San Francisco's Chinatown

Discovering San Francisco's Chinatown

A Historical Gem

Did you know that fortune cookies were invented in San Francisco? While in Chinatown, stop by the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory where you can watch the cookies being made and sample different flavors and toppings. – Lili Weigert

While New York City's Chinatown tends to take center stage in the U.S., San Francisco's Chinatown is just as much of a star. It hosts one of the largest Asian communities outside of Asia and is one of the oldest in North America. Chinese immigrants began arriving in California during the Gold Rush in search of fortune. After facing discrimination and restrictive legislation, they were driven out of the gold mines and started to build businesses in the area that is now Chinatown – one of the city's most visited neighborhoods.

Exploring Chinatown

The best way to experience Chinatown is to simply wander around the neighborhood. Although Chinatown isn't very big (about 24 blocks), even a short stroll will likely lead you to the top spots in the area.

Main Attractions

Grant Avenue serves as the main thoroughfare and attracts the most tourists. Here, you'll find the Chinatown Gate and plenty of souvenir shops. However, to get a sense of the real Chinatown, venture beyond Grant Avenue.

For the Foodies

Food enthusiasts should visit the markets on Stockton Street. These markets are popular with locals and feature a variety of ingredients you'll likely see on menus around the neighborhood. When hunger strikes, enjoy a meal at Great Eastern Restaurant, a well-known Cantonese eatery. For a sweet treat, head to Golden Gate Bakery for its famous egg tart.

Historical and Cultural Sites

Other must-visit spots include the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum and Waverly Place, which is home to the oldest Chinese temple in the U.S., the Tin How Temple.

Hours and Tickets

Chinatown is free to explore 24 hours per day, though individual business hours vary. To reach Chinatown, hop off at the Montgomery Street BART Station or the Market St. & Second Street Muni Metro Station, then walk a little more than half a mile northwest. Several bus tours also make stops in the neighborhood, but for a more in-depth look at the area, consider a walking tour. For more information on Chinatown, consult the neighborhood's website.