The inauguration of the paifang on October 1 is a perfect excuse to explore on foot the route connecting Madrid Río with the heart of Usera. The route is marked with features designed to make the walk more enjoyable and can easily be completed in a morning or afternoon.

What you’ll find along the way

• Decorative pavement tiles featuring carp and translated proverbs.
• An interactive Chinese zodiac where you can find the animal corresponding to your birth year.
• A dragon-shaped playground, an essential stop if you’re visiting with children.
• The Two Cultures in Love arch in Plaza del Hidrógeno, marking the end of the route.

Where to stop

The final stretch is where you’ll find most of the neighbourhood’s offerings: restaurants, bakeries and pastry shops, supermarkets and bazaars, tea houses and specialist stores.

Many of them are part of the Chinatown Madrid Tourism Quality Distinction programme, which recognises establishments committed to service quality, accessibility and sustainability.

Recommendations

• It’s a free activity, with no registration required and no fixed opening hours.
• Arriving at the arch in the late afternoon offers good light for photos and puts you there just in time for dinner.
• Take Metro Line 6 to Usera or Plaza Elíptica; the area is also served by several EMT bus routes.