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- English
- English
Explore the vibrant and historic San Francisco Chinatown at your own pace on this self-guided walking tour.
As the oldest Chinatown in North America, this neighborhood offers a rich tapestry of stories, from the resilient spirit of its early immigrants to the lively markets and serene temples that define its character today.
Discover iconic sites like the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory and hidden gems tucked away in lantern-lit alleys.
Engaging narration will illuminate the cultural significance of this unique community, providing a fresh perspective on a beloved destination that tourists often overlook.
— Self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace
— Visit historic landmarks and hidden corners of Chinatown
— Discover the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory
— Engaging stories bring the cultural heritage of Chinatown to life
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Dragon Gate is located at the corner of Bush Street and Grant Avenue. It is a traditional Chinese gate, with a green roof.
The Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco is located opposite Portsmouth Square Park on Kearny Street, in a modern skyscraper.
Itinerary
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1
Step through this iconic gateway and into the heart of Chinatown. With its ornate stone lions and sweeping green roof, the Dragon’s Gate marks the start of Grant Avenue—and the beginning of an unforgettable cultural journey.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Grant Avenue is Chinatown’s main artery and oldest street, lined with lanterns, specialty shops, and historic buildings. It’s a vibrant blend of past and present, perfect for strolling, shopping, and soaking in local color.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
Built in 1854, this Gothic brick cathedral is one of the city’s oldest surviving landmarks. Its enduring presence offers a glimpse into Chinatown’s layered spiritual and immigrant history—complete with a bell that once rang across Gold Rush-era San Francisco.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
This lively plaza has been a gathering place since the city’s earliest days and is known as the Heart of Chinatown. It buzzes with games, conversation, and a deep sense of community tradition today.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Housed in a former YWCA designed by Julia Morgan, this museum brings the Chinese American experience to life through compelling exhibits, artifacts, and untold stories. It’s a must-visit for context, connection, and cultural insight.
Admission ticket free -
5
Tucked above the streets in a modern building, this dynamic arts space showcases contemporary Chinese American voices through visual art, performance, and exhibitions. It’s where tradition and innovation meet.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
One of the oldest functioning Chinese temples in the U.S., Tin How Temple is a quiet sanctuary tucked above the bustle. Step inside to experience the spiritual heart of the neighborhood, rich with incense, prayer, and history.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7
Ross Alley is one of Chinatown’s most atmospheric backstreets. Narrow, colorful, and full of character. Once known for gambling dens and barber shops, it now offers quiet charm—and a few hidden gems.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8
Watch fortune cookies made fresh by hand at this tiny, one-of-a-kind factory tucked into Ross Alley. The sweet scent of vanilla and the snap of folded cookies make this stop unforgettable.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
9
Known as the Street of Painted Balconies, Waverly Place is lined with vibrant façades, historic associations, and hidden temples. It’s a colorful stroll through the spiritual and architectural heart of Chinatown.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
10
Lively and bustling, Stockton Street is where locals shop for fresh produce, seafood, and specialty goods. Less touristy than Grant Avenue, it offers an authentic slice of everyday Chinatown life.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
11
Bold and dynamic, this larger-than-life mural honors martial arts legend Bruce Lee, who spent part of his childhood in Chinatown. It's a striking tribute to strength, identity, and cultural pride.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
12
This bright and whimsical mural brings the legendary tale of the Monkey King to life. It’s both a celebration of Chinese folklore and a vibrant piece of public art that enlivens the streetscape.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
13
Spofford Alley was once a hub of secret societies and underground activity and now offers a quieter walk through Chinatown’s layered past. Its narrow passageways hold echoes of resilience, resistance, and community life behind the scenes.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
14
This thoughtful memorial honors the contributions of Chinese Americans during World War II, particularly in the Pacific theater. Through photos, artifacts, and stories, it sheds light on a powerful chapter of shared history and sacrifice.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
15
The Sing Chong and Sing Fat Buildings are iconic twin structures with pagoda-inspired rooftops that helped define the look of post-earthquake Chinatown. They remain architectural landmarks and symbols of cultural pride and perseverance, and stand proudly at the Dragon’s Gate.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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