A 2-hour tour of San Francisco’s Chinatown is a great way to explore this exciting neighborhood. Iconic landmarks here include the Dragon Gate at Grant Avenue and Bush Street, Portsmouth Square, Old St. Mary’s Church and the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory. Grant Avenue is where one will often find cultural events and activities; the street is also lined with several restaurants and shops selling souvenirs.
If you prefer less crowds, it is advisable to visit during weekdays.
9:30 am – Begin at the Dragon Gate: This iconic gate marks the entrance to Chinatown; it is located at the intersection of Grant Avenue and Bush Street. The Dragon Gate is very Instagram-able so don’t forget to take pictures.
9:45 am – Grant Avenue: This is the main thoroughfare of Chinatown. The street is bustling and you will find different shops, markets, and restaurants. Take to one (or several) of the shops and restaurants for unique souvenirs and goods.
10:15 am – Stockton Street: To make your way to Stockton Street, just turn left to any of the intersections along Grant Avenue. Stockton St. runs parallel to Grant Avenue. There you will find several more bustling markets, shops, and restaurants. Enter the fish monger shops to see different kinds of live aquatic produce; beware though as this is truly reserved for the more daring! Along Stockton St. as well is the very famous (you’ll know you’re there when you see the long line) Good Mong Kok Bakery (see below image) where they sell barbecue pork buns and other savory dim sum items. To satisfy your sweet cravings, you can cross the street from Good Mong Kok and head to, The AA Bakery and Cafe where they sell custard pies, moon cakes, and other sweet baked goods. Enter the different small mom-and-pops grocery shops for some Asian style chips and snacks (New Asia Grocery on Pacific St. and Komi Food near the Quiet Tunnel).
10:45 am – Portsmouth Square: It is considered the “heart” of Chinatown as this is where locals gather for community activities and cultural events. Take your time here to soak in the ambience.
11:00 am – Ross Alley: This is where you will find the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory. You can observe the process of making fortune cookies and sample some fresh ones.
11:15 am – Chinese Historical Society of America: If you have a few minutes to spare, consider visiting the Chinese Historical Society of America, located on Clay Street. It provides insights into the rich history and culture of Chinatown.
11:30 am – End of Tour.
You can choose to go back to the Dragon Gate by retracing your steps back.
Or, you can exit Chinatown by going through the Quiet Tunnel. This tunnel connects Union Square and Chinatown.
Note that this itinerary allows for a pretty quick exploration of Chinatown. You can adjust the timing based on your preferences and the pace at which you wish to explore.
Do not forget to take pictures!
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Picture taken from Google Maps (all rights reserved to the owner).
