Dragon Gate: Gateway to San Francisco's Chinatown
Enter a world of vibrant culture and rich history at San Francisco's Dragon Gate, the iconic gateway to North America's oldest Chinatown, a landmark of resilience and heritage.
The Dragon Gate, standing at the intersection of Grant Avenue and Bush Street, marks the traditional southern entrance to San Francisco's Chinatown, the oldest Chinatown in North America. Constructed in 1970 as a gift from Taiwan, this impressive paifang-style gate features three portals adorned with green-tiled roofs, intricate dragon sculptures, and guardian lions. Passing through the gate is like stepping into another world, a vibrant hub of culture, history, and community. More than just an entryway, the Dragon Gate symbolizes the resilience, heritage, and contributions of the Chinese community to San Francisco, drawing more annual visitors than even the Golden Gate Bridge.
A brief summary to Dragon Gate Chinatown SF
- 413-401 Grant Ave, San Francisco, Chinatown, California, 94108, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or in the evening for a less crowded experience and better photo opportunities at the Dragon Gate.
- Explore beyond Grant Avenue; wander through the alleyways like Ross Alley to discover hidden gems and a more authentic Chinatown experience.
- Attend the Chinese New Year Parade (usually in late January or February) for a spectacular cultural celebration.
- Try dim sum at one of the many restaurants; ask locals for their favorite spots for an authentic culinary experience.
- Take public transportation or rideshare, as parking in Chinatown can be challenging and expensive.
Getting There
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Walking
From Union Square, walk north on Stockton Street. Turn right onto Bush Street and walk one block east. The Dragon Gate will be directly ahead, marking the entrance to Chinatown. This is a straightforward and pleasant walk through the heart of San Francisco.
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Public Transport
From the Ferry Building or downtown San Francisco, take the California Street cable car line to Grant Avenue. The Dragon Gate is located at the intersection of Grant Avenue and Bush Street. A single ride on the cable car costs $8. Alternatively, take the Muni bus 30-Stockton, which runs directly through Chinatown. Get off at any stop between Broadway and Bush Street. A single Muni bus fare is $3.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available throughout San Francisco. Request a ride to the intersection of Grant Avenue and Bush Street. Expect to pay between $15-$25 for a ride from Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square, depending on traffic.
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Driving
Driving directly to the Dragon Gate is possible, but parking in Chinatown can be challenging. Several parking garages are available, including the Portsmouth Square Garage (733 Kearny Street) and the Sutter-Stockton Garage (444 Stockton St). Hourly rates typically range from $4 to $6, with daily maximums around $30-$36. Street parking is very limited and subject to strict time restrictions (usually 2 hours) and residential permit requirements.
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