourself even more in the culture of the Asian country. Musical performances, typical dances, gastronomy and much more!
Asian markets
Finally, for those who want to venture into the flavors of China, Korea and Japan, the Liberdade district has a series of Asian markets. As well as a delicious gastronomic experience, it’s also a great opportunity to get to know this culture more closely, with exclusive Asian products.
