Things to do in Chinatown

Events in Chinatown

Although the Chinese New Year Parade and Festival pretty much outshines anything else in the neighborhood, there are also lots of other cool events in the neighborhood. We can also say, from experience, that heading to Chinatown during the New Year celebrations can be fun, but it can also be a little overwhelming. It is still absolutely a recommended event, but if you want to enjoy an event in Chinatown and explore the area a little bit, some of the other annual events will have a lot less crowds.

Chinese New Year Parade and Festival

First off, you’ve gotta plan around the Chinese New Year. This is the biggest event in San Francisco’s Chinatown every year. We’re talking about the biggest celebration outside of Asia, with dragons twirling through the streets, lions leaping for red envelopes, and floats that look like they’ve popped out of a fairy tale.

When: Late January or early February, based on the lunar calendar.

What: Expect a parade with elaborate costumes, fireworks that light up the night sky & a street fair where you can taste delicious dumplings, mooncakes, and more.

Highlights: The crowning of Miss Chinatown USA and performances from local schools & cultural groups.

Fun Fact: This parade has been going strong since 1860

Autumn Moon Festival

The Autumn Moon Festival takes place in the fall, usually around September/October. This event is all about family, friends & mooncakes (delicious round pastries with various fillings)

What: Lantern viewing & traditional dances

Why: It’s a time to give thanks for the harvest and to pray for good fortune in the coming year. And who couldn’t use a little bit of good fortune…

Tips: Look out for the beautiful moon displays and join in the communal moon gazing.

Double Ten Day

If you’re here in October, catch Double Ten Day on the 10th. This day commemorates the start of the Wuchang Uprising which led to the founding of the Republic of China.

What: There’s a parade, flag-raising ceremonies & lots of cultural performances.

Why: It’s a celebration of history and national pride

Summer Night Market

In the summer, particularly from June-August, the Summer Night Market kicks off in Chinatown. It’s like stepping into an Asian street market right in San Francisco.

What: Stalls selling everything from street food to handmade crafts, with live music and performances to keep the vibe lively.

Why: It’s a perfect way to enjoy the long summer evenings, tasting your way through Asian cuisine and picking up unique souvenirs.

Chinatown Night Market

There’s also a Chinatown Night Market, which happens in different seasons. It’s a great option to enjoy food, music, and shopping late into the night.

What: Think of it as an open-air bazaar where you can try out traditional snacks, watch dance performances or just soak in the atmosphere.

Other Events to Watch For

Cultural Workshops: Throughout the year, look for events where you can learn to make dumplings, practice tai chi, or paint with a Chinese brush.

Film Festivals: Chinatown sometimes hosts film festivals showcasing Asian cinema

Art Exhibitions: Keep an eye out for gallery openings or art installations that celebrate Asian artists.

Tips for Event Hopping in Chinatown

Check Dates: Events can shift, so always check the latest schedule online or with local tourism info. You can look up the information on the CrawlSf event calendar.

Come Hungry: You’re in for a treat with the array of street food and authentic restaurants.

Dress comfortably: Chinatown is not a place where you need to wear a fancy suit or throw on some high heels. It is a casual and friendly neighborhood that you will want to walk through for hours, so wear some comfortable shoes and comfy clothes. Also, since this is San Francisco, bring a jacket in case it gets cold.

Cash: While many places take cards, having some cash is handy for smaller vendors.

Chinatown Attractions and Tours

If you are in SF, seeing the Golden Gate Bridge, taking the Ferry to Alcatraz and climbing to the top of Coit Tower will always be a great idea, but if you want to see some other neat attractions after the big ones, Chinatown is a great spot to visit. You can find a lot of great things to do in Chinatown. The architecture, murals and general feel of the neighborhood is different than any other are of the city. Also, if you are looking for some great photo spots, you can find some great backdrops for your photos all over the neighborhood.

Must-Visit Attractions

Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory

Tucked away on Ross Alley, this place is a gem. You can watch fortune cookies being made by hand, which is way cooler than you’d think. Plus, you get to try some fresh off the line.

Dragon Gate

This is your official welcome to Chinatown. Built in 1969 (although not technically finished until 1970 due to weather delays), The Dragon Gate is the iconic southern entrance to Chinatown, marking the start of Grant Avenue with its impressive traditional Chinese architecture. The structure was a gift from Taiwan and features guardian lion statues and green-tiled roofs symbolizing good luck and prosperity. This is a prime photo spot and the perfect way to begin your journey into Chinatown

Chinese Six Companies

This building is like a mini-museum of Chinese-American history. It’s where the community got organized back in the day. The architecture alone is worth checking out.

Old St. Mary’s Cathedral

One of the oldest cathedrals in the city, it’s got this old-world charm with a clock that famously reminds you, “Son, Observe the Time and Fly From Evil.”

Waverly Place

Known as “Tin How Temple Alley,” Waverly Place is worth a visit while you are in the area. The Tin How Temple, one of the oldest in the US is a must for its spiritual vibe and stunning views from the top. This two-block alley is one of the most picturesque streets in Chinatown, featuring colorful balconies, historic buildings & hidden temples. It’s been featured in numerous movies and books, including Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club.

Chinatown Kite Shop

A colorful explosion of kites, this shop feels like a visit to a whimsical art gallery. Even if you don’t buy one, it’s fun just to look around. However, if you walk in, you will definitely want to buy one. If you are from out of town, keep in mind that some of these kites are big and will be difficult to fit in carry on luggage.

Other Great Attractions in Chinatown:

Grant Avenue – The main street of Chinatown, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.

Stockton Street – The heart of Chinatown’s local shopping, where you’ll find authentic Chinese produce markets and bakeries.

Ross Alley – Home to the fortune cookie factory and once a hotspot for gambling dens and opium houses.

Spofford Alley – A hidden alley with historical significance, once home to Sun Yat-sen.

Commercial Street – One of Chinatown’s original streets, featuring unique shops and historical markers.

Buddha’s Universal Church – The largest Buddhist church in the U.S. (720 Washington Street).

Nam Kue School Building – One of Chinatown’s oldest buildings, dating back to 1911.

Cameron House – A historic mission house that once helped Chinese immigrant women escape trafficking (920 Sacramento Street).

Chinese Historical Society of America Museum – A deep dive into Chinese-American history (965 Clay Street).

Chinatown Visitor Information Center – Great for learning about Chinatown’s history and current events (625 Kearny Street).

Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall – A tribute to the founder of modern China (inside the Chinese Six Companies Building).

Peking Bazaar – A historic store with Chinese antiques, artwork, and souvenirs.

House of Nanking – Famous for its legendary Chinese cuisine with a no-frills attitude (919 Kearny Street).

R&G Lounge – A Chinatown staple known for its salt & pepper crab (631 Kearny Street).

Good Mong Kok Bakery – One of the best dim sum spots with cheap, delicious bites (1039 Stockton Street).

Golden Gate Bakery – Famous for its egg tarts, but often closed randomly (1029 Grant Avenue).

China Live – A modern food hall experience showcasing Chinese flavors (644 Broadway Street).

Canton Bazaar – A large gift shop with traditional Chinese souvenirs (616 Grant Avenue).

Wishing Tree in Portsmouth Square – Write down a wish and tie it to the tree for good luck.

Chong Wa Buddhist Temple – A peaceful Buddhist sanctuary with beautiful statues and decorations (1335 Powell Street).

Betsy Ross Chinese Baptist Church – One of the historic churches catering to Chinatown’s community (354 Clay Street).

Saint Mary’s Square & Sun Yat-sen Statue – A peaceful spot with a statue honoring the revolutionary leader (651 California Street).

Buddha Lounge – A tiny, quirky dive bar with an old-school Chinatown vibe (901 Grant Avenue).

The Alleyways of Chinatown – Wander through the lesser-known alleys like Beckett Street, Walter U. Lum Place, and Hang Ah Alley.

Chinatown Tours

Walking Tours

All About Chinatown: This tour gives you the scoop on the history, culture, and hidden spots. You’ll learn the stories behind the buildings and get to taste some local treats.

Wok Wiz: Not just a tour but a culinary adventure where you learn about the food while eating your way through the neighborhood.

Why Tours are a great way to see Chinatown

First Timers: If it’s your first rodeo in Chinatown, a tour helps you navigate the maze of streets and understand what you’re seeing.

Hidden Gems: Guides often take you to places you’d miss on your own, like secret gardens or tiny tea shops.

Stories: You get the narratives behind the attractions, making your experience richer.

Combo Tours:

If you want to check more of SF, look for tours that combine Chinatown with other spots like Alcatraz or Fisherman’s Wharf.

San Francisco City Tour: Some tours offer a broader look at the city, hitting Chinatown as part of a bigger itinerary, giving you a taste of San Francisco’s diverse flavors.

Chinatown Nightlife

While Chinatown may not be the first area that people recommended for taste of the nightlife in San Francisco, it is a great spot for people who want to enjoy some fun dive bars and some late night snacks.

Chinatown Bars

Red’s Place

This place is like stepping back in time. It’s the oldest bar in Chinatown, where the vibe is all about old-timers, locals, and an unpretentious atmosphere. Grab a beer, maybe watch some sports, and enjoy the no-frills charm.

Mr. Bing’s

Right on the edge of Chinatown, this dive bar is where you go for a quick shot or a cold beer. It’s got that gritty, “just be yourself” feel that’s perfect for winding down or revving up your night.

Li Po Cocktail Lounge

If you’re after a taste of the exotic, Li Po is your spot. Known for its potent mai tais, this place feels like you’ve walked into a scene from an old-school detective movie. It’s dark, it’s moody, and it’s got the best of both worlds: dive bar meets tiki lounge.

Live Music and Culture

Great Star Theater

Not your typical nightlife spot, but if you’re looking for something culturally rich, catch a traditional Chinese opera here. It’s an experience unlike any other, with costumes and performances that’ll transport you straight to old China.

Lion’s Den Nightclub

This spot is all about bringing back the golden era of Chinatown’s nightlife with a modern twist. It’s got DJs spinning tunes, and the decor screams vintage with a nod to the neighborhood’s history. Great for dancing or just chilling with a cocktail.

Karaoke and Unique Experiences

Bow Bow Cocktail Lounge

Fancy yourself a singer? This is where you can belt out your favorite tunes. It’s a bit cramped, but that just adds to the intimate, fun vibe. It’s the kind of place where everyone ends up friends by the end of the night.

Buddha Lounge

A dive bar with a twist – there’s literally an altar to Buddha behind the bar. It’s a quirky spot where you can sip your drink and feel like you’re part of something special, catching that local San Francisco spirit.

Hidden Gems

Cold Drinks Bar

Hidden inside China Live, this speakeasy-style bar is perfect for those looking for something a bit more upscale or secretive in their night out.

Chinatown’s nightlife isn’t about the big, flashy clubs but more about intimate, character-filled bars where stories unfold over drinks. Whether you’re here for the culture or just to enjoy a night out, Chinatown offers a slice of San Francisco that’s both authentic and incredibly fun.

Shopping in Chinatown

Chinatown offers a much different shopping experience than the rest of San Francisco. The neighborhood is filled with cool, little shops with all kinds of weird and fun items that are fun to walk through even if you really don’t need anything.

Grant Avenue

This is the main drag for tourists, lined with shops selling everything from cheap trinkets to high-quality jade. You’ll find:

Chinatown Kite Shop: If you ever thought that you would never buy a kite, this shop will probably change your mind. Check out a selection of colorful and fun kites of all shapes and sizes.

Ten Ren’s Tea: If you love tea, this place is your temple. They’ve got every variety, and you can even do a tasting.

Vital Tea Leaf: A great place to sample and buy premium Chinese teas

Stockton Street

For a more authentic vibe, hit Stockton. It’s less touristy but packed with:

Herb Shops: Like the Great China Herb Company or Sun Sing Herbs, where you can find traditional Chinese medicines, spices, and fascinating dried goods.

Local Markets: Fresh produce, exotic fruits, and seafood that looks like it just swam in from the ocean.

Fashion and Accessories

The Wok Shop: Not just for cooking enthusiasts; they’ve got an incredible selection of chopsticks, teapots, and kitchenware that doubles as art.

Boutiques: Wander into places like the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory for quirky, handmade items or traditional Chinese garments.

Art Galleries and Antique Shops

Old Shanghai: Here, you can find beautiful art pieces, from paintings to calligraphy, giving you a slice of Chinese art history.

Antique Shops: Look for vintage posters, old records, and sometimes even furniture if you’re into that kind of haul.

Books and Stationery

Eastwind Books: A treasure trove for anyone interested in Asian-American literature or just looking for something different to read.

Music and Instruments

Yuen Hop Noodle Company: Yes, it’s a noodle shop, but upstairs, they have a secret stash of traditional Chinese instruments. Not for sale, but if you’re nice, they might let you play!

Chinatown Arts & Culture

If you’re all about diving deep into art & history, Chinatown in San Francisco has a whole lot of great things to check out.

Chinatown’s Architecture

The first thing you’ll notice is the architecture, a beautiful blend of Eastern and Western styles. The Dragon Gate at Grant Avenue and Bush Street, for instance, is like a portal to another world, with its dragons and lions welcoming you into the heart of Chinatown.

Old St. Mary’s Cathedral

One of the oldest cathedrals in the city, it’s not just a place of worship but a historical landmark, echoing the stories of the Gold Rush era.

Waverly Place

This alley is like stepping back in time with its ornate balconies and temples. The Tin How Temple here is one of the oldest in the U.S., offering spiritual peace and stunning views from its upper floors.

Cultural Centers and Museums

Chinese Cultural Center

Located right in the heart of Chinatown, this center is all about contemporary art from the Asian diaspora. They often have exhibitions that mix traditional with modern, giving you insights into cultural evolution.

Chinese Historical Society of America

This is where history comes alive. With rotating exhibits, you’ll learn about the struggles and triumphs of Chinese Americans, from the Gold Rush to the present day.

Art Installations and Murals

Murals

Chinatown is an open-air gallery with murals that tell stories of resilience, heritage, and community. Waverly Place is particularly famous for its vibrant painted balconies.

Street Art

Keep an eye out for more spontaneous art, like the lanterns that hang during festivals or the occasional pop-up installations celebrating Chinese holidays.

Performing Arts

Great Star Theater

This historic theater is where you can experience traditional Chinese opera. It’s not just a performance; it’s a cultural immersion with costumes and storytelling that have been passed down for centuries.

Cultural Performances

Throughout the year, you might stumble upon lion dances, dragon dances, or traditional music performances, especially during festivals like Chinese New Year or the Autumn Moon Festival.

Artisan Shops and Galleries

Old Shanghai

A must-visit for anyone interested in Chinese art. Here, you can find beautiful paintings, calligraphy, and sometimes even artists at work.

Craft Shops

From handmade kites at the Chinatown Kite Shop to intricate paper cuttings, these places celebrate the art of craftsmanship.

Cultural Workshops

Look out for classes where you can learn traditional arts like calligraphy, paper folding, or even how to play a Chinese musical instrument. These are often hosted by cultural centers or local shops.