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The Second Home of Jews in Asia

by Kosher River Cruise Kosher Tour Operator
For around two thousand years, some Jews have been calling Asia home. From Mumbai, Kochi, Calcutta, Singapore, Kobe, to Hong Kong, there are Jewish communities in places you won't expect. 

The history of the Jewish people was long established. There are even Jewish communities that were there since medieval times. 

Until today, they are creating history and representing Jews all over the world in the best ways. They are such a joy to their second homes that the countries that adopted them established diplomatic relations with Israel. 

The impact created by Jews in these foreign countries can now be considered as exciting destinations for anyone who seeks to learn about the rich history of the Jews. And there is no doubt that these destinations are a must-see during Jewish heritage tours.

Check out these places in Asia that happily houses Jewish communities.


China

One of the oldest Jewish communities in Asia was established in Kaifeng back during medieval times. While most of the Jews in China have made their way home in Israel, the architectural wonders of Jewish influence can still be seen today. Today, the Jewish community with the most number of people is in Shanghai.

Over 20,000 people live there today since they sought refuge from Nazi persecution during the Second World War. You can still see the Ohel Moshe Synagogue in the Jewish Ghetto in Shanghai. 

A quick walk through the city and you'll easily get immersed in the heart of the city and how Jewish communities helped in raising Shanghai into what it is today.

Thailand

The Jewish community in Thailand was first established during the 1920s when the Jews in Soviet Russia were looking for a better home. 

Before the Second World War broke out, Jews in Europe made their way to Bangkok and at that time, the Jewish community only grew larger. Creating a path of their own and impact in the country was not easy, but they came through nevertheless.

The Jewish community in Thailand was officially established around 1966 when the first Synagogue in Thailand was built. This representation in Thailand was known all over the world for their penchant for jewelry and precious stones. 

Today, the Jewish community in Thailand mainly accommodates Jewish travelers all over the world. Showing their brothers and sisters from other countries the beauty of Thailand and why they chose to call this country their second home.

Vietnam

It was believed that the Jews first came to Vietnam after the French colonization took effect in the country during later parts of the 19th century. 

The Jewish Chronicle even records the growth of Jewish settlers in Saigon from the 1860s to 1870s. By 1956, there were more than 1,500 of them there.

Today, much like Thailand, the Jewish community in Vietnam established a Chabad Center in the economic heart of the country in Ho Chi Minh City. Thousands visit the Chabad every year, coming from Israel, the United States, and other countries. 


All these places should definitely be placed on top of the list when speaking of Jewish heritage tours. When you go to a Jewish cruise or a simple Kosher getaway with your family, make sure to drop by and say hi to the Jewish communities in these countries. The embrace may be familiar, but the experiences will be a pleasant surprise.


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Joined APSense since, June 8th, 2017, From California, United States.

Created on Apr 30th 2019 22:35. Viewed 283 times.

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