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. From ancient sculptures to contemporary video installations, the museum offers a rich and diverse cultural experience.
A brief summary to Asian Art Museum
- 200 Larkin St, San Francisco, Civic Center, California, 94102, US
- +1415-581-3500
- Visit website
- 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
Local tips
- Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free general admission.
- Take public transportation, as parking can be limited and expensive.
- Download the museum's mobile app for a self-guided tour.
- Check the museum's website for information on current exhibitions and events.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's collection.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Union Square, take the F-Line streetcar or the K, L, M, N, J, or T underground Muni lines to the Civic Center Station. The museum is located across the street from the station. Alternatively, several bus lines, including the 5, 9, 14, 19, 21, 26, 31, 47, and 49, stop near the Civic Center. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00.
-
Walking
From City Hall, walk south on Larkin Street. The museum will be on your right, directly across from the Helen Diller Civic Center Playgrounds. The walk is short and straightforward.
-
Taxi/Ride-sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A short ride from Union Square to the Asian Art Museum typically costs $10-$15, depending on traffic and demand.
Discover more about Asian Art Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
United Nations Plaza Fountain
0.2 km
Discover tranquility at the United Nations Plaza Fountain in San Francisco, a vibrant cultural hub and a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.
Statue of Abraham Lincoln
0.3 km
Discover the inspiring Statue of Abraham Lincoln in San Francisco's Civic Center, a must-visit for history lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
San Francisco City Hall
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of San Francisco City Hall, a stunning landmark in the heart of the city.
The Shortest Street in San Francisco
0.6 km
Stroll down San Francisco's shortest street in the Fillmore District, a unique historical landmark offering a charming glimpse into the city's quirky urban landscape and vibrant local culture.
Rothschild House
0.7 km
Discover the Rothschild House in San Francisco's Fillmore District, a beautifully preserved Italianate landmark offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and architectural heritage.
Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King
0.8 km
Visit the Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King in San Francisco, a tribute to the influential Unitarian minister and orator who helped keep California in the Union during the Civil War, located at the First Unitarian Universalist Society.
The San Francisco Mint
0.8 km
Discover San Francisco's 'Granite Lady,' a historic mint transformed into a premier event venue, offering a glimpse into the Gold Rush era and a unique space for unforgettable gatherings.
Cable Car Turnaround Powell St.
0.9 km
Discover the iconic Cable Car Turnaround at Powell Street, a historical landmark that showcases San Francisco's rich transportation heritage and vibrant urban culture.
Flood Building
1.0 km
Experience San Francisco history at the Flood Building, a Beaux-Arts landmark in Union Square, offering stunning architecture and a glimpse into the city's vibrant past.
The Samuels Clock
1.0 km
A historic San Francisco landmark on Market Street, the Samuels Clock has stood since 1915, witnessing the city's evolution and embodying its enduring spirit.
Powell St & Geary St
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant intersection of Powell and Geary in San Francisco, a hub for shopping, dining, and urban culture.
Union Square
1.1 km
Explore the vibrant heart of San Francisco at Union Square, a historic landmark surrounded by shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Dewey Monument
1.1 km
Explore the Dewey Monument in Union Square, a historical sculpture honoring valor and offering a vibrant backdrop to San Francisco's bustling city life.
Monument to American Squadron, Manila Bay
1.1 km
A historic landmark in Union Square, San Francisco, commemorating Admiral Dewey's victory at Manila Bay and offering a glimpse into a pivotal moment in American and Philippine history.
Hearts of San Francico Art Sculpture
1.2 km
Discover the iconic Hearts of San Francisco in Union Square: a vibrant public art display supporting local artists and Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital.
Unmissable attractions to see
Heart of the City Farmers' Market
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant Heart of the City Farmers' Market in San Francisco, where fresh produce, artisanal treats, and local flavors come together in a lively community atmosphere.
Civic Center Plaza
0.2 km
Discover Civic Center Plaza, a cultural hub in San Francisco, surrounded by iconic architecture, vibrant events, and lush green spaces.
Orpheum Theatre
0.2 km
Experience the enchanting Orpheum Theatre, a historic jewel of San Francisco's performing arts scene, offering unforgettable shows in a stunning architectural setting.
49-Mile Scenic Drive
0.2 km
Discover San Francisco's iconic landmarks and breathtaking vistas along the 49-Mile Scenic Drive, a picturesque route showcasing the city's unique beauty.
Saint Boniface Catholic Church
0.3 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Saint Boniface Catholic Church, a serene retreat in the heart of San Francisco's Tenderloin district.
War Memorial Opera House
0.4 km
Experience the grandeur of the War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco, where world-class performances and stunning architecture await every visitor.
Tenderloin Museum
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant history and cultural stories of San Francisco's Tenderloin district at the Tenderloin Museum.
Civic Center
0.5 km
Explore Civic Center, San Francisco's architectural marvel with stunning landmarks, vibrant parks, and rich cultural experiences waiting to be discovered.
Davies Symphony Hall
0.5 km
Experience the architectural wonder and cultural richness of Davies Symphony Hall, the heart of San Francisco's vibrant music scene.
San Francisco Magic Theater (w/Jay Alexander) at the Marrakech
0.7 km
Discover the magic of performances and dining at the San Francisco Magic Theater, where enchantment awaits in every show.
Sidewalk Food Tours of San Francisco
0.8 km
Discover the flavors of San Francisco with Sidewalk Food Tours, where every bite tells a story in the city's vibrant culinary scene.
Essential places to dine
Brenda's French Soul Food
0.4 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Brenda's French Soul Food in San Francisco—where every bite tells a story of rich culinary tradition.
Son and Garden
0.4 km
Discover Son and Garden: A delightful New American dining experience in San Francisco's Tenderloin with fresh flavors and seasonal menus.
Birdsong
0.5 km
Discover Birdsong: A premier fine dining restaurant in San Francisco offering innovative American cuisine and an unforgettable culinary experience.
Kiln
0.6 km
Discover Kiln: A premier fine dining destination in San Francisco offering innovative cuisine and an unforgettable atmosphere.
AsiaSF
0.7 km
Discover AsiaSF: where delicious Asian fusion cuisine meets spectacular cabaret performances in the heart of San Francisco.
Absinthe Brasserie & Bar
0.7 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at Absinthe Brasserie & Bar in San Francisco's Civic Center.
Monsieur Benjamin
0.7 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Monsieur Benjamin in Hayes Valley - where modern flavors meet timeless tradition.
Chez Maman West
0.7 km
Savor authentic French cuisine at Chez Maman West in Hayes Valley - where culinary passion meets inviting ambiance.
Nightbird
0.7 km
Experience exquisite Californian cuisine at Nightbird, San Francisco's premier fine dining destination known for its innovative dishes and elegant atmosphere.
a Mano
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at a Mano in Hayes Valley - where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Kin Khao
0.8 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors at Kin Khao in San Francisco's Union Square – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Rich Table
0.8 km
Discover Rich Table: A top-rated New American restaurant in San Francisco’s Lower Haight serving innovative dishes crafted from local ingredients.
Liholiho Yacht Club
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant blend of Californian and Asian cuisines at Liholiho Yacht Club in San Francisco's Lower Nob Hill.
1601 Bar & Kitchen
1.0 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at 1601 Bar & Kitchen - where tradition meets modern fine dining in San Francisco's SoMa district.
Suppenküche
1.0 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Suppenküche in San Francisco's Hayes Valley - where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cha May Ching Museum Boutique
0.1 km
Discover unique Asian art and cultural gifts at Cha May Ching Museum Boutique in San Francisco's Civic Center.
Polk market&gift shop
0.4 km
Explore Polk Market & Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local essentials in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Tenderloin district.
New Horizons gift shop
0.4 km
Explore New Horizons Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and trendy accessories in the heart of San Francisco's SoMa district.
minimal
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish furniture, and exquisite jewelry at Minimal in San Francisco's Civic Center. A treasure for every taste!
Reliquary
0.9 km
Explore Reliquary, a boutique in San Francisco's Hayes Valley offering vintage clothing and unique jewelry reflecting the city's artistic spirit.
Urban Outfitters
0.9 km
Discover Urban Outfitters in San Francisco's Union Square, a trendy hub for fashion-forward clothing, unique home decor, and stylish accessories.
Metier
0.9 km
Discover unique, artisan-crafted jewelry at Metier in the heart of Hayes Valley, San Francisco's chic shopping destination.
Gift Shop
1.0 km
Explore a delightful gift shop in Union Square, San Francisco, offering unique souvenirs and local treasures perfect for every traveler.
Cuyana
1.1 km
Explore Cuyana in San Francisco's Union Square: where elegance meets sustainability in women's fashion.
Louis Vuitton San Francisco Union Square
1.1 km
Explore the luxury of Louis Vuitton in San Francisco's Union Square, where timeless elegance meets modern sophistication in leather goods.
Secret Shop
1.2 km
Explore the eclectic treasures of Secret Shop in San Francisco's Union Square for unique gifts and local art that perfectly capture the city's spirit.
Saks Fifth Avenue
1.2 km
Discover the ultimate luxury shopping experience at Saks Fifth Avenue in San Francisco's Union Square, featuring top designer brands and exquisite accessories.
Cali Gifts & More
1.2 km
Explore the charm of Cali Gifts & More in San Francisco's Nob Hill, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Maison Margiela San Francisco
1.3 km
Experience the cutting-edge of fashion at Maison Margiela San Francisco, where luxury meets artistic expression in an unforgettable shopping experience.
Hermes San Francisco Store
1.3 km
Discover unparalleled luxury at Hermes San Francisco, where elegant leather goods and fashion accessories await in the heart of Union Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Smuggler's Cove
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Smuggler's Cove, San Francisco's premier cocktail bar and rum haven.
Bourbon & Branch
0.7 km
Discover the speakeasy charm of Bourbon & Branch, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a vibrant San Francisco atmosphere.
Rye Cocktail Bar
0.7 km
Discover Rye Cocktail Bar in San Francisco, a cocktail haven with expertly mixed drinks and a lively atmosphere perfect for any evening out.
Cityscape
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cityscape, where stunning views and craft cocktails create an unforgettable bar experience in San Francisco.
Sluts the wine bar
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant SoMa district with exquisite wines and a cozy atmosphere at Sluts the Wine Bar in San Francisco.
Owl Tree
0.9 km
Discover Owl Tree, San Francisco's cocktail gem known for its cozy ambiance and innovative drinks perfect for any night out.
Johnny Foley's Irish House
0.9 km
Discover the heart of Ireland in San Francisco at Johnny Foley's Irish House, where lively music and delicious food create unforgettable moments.
Persona
1.0 km
Discover Persona, San Francisco's stylish cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Lower Nob Hill.
Clock Bar
1.1 km
Discover Clock Bar in Union Square: A chic lounge and restaurant offering exquisite cocktails and delectable bites in the heart of San Francisco.
The Majestic Butterfly Lounge
1.1 km
Experience the art of mixology at The Majestic Butterfly Lounge, a stylish cocktail bar in San Francisco's Cathedral Hill, perfect for a vibrant night out.
Pacific Cocktail Haven
1.2 km
Discover San Francisco's premier cocktail experience at Pacific Cocktail Haven, where innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Last Drop Tavern
1.3 km
Discover Last Drop Tavern in San Francisco's Union Square, where delicious New American cuisine meets creative cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.
Kozy Kar
1.3 km
Experience the unique charm of Kozy Kar, a vibrant bar in San Francisco's Polk Gulch, known for its water mattresses and friendly atmosphere.
Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar in San Francisco, combining art, cocktails, and a unique lounge experience in Union Square.
Dahlia SF
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Francisco at Dahlia SF, a bar known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere in the heart of the Mission District.
