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The oldest Chinese enclave in North America and a living piece of history.
Born during the California Gold Rush, San Francisco's Chinatown served as the primary port of entry for Chinese immigrants. It quickly became a vital cultural and economic hub, surviving decades of exclusionary laws and systemic discrimination.
Following the 1906 earthquake, city leaders attempted to relocate the neighborhood to move the Chinese community out of the city center. However, local leaders fought back, hiring architects to design buildings with "oriental" motifs to solidify the area as a tourist destination and cultural landmark.
Today, it remains one of the most densely populated urban areas in the United States, balancing its role as a major tourist attraction with its identity as a residential community for thousands of immigrants.
The lanterns of Grant Avenue are an iconic symbol of the district's resilience.
From the tourist sights of Grant Avenue to the authentic markets of Stockton Street.
The main tourist thoroughfare filled with gifts and landmarks.
The authentic "heart" where locals do their daily shopping.
Dozens of narrow passages hold hidden secrets.
The iconic entrance at Bush St. Unlike most Chinatowns, this gate was built with authentic materials and features two stone lions guarding the entrance.
Tucked away in Ross Alley, the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory has been hand-making cookies since 1962. You can smell the sweet vanilla from blocks away.
Grant Avenue is lined with shops offering everything from silk robes and tea sets to jade jewelry and traditional artwork. It's the perfect place for unique gifts.
Essential things to know before you visit.
Enjoy the best views of San Francisco from an open top bus with the Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour during the day and the San Francisco Night Tour in the evening hours.
Enjoy a flexible 1-day hop-on hop-off bus tour across San Francisco's iconic landmarks and neighborhoods.
