Overview
San Francisco Japantown is the oldest of three remaining Japantowns in the United States and a vibrant cultural hub offering a rich blend of Japanese culture, cuisine, and history. Visitors can explore unique shops, authentic restaurants, and cultural events.
Historically significant as the oldest Japantown in the U.S., it preserves and promotes Japanese American culture and heritage.
Location
Address
Post St & Buchanan St, San Francisco, CA 94108
Neighborhood: Western Addition
Coordinates
37.785700, -122.421400
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-November
Best Time of Day
Mid-morning
Best weather and fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild, pleasant
- • Cherry blossoms
- • Spring festivals
summer
Warm, sometimes hot
- • Outdoor events
- • Summer festivals
autumn
Cool, comfortable
- • Fall colors
- • Cultural events
winter
Cool, sometimes rainy
- • Holiday lights
- • Festive decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check for events
- Bring cash for small shops
- Dress comfortably for walking
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate (walking)
- • Stay hydrated in summer
Medical facilities: Nearby hospitals and clinics
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable walking shoes, Walking shoes, sandals in summer, Inappropriate or overly revealing clothing in some cultural venues
Booking Tips
- • Not usually required, but check for special events
- • Official event websites
- • Varies by event
- • Not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Japantown SF
Size: 20 MB
Features: Event calendar, Map of shops and restaurants, Cultural information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Public areas, some cafes and shops
Charging Stations: Cafes and some shops
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Distance: 22 km
Travel Time: 30-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 3-5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich cultural heritage, unique shopping and dining options
Historical Significance: One of the oldest Japantowns in the U.S., preserving Japanese American history
Insider Tips
- Visit during the week to avoid crowds
- Try the matcha desserts at local cafes
- Explore the smaller shops for unique finds
Local Recommendations
- • Try authentic Japanese sweets at Mochinut
- • Visit the Book Passage for unique books
- • Enjoy a matcha latte at Arigato Mochi
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Japanese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Peace Pagoda
Best Time: Golden hour in the evening
Tips: Capture the pagoda with the city skyline
Result: Stunning sunset views
Japantown's streets
Best Time: Daytime
Tips: Focus on traditional storefronts and decorations
Result: Vibrant cultural shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Alamo Square
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Park
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Distance: 2km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Museum
Haight-Ashbury
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Historic District
Reviews
Based on 10,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit during cherry blossom season"
- "Try the matcha desserts"
- "Explore the smaller shops for unique finds"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
3
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
10,000
Adult Entry
Free to explore, varies by attraction (e.g., $5-$10 for Peace Pagoda)