London's Chinese quarter occupies a fairly tight spot, hemmed in by Leicester Square, Shaftesbury Avenue, Wardour Street and Charing Cross Road. Entered through large oriental gateways, Gerrard Street lies at the centre of this colourful district, striking for the exoticism of its restaurants, supermarkets, shops, Chinese medicine specialists, travel agents etc. It is also the backdrop for Chinese New Year celebrations (in January or February).