Chinatown, San Francisco: A Vibrant Cultural Enclave
Explore North America's oldest Chinatown in San Francisco: a vibrant cultural hub with historic temples, bustling markets, and authentic cuisine.
San Francisco's Chinatown, established in the 1850s, is the oldest Chinatown in North America and one of the largest Chinese enclaves outside of Asia. This historic neighborhood offers a captivating blend of cultural experiences, from traditional temples and bustling markets to authentic cuisine and unique shops.
A brief summary to Chinatown San Francisco
- Stockton St Tunnel, San Francisco, Nob Hill, California, 94108, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the Chinese New Year Festival (late January/early February) for a vibrant celebration with parades, street fairs, and cultural performances.
- Explore the hidden alleyways like Waverly Place for unique shops, restaurants, and a glimpse into historic Chinatown.
- Try authentic dim sum at local restaurants like Good Mong Kok Bakery for a delicious and affordable experience.
- Visit Portsmouth Square, known as "Chinatown's Living Room", to observe tai chi practices or Chinese chess games.
- Take a stroll down Stockton Street for an authentic local experience, with bustling produce and fish markets.
Getting There
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Walking
From Union Square, walk north on Stockton Street for approximately 1 mile. You'll pass through the Stockton Street Tunnel and arrive at the heart of Chinatown. This walk is mostly uphill and takes about 20-25 minutes.
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Public Transport
From the Ferry Building, take the California Street cable car line to Grant Avenue. This drops you off at the main entrance of Chinatown. The cable car fare is $8 per ride. Alternatively, take the 30-Stockton bus, which runs directly through Chinatown. A single ride on Muni is $3.00 cash or $2.85 with Clipper card/MuniMobile.
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Ride Share
From Fisherman's Wharf, a taxi or ride-share to Chinatown will cost approximately $15-$25, depending on traffic and the specific service. The ride takes about 10-15 minutes. Ask your driver to drop you off at the Dragon Gate on Grant Avenue.
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Parking
Several parking garages are available in and around Chinatown. Portsmouth Square Plaza Garage (733 Kearny St) charges $4 per hour, with a daily maximum of $32. The Sutter Stockton Garage (444 Stockton St) has hourly rates ranging from $1 to $4.50, with a daily maximum of $36. Street parking is limited to 2 hours in most areas and subject to dynamic pricing. Evening parking (after 5pm) at Portsmouth Square Garage is $8.
Discover more about Chinatown San Francisco
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stockton St
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Discover the cultural richness and culinary delights of Stockton Street in San Francisco, a vibrant thoroughfare that captures the city's diverse spirit.
Chinatown Flags Street
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Discover the soul of San Francisco's Chinatown on Waverly Place, the 'Street of Painted Balconies,' a vibrant alleyway steeped in history, culture, and the enduring spirit of its community.
743 Washington St
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Explore the unique architectural beauty and cultural richness of 743 Washington St in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown district.
Viewpoint
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Discover the historic Old St. Mary's Cathedral in San Francisco's Chinatown: a resilient landmark blending Gothic Revival architecture with a vibrant cultural legacy since 1854.
751 Commercial St
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Explore the vibrant culture and rich history of San Francisco's Chinatown at 751 Commercial Street, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Chinatown Hero's Mural
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Discover the Chinatown Hero's Mural in San Francisco, a vibrant tribute to Asian American leaders and a powerful symbol of community resilience and advocacy in historic Chinatown.
San Francisco Cable Car Museum
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Uncover the history and technology of San Francisco's iconic cable cars at the San Francisco Cable Car Museum, a free and engaging tourist attraction.
Dr. Sun Yat Sen Statue
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Visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Statue in San Francisco's Chinatown, a tribute to the father of the Chinese Republic, sculpted by Beniamino Bufano, nestled in the serene St. Mary's Square.
California Historical Landmark 192: Site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco City Hall
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James C. Flood Mansion
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Sentinel Building
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California Historical Landmark 87: Site of First United States Mint in California
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California Historical Landmark 819: Hudson's Bay Company
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0 Jack Kerouac Alley
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San Francisco Historical Society
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Explore San Francisco's captivating past at the San Francisco Historical Society: exhibits, walking tours, and publications bring the city's rich history to life in the heart of downtown.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hang Ah Lanterns
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Experience the vibrant artistry of Hang Ah Lanterns in San Francisco's Chinatown, where colorful traditions illuminate a historic neighborhood.
Chinese Historical Society of America Museum
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Explore the rich heritage of Chinese Americans at the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum in San Francisco's historic Nob Hill.
Tin How Temple
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Discover tranquility at Tin How Temple, the oldest Taoist temple in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown, and immerse yourself in rich cultural traditions.
Terracotta Warriors Mural
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Discover the rich history and artistry of the Terracotta Warriors Mural, a vibrant cultural gem in San Francisco's Chinatown.
Ross Alley Lanterns
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Discover the enchanting glow of colorful lanterns in San Francisco's Chinatown, a cultural gem offering a peaceful escape.
Buddha Lounge
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Discover serenity at Buddha Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown, where vibrant culture meets a relaxing atmosphere and delicious cocktails.
California Street vista
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Experience an iconic San Francisco view from Nob Hill, where historic cable cars meet stunning vistas of the city and bay.
Journey To The West Mural
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Explore the captivating Journey to the West Mural in San Francisco's Chinatown, a vibrant celebration of Chinese folklore and artistry.
Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory
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Explore the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory in Chinatown, a delightful experience of making and tasting fortune cookies in San Francisco.
Li Po Cocktail Lounge
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Discover the iconic Li Po Cocktail Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown, famous for its Chinese Mai Tai and vibrant nightlife.
All About Chinatown Tours
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Explore the vibrant culture and history of San Francisco's Chinatown with expert-guided tours, uncovering hidden gems and culinary delights.
Sing Chong Building
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Discover the Sing Chong Building in San Francisco's Chinatown: a historic landmark showcasing unique Chinese-American architecture and cultural heritage.
Old Saint Mary's Cathedral
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Explore the historic Old Saint Mary's Cathedral in San Francisco's Chinatown, a stunning architectural gem with rich cultural heritage.
Chinatown view point
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Discover breathtaking views of San Francisco's historic Chinatown from this scenic vantage point on California Street. A cultural experience awaits!
Portsmouth Square
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Explore the historical charm of Portsmouth Square, a serene park nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown.
Essential places to dine
Mister Jiu's
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Discover Mister Jiu's in Chinatown: Where traditional Chinese flavors meet modern culinary artistry in an unforgettable dining experience.
Empress by Boon
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Experience authentic Cantonese cuisine at Empress by Boon in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—where tradition meets culinary excellence.
City View Restaurant
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Experience authentic Cantonese cuisine at City View Restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown with stunning city views.
New Lun Ting Cafe
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Discover New Lun Ting Cafe: A Hidden Gem in San Francisco's Chinatown Offering Authentic Chinese Cuisine at Affordable Prices.
Z & Y Restaurant
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Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Z & Y Restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—delicious dishes await every food lover.
Great Eastern Restaurant
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Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Great Eastern Restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—home to exquisite dim sum and fresh seafood delights.
FUSION DUMPLING
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Discover authentic flavors at Fusion Dumpling in San Francisco's Chinatown—your destination for exquisite dim sum, hot pot, and noodle dishes.
Bund Shanghai Restaurant
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Experience authentic Shanghainese cuisine in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown at Bund Shanghai Restaurant.
Begoni Bistro
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Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Begoni Bistro in San Francisco's historic Chinatown - a delightful culinary journey awaits!
House of Nanking
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Discover authentic Chinese flavors at House of Nanking in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—a family-friendly dining experience not to be missed!
Trestle Restaurant
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Experience the best of American and Italian cuisine at Trestle Restaurant in the heart of San Francisco's iconic Chinatown.
Bouche
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Sons & Daughters
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Roxanne Cafe
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Tosca Cafe
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unique Variety
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Yat On Gift Shop
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Explore the vibrant Yat On Gift Shop in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and authentic Asian treasures that celebrate the city's rich cultural heritage.
Jing Ying Gift Shop inc
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Explore Jing Ying Gift Shop in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and authentic souvenirs that capture the essence of Chinese culture.
Peking Bazaar
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Explore the charm of Chinatown with unique gifts and authentic souvenirs at Peking Bazaar, a must-visit destination in San Francisco.
Shangri La Gifts
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Explore Shangri La Gifts in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique treasures and a taste of local craftsmanship that captures the city's vibrant culture.
Old Shanghai
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Explore Old Shanghai in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and authentic decor that capture the essence of the exotic Orient.
Canton Bazaar
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Discover unique treasures at Canton Bazaar, a vibrant gift shop in San Francisco's Chinatown, perfect for authentic souvenirs and cultural finds.
Souvenir Shop
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Discover unique treasures in Chinatown's Souvenir Shop, offering a blend of traditional and modern keepsakes for every traveler.
Up & Up Gift Shop
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Explore Up & Up Gift Shop in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and souvenirs that embody the city's rich culture and charm.
Oriental Treasures San Francisco
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Explore a treasure trove of Asian artifacts and unique gifts at Oriental Treasures in San Francisco's enchanting Chinatown.
China Station
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Explore the authentic treasures of Chinatown at China Station, your go-to gift shop for traditional crafts and unique home goods.
Butterfly's Gift Shop Inc
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Fashion House & Gifts
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Good View Trading Co
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Vigi Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Moongate Lounge
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CHI Lounge
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Discover CHI Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown for an unforgettable night of live music, dancing, and vibrant cocktails.
718
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Discover the unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere at 718 Lounge in San Francisco's historic Chinatown, where craft cocktails and Asian cuisine meet.
Lion's Den Lounge and Bar
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Red's Place
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Comstock Saloon
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Comstock Saloon: Where Historic Charm Meets Craft Cocktails in San Francisco's Chinatown.
Mr Bing's
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Bow Bow Cocktail Lounge
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Discover Bow Bow Cocktail Lounge in Chinatown, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable night out in San Francisco.
Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar
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Cold Drinks Bar
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Experience the best cocktails in North Beach at Cold Drinks Bar, where creativity meets flavor in a stylish atmosphere.
The Devil's Acre
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Last Drop Tavern
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15 Romolo
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Harlan Records
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Pacific Cocktail Haven
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