The first Chinese settlement in London traces its roots back to the shipping trade relationship between the UK and China, where the Chinese sailors established the first Chinatown in Limehouse. The second Chinatown in Soho began as the New Territories reinforced their old friendship in a new country. The Museum of the Oriental Odyssey provides a historic journey and immersive experience that provide understanding of Limehouse’s original Chinese settlement in London and its historical significance. Using the word ‘Oriental’ allows the museum to be culturally inclusive, and to reflect on the Chinese settlement where the project is sited through a journey from East to West by way of the East India Company.

The museum consists of six phases: Shuttle Boat to Limehouse; History of Limehouse; New Territories Community; Trading; Hybrid Clubhouse; and a Tour around the canal. Each phase reflects the timeline of the Chinese settlement in London, allowing visitors to be immersed and experience the story of a Chinese migrant. As part of the experience, canal boats are used to transport visitors in and out of the museum, celebrating the canal being the transit point for Chinese migrants.