San Francisco Chinatown Walking Tour

San Francisco, US
97% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (754 reviews)

Highlights

  • Immerse in vibrant colors and rich heritage
  • Visit historic landmarks and hidden gems
  • Experience the bustling Stockton Street food markets
  • Sample freshly made fortune cookies
  • Gain a whole new appreciation for Chinatown

Meeting Point

The cross street is Grant Avenue

Meeting point

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

End point

End Point

The tour ends near Grant Ave., 2 blocks from Old St. Mary's Cathedral, the starting site of the tour.

Meeting point

800 Clay St, San Francisco, CA 94108 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

All About Chinatown Tours

Meet at Old St. Mary's Cathedral, 660 California St., to begin your walking tour of Chinatown's most popular sights and hidden locales. Your guide will highlight the history and culture of Chinatown, explaining how the remarkable authenticity of ancient Chinese culture has been preserved and celebrated in a must-visit San Francisco attraction.

Duration 10 minutes
2

Portsmouth Square

Chinatown’s outdoor living room and the birthplace of San Francisco’s first American flag, first public school, and first cable car line.

Duration 15 minutes
3

Stockton Street

Stroll among the freshest and most exotic foods in the Bay Area at the Stockton Street Food Markets.

Duration 15 minutes
4

Golden Gate Fortune Cookies Co

We’ll sample these “wise crackers” and watch how it’s done.

Duration 10 minutes
5

Stockton Street

At this exotic dried goods store, you'll see ginseng, bird's nests, gecko lizards, fish bladders, sea cucumbers, abalone and more and hear about what these foods can do for you.

Duration 10 minutes
6

The Street of the Painted Balconies

Admire architectural details; hear about the history of secret institutions on Waverly Place; and time permitting, visit a secluded Buddhist temple.

Duration 10 minutes
7

Grant Avenue

Stationery store? Party goods supply store? Come with us to discover exactly what this store sells and why.

Duration 10 minutes
8

Grant Avenue

View the East West Bank building for an example of pagoda style architecture, common in Asia. But what was here before the bank? At this stop, you'll understand the complexity of the Chinese language, both spoken and written.

Duration 10 minutes

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
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Tours operate rain or shine; please dress appropriately
  • Additional information
    We need a minimum of 2 persons to confirm your booking. If you are traveling alone, we will offer alternate dates for you to join us.
Provided by All About Chinatown Tours

What our experts say

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    Try dim sum at nearby Good Mong Kok.
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    Visit the Fortune Cookie factory early.
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    Check out the murals on Waverly Place.
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    Bring cash for local market purchases.
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    Explore Portsmouth Square's history.

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