Chinatown
The oldest Chinatown in North America and one of the most significant outside of Asia, this neighborhood offers a vibrant cultural experience. As you walk through the Dragon Gate on Grant Avenue, you’re transported into a lively neighborhood filled with colorful lanterns, bustling markets, and the aroma of traditional Chinese food. There’s no shortage of things to do and see in this vibrant neighborhood.
Things to do and see!
Dragon’s Gate—Begin your journey at the iconic Dragon’s Gate at Grant Avenue and Bush Street, the southern entrance to Chinatown. This popular spot for photos symbolizes your entry into a lively neighborhood full of rich history.
Explore Grant Avenue and Stockton Street—Grant Avenue is Chinatown’s main tourist street, lined with red lanterns, shops, and tea houses. Stockton Street offers a more local experience, with authentic grocery markets, herbal shops, and bakeries catering to the local community.
Portsmouth Square—the “heart of Chinatown,” where you’ll find locals practicing Tai Chi, playing chess, and socializing. It’s a historic spot, too, where the American flag was first raised in San Francisco in 1846.
Chinese Temples—Tin How Temple on Waverly Place is one of the oldest Taoist temples in the U.S. Visitors can explore its rich decor of incense, lanterns, and statues. Another interesting site is Tien Hau Temple, which is dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea and protector of sailors.
Chinatown Alleys—The narrow alleys of Chinatown hold secret gems. Ross Alley, where the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory is located, is one of the most famous. Another historic spot is Waverly Place, the “street of painted balconies,” where you can appreciate the architecture and vibrant facades. Location: 56 Ross Alley.
Chinatown’s Markets and Shops—known for its eclectic shops filled with jade, silk, ceramics, and antiques. The herbal shops offer a wide array of traditional Chinese medicines, teas, and remedies. The unique goods and exotic ingredients are fascinating, even if you’re just browsing.
Chinese Historical Society of America Museum—Learn about the history and cultural contributions of Chinese Americans at this museum. It houses exhibits on immigration, Chinese American life in the U.S., and art and is a great place for deeper insight into the area’s history.
Chinatown Festivals
If you visit during the Lunar New Year, you’re in for a treat. The Chinese New Year Parade, held in February or March, is one of the largest outside of Asia. Dragon dancers, fireworks, and performances fill the streets with excitement.