Gang Wars, Secret Networks, and Resilience—Chinatown’s Real Story

Uncover the Stories, Struggles, and Strength of One of NYC’s Most Storied Communities with Chinatown Legacy Tours

Chinatown is a living, breathing chronicle of resilience, rebellion, and reinvention. Emmy Award-winning producer Roger Lee and his partner Bernice Pfluger are on a mission to make sure its stories don’t fade into the shadows. With Chinatown Legacy Tours, they’re cracking open the history books and taking people beyond the dim sum spots and souvenir shops, deep into the heart of one of New York City’s most storied communities.

These tours go beyond the usual walk-and-talk history lessons. They take you through the traditions that built Chinatown, the gang wars that once raged in its alleyways, and the underground networks that shaped its past and present. Whether you’re drawn to the cultural heartbeat of the neighborhood, curious about its hidden underworld, or tired of seeing the same old tourist traps, Chinatown Legacy Tours peels back the layers and lets you step straight into its most compelling, unfiltered stories.

Led by passionate local guides, these tours bring history to life. You’ll walk the same streets as generations before, hear the whispers of old rivalries, and see Chinatown in a way you never have before.

I sat down with Roger and Bernice to dig into their vision, their favorite untold stories, and why now is the time to reclaim Chinatown’s legacy. Meet the Chinatown Legacy Tours.

Julie: Hi Roger and Bernice. Congratulations on your new venture. How exciting! Tell me, what’s the biggest misconception people have about Chinatown’s history?

Roger: Many people think of Chinatown as just a place for dim sum and souvenir shops. While the food is incredible, there’s so much more to it. This neighborhood is a living testament to resilience, shaped by exclusion laws, immigration battles, and a fierce sense of community. People often don’t realize how deeply Chinatown is tied to the broader story of New York City—and America. From labor movements to civil rights, this community has always fought to survive and thrive. It’s not just a tourist destination; it’s a cornerstone of history.

Bernice: I don’t know if people even have a good idea about Chinatown’s history. Many people have a very simplified or stereotyped version of life here. They think of good cheap eats. They think about our lunar new year celebrations. Maybe they come here to buy knock off brand name bags. What they don’t think about is our rich complex history. You can live, work, and play without ever leaving the community. Chinatown had its own unofficial governance, which you can learn more about on the tour.

Julie: So how do you talk about the darker parts of Chinatown’s history, like gang rivalries, without making it sensational?

Roger: Context is key. When we discuss gangs or crime, we don’t focus solely on the violence. We dig into why it happened. These weren’t random acts—they were born out of systemic discrimination, economic hardship, and a lack of opportunities for Chinese immigrants. We tell these stories to educate, not to glorify because there were real world consequences for those involved and for their families too. It’s important to show how these events shaped the community, but they don’t define it. Chinatown is so much more than its struggles.

Julie: Well, If you could change one thing about how people see Chinatown, what would it be?

Roger: When talking about the Chinatown of the 80s and 90s, I’d want people to stop framing Chinatown through the lens of just crime and gangs. It’s frustrating when tour guides—especially those who aren’t from the community and don’t have insight or lived experiences from that era—focus only on that. Yes, there was a time when gangs were part of the story, but it wasn’t just about violence. It was about survival in a system that excluded Chinese immigrants from legal protections and opportunities. When people fixate on just the crime, they miss the bigger picture: the resilience, the culture, and the tight-knit community that’s been the heart of Chinatown for generations.

Julie: What role do you see Chinatown Legacy Tours playing in the community’s future?

Bernice: Our tour takes guests beyond the bustling streets as we explore the stories that have shaped Chinatown into the vibrant neighborhood that it is today. We hope people walk away with a better understanding and appreciation of our cultural roots, and that it inspires them continue building and revitalizing our community.

Roger: We’re more than just a tour company. We’re storytellers, preservers, and advocates. Our goal is to keep Chinatown’s history alive, support local businesses, and challenge stereotypes. In the long run, I see us as a bridge between the past and the future. We want to help younger generations stay connected to their roots while also educating visitors about the deeper, richer stories of Chinatown. It’s about honoring where we’ve been and helping shape where we’re going.

Julie: How about sharing with us one lesser-known event that really changed Chinatown’s trajectory?

Roger: The Hart-Celler Act of 1965 was a game-changer. Before that, immigration laws kept Chinatown’s population small and mostly male. But when the 1965 law opened the doors for more Chinese immigrants, the neighborhood exploded with new life. Families came over, businesses grew, and the community transformed. It reshaped everything—housing, politics, even the dynamics on the streets. That wave of immigration is a huge part of why Chinatown is what it is today.

Julie: Is there a story you haven’t told yet but hope to one day?

Roger: Absolutely. There are so many untold stories in Chinatown. I’d love to shine a light on the unsung heroes—the community leaders, the behind-the-scenes power players, the everyday people who shaped this neighborhood but never made the headlines. Everyone knows the big names, but Chinatown was built by people whose stories didn’t always get written down. Those are the voices I want to bring to life.

Julie: How can people support Chinatown beyond just taking a tour?

Bernice: Explore Chinatown on your own. There are so many other wonderful businesses that aren’t featured on Instagram or TikTok. Support the local mom and pop shops.

Roger: Yes. Support local businesses. Skip the chains and eat at family-run restaurants, shop at Chinatown grocery stores, grab pastries from the bakeries that have been here for decades. Beyond that, take the time to learn about Chinatown’s history and its struggles. The more people understand what this community has been through (9/11, Superstorm Sandy, Covid) —and what it’s up against now—the more they can help ensure its future. It’s about showing up, spending intentionally, and caring about the stories behind the streets.

Learn more about Chinatown Legacy Tours and book a tour with them today.

About Bernice

Born and raised in Chinatown, Bernice spent her weekends with family at both the renowned and hidden gem dim sum houses in the neighborhood. Her childhood was marked by these meals, followed by lively rounds of mahjong. Today, as a storyteller through graphic design, Bernice serves as the art director at a prestigious law firm. She remains dedicated to celebrating her roots by sharing authentic stories through her work and community involvement, ensuring that the rich culture and traditions of her upbringing continue to thrive and be appreciated by new generations.

About Roger

Roger Lee is a five-time Emmy Award-winning producer, journalist, and entrepreneur. Raised in New York’s Chinatown during the 1980s and 90s, he witnessed and navigated the challenges of a community shaped by deep traditions, economic struggles, and a turbulent underworld. He built a career in television production, digital media, and storytelling, working with major networks and leading high-profile projects. As the founder of Chinatown Legacy Tours, he brings history to life through immersive experiences. Passionate about culture, storytelling, and audience engagement, Roger continues to create impactful content across multiple platforms.