743 Washington Street: A Chinatown Landmark
Explore the historic 743 Washington Street in San Francisco's Chinatown, once the Chinese Telephone Exchange, a landmark blending Eastern architecture and community heritage.
743 Washington Street in San Francisco's Chinatown is more than just an address; it's a journey through time. Originally the site of San Francisco's first newspaper, the California Star, it transformed into the Chinese Telephone Exchange in 1909, a vital communication hub for the community. The pagoda-style building, now home to a bank, stands as a testament to Chinatown's resilience and architectural ingenuity. It represents a blend of Eastern and Western styles, reflecting the neighborhood's unique cultural identity. A visit offers a glimpse into the history of Chinese Americans and the evolution of San Francisco itself. Explore this iconic structure and discover the stories etched into its walls, connecting you to the past and present of this vibrant neighborhood.
A brief summary to 743 Washington St
- 743 Washington St, San Francisco, Chinatown, California, 94108, US
Local tips
- Admire the building's pagoda-style architecture, a unique blend of Eastern and Western design, reflecting Chinatown's cultural identity.
- Visit the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum nearby to learn more about the history of Chinese Americans in San Francisco.
- Explore Portsmouth Square, known as "Chinatown's Living Room," to witness the daily life and community spirit of the neighborhood.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Chinatown-Rose Pak Station, served by the Muni Metro T Third Street line, is conveniently located at the southwest corner of Stockton and Washington streets, a short walk from 743 Washington Street. Several bus lines, including the 1, 8, 30, and 45, also stop near the intersection of Washington and Stockton Streets. A single ride on Muni costs $2.50, payable with a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app.
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Cable Car
Take the California Street Cable Car line to the California and Grant stop. From there, walk one block north on Grant Avenue to Washington Street, then turn right. 743 Washington Street will be on your left. A single ride on the cable car costs $8.
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Walking
From the Dragon Gate at Grant Avenue and Bush Street, walk north on Grant Avenue for approximately four blocks to Washington Street. Turn right onto Washington Street, and 743 Washington Street will be immediately on your left. This is a relatively flat walk and takes about 5-10 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Request a taxi or ride-share to 743 Washington Street, San Francisco. Be aware that traffic in Chinatown can be congested, especially during peak hours. A short ride from Union Square or the Financial District will typically cost between $15-$20, depending on traffic and surge pricing.
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Driving
Driving directly to 743 Washington Street is possible, but parking in Chinatown can be challenging and expensive. Street parking is limited to 2 hours and metered parking rates vary. Several parking garages are located nearby, including the Portsmouth Square Garage (733 Kearny Street) and the Sutter Stockton Garage (444 Stockton Street). Hourly rates typically range from $4-$6, with daily maximums around $30-$36. Be aware of residential parking restrictions in the area.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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