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Asian Art Museum: A Journey Through Asian Art and Culture
Explore 6,000 years of Asian art and culture at San Francisco's Asian Art Museum, home to a world-renowned collection.
The Asian Art Museum in San Francisco houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Asian art in the world, with over 18,000 artworks spanning 6,000 years of history. Showcasing art from all major Asian countries and traditions, the museum offers a glimpse into the diverse cultures of Asia.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Asian Art Museum
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
10 am-5 pm
Thursday
1 pm-8 pm
Friday
10 am-5 pm
Saturday
10 am-5 pm
Sunday
10 am-5 pm
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Getting There
Public Transport
The Asian Art Museum is easily accessible by public transportation. Take BART or Muni to the Civic Center/UN Plaza Station. Follow the signs to the UN Plaza exit. Walk past the Simón Bolívar statue and cross Hyde Street onto Fulton Street. Turn right on Larkin Street, and the museum will be on your right. A single ride on BART within San Francisco costs approximately $2.10-$3.70. Muni fares are $2.50 per ride.
Walking
From Union Square, walk southwest on Market Street towards Powell Street. Turn right onto Hyde Street and walk north for several blocks. Turn left onto Fulton Street, then right onto Larkin Street. The museum will be on your right. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and takes about 30 minutes.
Taxi/Ride-sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Francisco. A short ride from Union Square to the Asian Art Museum typically costs $10-$15, depending on traffic and demand.
Parking
Several parking garages are located near the Asian Art Museum. The Civic Center Garage (355 McAllister Street) and the UC Hastings College of Law Garage (376 Larkin Street) are within one block of the museum. Parking rates vary, but typically range from $4 per 2 hours at Market Square Garage to $25-$60. Limited metered street parking is also available.
Local tips
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Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free admission.
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Take public transportation to avoid parking hassles.
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Download the museum's mobile app for a self-guided tour.
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Check the museum's website for daily tour schedules and special events.
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Start your visit on the third floor to view the permanent collection galleries.
Discover more about Asian Art Museum
Located in San Francisco's Civic Center, the Asian Art Museum invites visitors to explore the rich and diverse cultures of Asia through its extensive collection. The museum's collection includes more than 18,000 artworks spanning 6,000 years, representing major Asian countries and traditions.
The museum originated from a donation by Avery Brundage, a collector of Asian art. Initially housed in Golden Gate Park, the museum moved to its current location in 2003, in the former San Francisco Public Library. The building, a Beaux-Arts structure, was renovated to house the museum.
The museum's galleries showcase art from South Asia, Iran, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, the Himalayas, China, Korea, and Japan. Visitors can explore sculptures, paintings, ceramics, and other art forms. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, showcasing contemporary Asian art and exploring the influence of Asian culture. Free guided tours are available daily.
The Asian Art Museum aims to promote understanding and appreciation of Asian art and culture. It serves as a platform for cultural exchange and collaboration, connecting people of different backgrounds.
A brief summary to Asian Art Museum
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