The Chinatown in San Francisco has a great history. It was established in 1848 and is the oldest Chinatown in North America and the largest Chinese community outside Asia. If you will look up the Wikipedia, you will find a great article about San Francisco’s Chinatown and it’s history and culture. But we want to introduce you this list of 7 reasons why you should visit Chinatown now! Si comfortably and enjoy.
1. Chinatown Gate
Chinatown Gate or The Dragon Gate is located at Bush Street in Chinatown. In the old days, this gate was like an entrance to the Chinatown. And when entering the district, you will see elaborate 1920s streetlights. Very beautiful. There are several Chinese gates across the country, but this one has efficient items in design, that you can’t mess up with another gate. By the way, it was built in 1970 and has inscribed with the saying: “All under heaven is for the good of the people,” by Dr. Sun Yat-sen
Information
- Name: Chinatown Gate
- Address: Bush Street
- Price: Free
2. Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory
Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory was built in 1962 and is told to be the largest factory supplying fortune cookies around the world. We are sure you have seen at least once the cookies or even ate. The factory is one of the “geekiest” places in San Francisco. Besides, if you are planning a family trip, visit this unique place.
Information
- Name: Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory
- Address: 56 Ross Alley, San Francisco, CA
- Opening hour:8z;00am – 6:00 pm
- Website: http://www.sanfranciscochinatown.com/attractions/ggfortunecookie.html
- Phone: 415 781 3956
3. Waverly Place
Waverly place is one of the greatest streets in Chinatown. It is full of picturesque temples, including Tien Hau. If you are a history lover, or just enjoy exploring the history of other countries and cultures, this place is a must see in your list. Another thing about Waverly place is that you can get a haircut there just for $6.
Information
- Name: Waverly Place
- Address: Waverly Pl, San Francisco, CA 94108
- Price: Free
4. Chinese Historical Society of America
Chinese Historical Society of America is the oldest and largest archive of the Chinese American history in the US. It is listed on #176 of 485 things to do in San Francisco in TripAdvisor. If you look at the reviews, take a note that almost all people enjoy the museum! The exhibitions are great and unique. So, don’t waste the opportunity.
Information
- Name: Chinese Historical Society of America
- Address: 965 Clay Street, Chinatown, San Francisco, CA 94108
- Opening hour: 12:00pm – 5:00pm
- Website: http://chsa.org/
- Phone: 415 391 1188
5. Autumn Moon Festival
Autumn Moon festival take place on September 19-20 in San Francisco Chinatown. One of the reasons for having this Moon festival is dated back to 1991 as the way to return visitors to the Chinatown. It was done after 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake that hurt San Francisco Bay Area economy. Now, you have an opportunity to see very beautiful ceremony of Chinese culture once a year.
Information
- Name: Autumn Moon Festival
- Address: rant Ave. between California and Broadway Streets
- Price: Free
- Website: http://www.moonfestival.org/
6. Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year is San Fransisco’s fanciest and largest festival. The celebration includes an outstanding parade featuring a 160-foot-long dragon and other things as street fairs and music events. If you are going to spend some time in San Francisco, be sure to get in the right time. Don’t miss Lunar New Year if you have the opportunity to celebrate in the right place and with the great people.
Information
- Name:Chinese New Year
- Address: Chinatown
- Price: Free
- Opening hour: Monday, February 8
7. Buddhas Universal Church
It is not the greatest place in San Francisco though it is the largest Buddhist church in the country. It was built in 1961 and is a massive building, from which you will get a great view over the whole city. It is one of the places you want to visit with the family. It will be a must see the place for religious people.
Information
- Name: Buddhas Universal Church
- Address: 720 Washington St, San Francisco, CA 94108
- Website: http://www.bucsf.com/
- Phone: (415) 982-6116
We hope you liked our 7 reasons why you should visit Chinatown. You will totally enjoy it, as Chinatown is a great part of the San Francisco’s history.
Have a good trip and travel!
