Self Guided Walking Tour of San Francisco Chinatown

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.