Self Guided Chinatown Tour: Food, History and Culture

San Francisco, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (1 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Lifetime access to this tour in english
  • inclusion
    Voicemap app for android and ios
  • inclusion
    Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
  • exclusion
    Smartphone and headphones
  • exclusion
    Transportation
  • exclusion
    Food and drink

Meeting Point

The tour begins in front of the Chinatown Dragon Gate at the corner of Grant and Bush Street. (Dragon Gate Chinatown SF, 413-401 Grant Ave)

Meeting point

413 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108 , United States

End point

End Point

The last stop on our tour is St Mary’s Square.

Meeting point

651 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Chinatown

Embark on a fascinating journey through San Francisco's Chinatown, one of North America's oldest and most densely populated districts, where vibrant culture, rich history, and delectable cuisine come together.

Duration 60 minutes
2

Dragon's Gate

Begin your cultural adventure at the Dragon Gate on Grant Avenue, where you'll step into the lively tapestry of Chinatown and start your exploration of its history, culinary delights, and hidden gems.

3

Old Saint Mary's Cathedral

See Old Saint Mary's Cathedral, a landmark that stands as a testament to the city's diverse religious heritage and hosts various cultural celebrations, including Chinese New Year festivities and the annual Irish Heritage Festival.

4

Canton Bazaar

Explore Canton Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace where you can find bargains, souvenirs, and a glimpse into the local shopping culture of Chinatown.

5

Chinese Historical Society of America

Pass by the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum, an institution preserving and showcasing the rich history and heritage of Chinese Americans, offering valuable insights into the community's journey.

6

Ross Alley

Stroll through Ross Alley, uncovering hidden corners and historical anecdotes as you traverse the narrow passages that hold the secrets of Chinatown's past.

7

Golden Gate Fortune Cookies Co

Step into the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, the oldest fortune cookie factory in the city, where the sweet aroma of freshly made treats accompanies stories of tradition and culinary craftsmanship.

8

Good Mong Kok Bakery

Indulge your taste buds at Good Mong Kok Bakery, a dim sum haven specializing in delectable dumplings and other traditional delights, adding a culinary dimension to your Chinatown experience.

9

Wong Lee Bakery

Visit Wong Lee Bakery, where you can savor the flavors of traditional egg tarts and immerse yourself in the culinary heritage of Chinatown.

10

Portsmouth Square

Pause at Portsmouth Square, a central gathering place that holds historical significance, and learn about its role in shaping the community and hosting cultural events.

11

Eastern Bakery

Discover Eastern Bakery, where the secrets of mooncakes, a traditional pastry with dense fillings, are unveiled, providing a delicious and educational stop on your tour.

12

The Wok Shop

Pass by The Wok Shop, a culinary haven that supplies woks to professionals, community members, and food enthusiasts alike, showcasing the kitchen essentials that fuel the culinary heartbeat of Chinatown.

13

Chinatown Kite Shop

Explore the Chinatown Kite Shop, an iconic establishment offering handmade Chinese dragon kites and more, blending cultural artifacts with artistic creations.

14

St. Mary's Square

End your tour at St Mary's Square, where you can reflect on the rich tapestry of experiences, cultural discoveries, and gastronomic delights encountered on your journey through San Francisco's Chinatown.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by VoiceMap Audio Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Start at the Dragon Gate for best views.
  • icon
    Try the egg tarts at Good Mong Kok Bakery.
  • icon
    Visit the Canton Bazaar for unique gifts.
  • icon
    Check out the murals in St Mary's Square.
  • icon
    Bring headphones for a better audio experience.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Embark on a self-guided adventure through the vibrant streets of San Francisco's Chinatown with the Self Guided Chinatown Tour: Food, History, and Culture. Led by local expert David Hu, this tour offers a unique insight into one of North America's oldest districts, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and culinary delights.

What to expect?

Experience a deep dive into Chinatown's history, culture, and gastronomy as you visit four special eateries, including the iconic Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory and Good Mong Kok Bakery. Learn about the significance of Chinatown and its ties to Bruce Lee, while uncovering the impact of the Chinese Exclusion Act. This tour promises a delightful blend of exploration, education, and delicious food.

Who is this for?

This self-guided tour is perfect for independent travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience in San Francisco's Chinatown. Whether you're a food enthusiast, history buff, or simply curious about different cultures, this tour offers something for everyone. It's ideal for solo adventurers, couples, families, and friends looking to explore at their own pace.

Why book this?

Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of San Francisco's Chinatown with the Self Guided Chinatown Tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour offers a personalized and insightful journey through the district's history, culture, and culinary scene. With lifetime access to the tour and the option for virtual exploration at home, you can enjoy this enriching experience whenever it suits you.

Good to know

Before starting your tour, make sure to download the VoiceMap app for Android and iOS for easy access to audio guides, maps, and geodata. Remember to bring your smartphone, headphones, and any necessary tickets or entrance fees for attractions along the route. Explore at your own pace and take in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Chinatown at your leisure.

Reviews

Travelers rave about the Self Guided Chinatown Tour, praising the in-depth cultural insights, delicious food stops, and convenient self-guided format. Many appreciate the flexibility of exploring at their own pace and the lifetime access to the tour for future enjoyment. Overall, visitors highly recommend this tour for a memorable and enriching experience in San Francisco's Chinatown.

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