1) Annual 'Japanese Festivals' are held the same time each year and celebrate a seasonal
or historical Japanese events.
2) 'Obon Festivals' happen during summer over several months and honor those who have
passed away. (June - August)
An important element of Japanese festivals are community involvement and
fundraising opportunity for the organizations . Show your support by attending.
Japanese Summer Obon Festivals occur between June to August.
Obon or just Bon is the most important religious holiday in Japan.
A Japanese Buddhist custom to honor the spirits of one's ancestors
and returning to one's family roots.
Everything You Need to Know About San Francisco On One Page
There are four official Japan towns in the US, and San Francisco is the largest of them. The town is known as the
hub of Japanese culture.
Japan is not different from other Asian countries where culture is highly held. And if you have ever come across
these cultures, you should know how important they are. They are represented in every country as unique.
San Francisco stands as one of the best tourist attractions in California. It is there vital that you understand
the town to get around with ease. Getting the best out of your vacation here will depend on how best you understand
the town. This guide will make your visit worth the time and the money.
Where Are the Four Official Japantowns in the United States?
What is a Japantown? It is a community place for Japanese businesses, temples, and markets that
brings together a neighborhood of Japanese organizations, people, Japanese language, schools, events, and festivals.
There Are Four official Japantowns in the United Sates.
If you are coming to San Francisco by car you need to find parking. You can park on the street and pay a meter, private garages or go
to the mall and park at the Japan Center Garage. The Japan Center Garage may be the easiest and most convenient place to park in
San Francisco Japantown.
It is safe to walk around during the daytime, but at night you should always be concerned and aware of your surroundings.
Don't walk around by yourself in unknown areas or where there is no people.
Some Wallet/Purse Tips (If stolen or lost)
• Don't cary alot of cash
• Carry 2 credit cards (Write down Credit Card name/phone)
• Learn to add your credit cards to your phone
• Secure your phone with passcode
Some Car Tips (If broken into)
• Don't anything in front & back seats
• Don't leave any bags showing
Don't Forget To Bring the Following if Traveling to San Francisco Japantown
•
Metro FastTrak Transponder for Car
Access to Freeway Lanes to bypass traffic (Los Angeles, San Francisco)
• Cash: some places only accept cash (Bridge tools in San Francisco, if you don't have FastTrak)
• Phone Holder for your car
• Phone Charger, extra phone cables
• Camera, batteries, video camera
• Clothing: Jacket & pants (Fall Weather), walking shoes
• Coins: street parking meters
What is the History of San Francisco Japantown?
The writing of San Francisco dates back to as old as 1855, starting with Van Ness Ordinance. The now Japantown (Nihomachi)
was not always a habitat for the Japanese from the beginning. The neighborhood stands about one mile west of the Union
Square and is part of the San Francisco's Western Addition. This subdivision also started appearing at the same time.
Before this, the land was barren and sandy. There were no people in the area, and the only sign of life was small animals
like bobcats, rabbits, quail, and chaparral. In the 1870s, San Franciscans started occupying the area. Slowly by slowly,
more people started finding the place worth of occupation.
The first signs of human life and development started with different types of homes. But the Victorian influence was
predominant in the region. The Western Addition was bordered to the East by the Van Ness Avenue was served as the
breakpoint of the 1906 fire caused by the great earthquake witnessed then. That was one of the biggest tragedies
of hit the neighborhood, causing the displacement of very many people.
The Western Addition, fortunately, remained intact. It was completely unaffected by the fire. And for that reason, it
served as a haven for the bulk of those whose homes were burned. At this time, the population was even thinner since
most had perished in the fire. The nearby parks served as a great area for erecting tent villages to provide emergency
accommodation for the victims. The following few months saw these crowded families moving into small apartments built
by the Western Addition homeowners. They took on in the attics, basements, and wings of their homes making the place
overcrowded. Property owners started raising their houses and added stores under them. Apart from the homes, the need
for commercial building created a business community alongside the homes.
People from different places came in to stay with this community that was already too crowded. This is where the mixed
land use started from. Later, restaurants, theatres, saloons, and hotels started coming up in the area. As it was to
be expected, the area was now fully functioning as a business hub. This attracted more visitors to join the community
which never stopped growing after that.
When Did the Japanese People First Immigrant to San Francisco?
This is the most important question when unveiling the history of this Japantown. Why is it called Japantown? The
Japanese immigrants refer to San Francisco as Soko, and the first person from Japan arrived here in the 1860s. At that time,
Chinatown served as the home for most Asians. The neighborhoods south of Market Street, which includes South Park
and the whole area surrounding the current San Francisco Shopping Centre, were also a place for the Asians. Most
Japanese immigrants who came to the US become more acquainted with these areas.
When the earthquake broke in 1906, the aftermath was so devastating that the Japanese immigrants were forced to move from their homes
and occupying the Western Addition. More and more Japanese started moving here, building churches and shrines. They
typically opened Japanese shops and restaurants which soon established roots. Because of this, the neighborhoods become
more Japanese, taking on the character and style of the Japanese culture. Before long, the area becomes a miniature Ginza
called Nihonmachi, otherwise Japantown. The San Francisco's Japanese American community established its roots here since then.
Japanese Immigrants and World War II in San Francisco Japantown
The World War II happened that brought turmoil to everything. All the Japanese Americans in San Francisco and from other
West Coast communities were uprooted as a result. This was the darkest moments in the history of the US.
After the War in San Francisco Japantown
After the war, many Americans of the Japanese origin started coming back to the city trying to reestablish their lives.
They picked up the pieces to build we know today as San Francisco. At the time of this writing, there are more than 12,000
Japanese Americans in the town while about 80,000 have established their lives in greater Bay Area.
Future Changes in San Francisco Japantown
Even though San Francisco is known as Japan town, most of those who dwell here are not Japanese. Due to multi-culturalism,
the town is now a home for people from different cultures and nationalist.
Development has taken center stage as new and ultra-modern building keeping coming up each day. Recent years has seen great
changes taking place here. Perhaps the most recent and noticeable change is the opening of bona fide, elegant hotels, great
neighborhood and a lure for tourists.
The best thing is, the Japanese culture is still held and practiced highly even though most are born here an speak English.
Different initiatives like special weeks to observe the culture have been set up to remind the current generation of where
they are coming from.
The revamp of Hotel Kabuki along the 1625 street is clear evidence of the revolution taking place here. The town is becoming
more and more westernized. People are shifting further from cultural ties and becoming integrated into modernity.
Despite these changes, San Francisco is bound to remain a Japantown. The beauty of the town originates from the Japanese culture.
It will continue to thrive and develop but with a hint of the Japanese culture.
Where Did All the Japanese Go in San Francisco?
Development is happening everywhere. As time goes by, people start moving to different places trying to make ends meet. A
single place becomes unaccommodating forcing the people to move out.
San Francisco is no different as many Japanese have left to look for work and other things elsewhere. It is only the best way
to keep up with the changing times.
Modernity has fully taken over culture. Apart from this, it is important for people to find another source of livelihood elsewhere
if they are not getting it from a single source. But this does not stop the town from shining on beauty and glory of the Japanese people.
What is the Weather like San Francisco Japantown?
San Francisco is very cold in summer. Those who travel here without understanding their weather often end up in trouble. Many cheap
sweatshirt shops are thriving because most tourists don't take weather consideration very seriously.
Find the Right Place to Stay in San Francisco
We can tell you for free that hotels along Van Ness and Lombard streets are good but not ideal. They are sometimes very noisy.
The best place would be the Union Square and Fisherman's Wharf.
Ways To Save Your Money While in San Francisco
Know how to save money in San Francisco. There are different aspects include transportation, attractions, tours, and hotels
you should keep in mind.
Don't Wait Till Last Minute for Reservations to San Francisco Japantown
Making a trip to San FRancisco, two weeks before the trip is enough time to make a reservation. Tours fill up first especially during the pick seasons. Visit hotels'
concierge or try out ticket offices to avoid disappointment at the last moment.
If You Visit San Francisco Get a Tour Guide or Check Our Tips
You are going to need a tour guide for you to enjoy your visit to San Francisco. Though you can go alone, it is better to have someone showing you the best
places. Many tour guides promise greatness but deliver less. Use a small, local company for a private tour.
Is There a Walking Tour to Explore San Francisco Japantown?
The Japantown History Walk was to teach about the unique historical and cultural significance of the space the Nikkei community has established in Japantown over the past 110 years.
Where Does the Walking Tour in San Francisco Japantown Start?
The Japantown History Walk tour starts at Peace Plaza by JapanCenter Mall West Entrance.
Are There Japanese Restaurants in San Francisco Japantown?
This is a Japantown full of restaurants that are top rated. But they are not all fancy; some can be quite disappointing.
Look at our lists and look for the word "Authentic" for our picks.
Tips for Visiting San Francisco Japantown, California
Are you planning on visiting San Francisco Japantown? We have the tips and secrets to save you time in what to eat and where to go.
There are places in San Francisco you don't want to miss.
San Francisco Japantown is broken down in the following areas.
1) Japantown Peace Plaza
You can really start anywhere in San Francisco Japantown. One of our recomendation is to start at Peace Plaza and the where the
mall entrace says Japan Center - West Mall entrace.
Peace Pagoda. This historical monument has been a great inspiration from the pagodas in Nara, the ancient Japan capital.
It is a donation that was made by the city of Osaka as a gesture for generosity. Each year, different Japanese
event celebrations are held here.
2) Kintetsu Mall (West Mall) Next to Japantown Peace Plaza
Once you enter the West Mall entrace, you will see a map that shows where you are. Also it will show you a "Self-Guided History Walk" of
San Francisco Japantown. This will be one of the easiest ways to see the area. Make sure you take a photo of the Map so you can remember
where to stop.
The Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco is less than 15 minute drive from San Francisco's Japantown.
The garden was first created for the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition, and it was so popular that it became a permanent feature of Golden Gate Park. Today, it's one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
The garden is home to a variety of Japanese plants and trees, including cherry blossoms, maples, and bamboo. There's also a koi pond, a waterfall, and a traditional Japanese tea house.
Japantown has great quirky shops filled with great finds which makers and lovers of creative works find intriguing. These include the Kinokuniya
bookshop, Daiso Japan dollar shop, Aloha Warehouse for Hawaiian sweets, hula supplies, apparel, and ukuleles. The Katsura garden is a nice place to
find yourself a bonsai tree. And for all your home supply needs, visit the Ichiban Kan.
Japan Center Mall, Japantown
Japan Center Mall is a shopping center located in the heart of one of San Francisco's most vibrant neighborhoods. The mall was built in 1968 and has since grown
to be an important part of Japanese culture in the city. Featuring several floors of shopping, restaurants, services, and entertainment, it is a great place to explore
Japanese culture and products. From traditional Japanese crafts to contemporary fashion, there is something for everyone here.
The mall also hosts many different events and festivals throughout the year that bring people together to celebrate Japanese culture. From
traditional tea ceremonies and bon odori festivals to health and wellness seminars, there is always something going on at Japan Center Mall
San Francisco Japantown. There are also several restaurants on-site that serve traditional Japanese dishes and specialties, as well as a
variety of cafes and convenience stores. Visitors can also find an array of gift shops and souvenir stores throughout the mall.
The mall is conveniently located right in the heart of San Francisco's Japantown neighborhood, making it easily accessible by both car and public
transportation. It is also within walking distance of many attractions, such as the Museum of Modern Art and the Golden Gate Park. Japan Center
Mall San Francisco Japantown is a great place to experience all that Japanese culture has to offer in the heart of one of San Francisco's most
vibrant neighborhoods.
Hotels & Places to Stay in San Francisco Japantown
Japantown has been hit by a wave of modern structures with great, fashionable hotels. Hotel Kabuki along 1625 Post Street is one of the most contemporary
hotels. It has a great design; open spaces that lure will lure anyone in and fresh cocktail bar & restaurant serving great drinks.
But that is not the only place with goodies and everything attractive. Hotel Buchanan along the 1800 Sutter Street is another site to behold. You
find the tchotchke styling of the hotel showing a unique style of interiors by Nicole Hollis. There is plenty of whiskeys here.
The secret here is to find a place convenient enough to access the city as well as all the right place you wish to visit.
Top Things to Do in San Francisco Japantown
When you arrive, don't just look at the Golden Gate Bridge, get your foot on the ground and walk on it.
Before you even get there, visit the top attraction for those who love excellent meals in the city-the ferry building marketplace.
For recreation, get to the Golden Gate Park and have enjoyed your time. This is a popular place with the locals.
Visit the Exploratorium, the hands-on, laboratory where children and adults alike can learn something. This is an excellent museum with over
600 interactive exhibits on a wide range of historical subjects.
Cable cars are a great attraction in San Francisco. If you have been only seeing them in movies, this is your time to experience in real life.
Japantown is full of top rated restaurants. Get into the mood for some Sushi, noodles and more. Visit places like Suzu Noodle house, Udon
Mugizo, and Kui Shin Bo.
What is the Most Popular Japanese Events in San Francisco Japantown?
July
The San Francisco Buddhist Church will be holding its annual Ginza Bazaar & Bon Odori in July. The Ginza Bazaar will feature many food booths such as
teriyaki chicken, sushi, udon, BBQ ribs, curry, and homemade baked goods. In addition, silent auction, children's games, a boutique featuring many homemade
crafts and clothing, tea salon, and bingo. On Saturday afternoon, there will be a kendo (Japanese martial art of swordsmanship) demonstration and Japanese
kamishibai (storytelling) performance.
The best way to get around Japantown San Francisco is to go car-free. It is not only an environmental statement,
but it is also the best choice you can ever make. Parking fee in San Francisco is quite expensive. Hotels charge a
fortune for parking, yet most of the attractive places are close together, you don't need a car.
Use public transport, Uber and Taxis - it is more convenient. And if you must use a car, then get a rental car for
a day or so.
And if you want to avoid all of that, then pick a good tour guide. That will save on cash as well as time.
Top 20 Things To Do & See in San Francisco?
Things that are not Japanese Related
1. Visit the Golden Gate Bridge
2. Ride a cable car
3. Eat at Fisherman's Wharf
4. See the sea lions at Pier 39
5. Visit Alcatraz Island
6. Explore Chinatown
7. Take a ferry ride to Sausalito
8. Shop at Union Square
9. Visit Ghirardelli Square
10. See the Painted Ladies in Alamo Square
11. Watch a Giants game at AT&T Park
12. Take a walk through Golden Gate Park
13. Visit Muir Woods
14. Drive down Highway 1
15. Explore the Presidio
16. Visit the Mission District
17. Eat at Zuni Café
18. Visit the de Young Museum
19. See the California Academy of Sciences
20. Watch a movie at the Castro Theatre
What Other Japantowns Can You Visit and See in the United States?
Apart from San Francisco Japantown, there are three other official Japantowns in the US. They are Little Tokyo, San Jose and Sawtelle. When
you finish checking out San Francisco, these are three other Japantowns you may want to put on your list. Enjoy your visit.
What Are the Future Changes in San Francisco Japantown?
Proposed Future Changes for San Francisco Peace Plaza - Pagoda
2024 San Francisco's Japantown Best Restaurants, Attractions and Shopping
Plus SF Japanese Restaurants Outside of Japantown San Francisco
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2024 San Francisco's Best Sushi Restaurants in San Francisco Japantown
Looking for Fresh Sushi
Benihana (San Francisco)Welcome to Benihana in San Francisco, California, where you’ll find a dining experience unlike any other! Our guests are seated at communal hibachi grill tables in groups, where your personal chef w...
Chika & Sake, San FranciscoCome relax and enjoy at our cozy small bar and tables with 70-80s Japan themed antique decor. Kanpai!!
Ebisu, San FranciscoFor 30 years Steve Fujii and his wife Koko have created a San Francisco landmark restaurant that has continued to grow and flourish. Today there are 2 Ebisu locations; one is San Francisco's Sunset Di...
Omakase, San FranciscoOmakase now accepts reservations though Tock, offering one fixed price menu at $195 per person. The culinary journey you experience at Omakase will introduce you to the many flavors of Japanese cuisin...
Sanraku, San Francisco (Est. 1989)SANRAKU restaurant was founded in 1989, specializing in first class quality Japanese cuisine. In 1992 we added our upscale room next door, including a new Sushi bar.Authentic Japanese cuisine and the ...
Total: 6
2024 San Francisco's Best Ramen, Udon, Shabu Shabu Restaurants
Best Ramen in Japantown SF
1) Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup dish popular throughout the world.
2) Udon (うどん or 饂飩) is a thick noodle made from wheat flour.
3) Shabu-shabu is a Japanese hotpot dish of thinly sliced meat, vegetables boiled in water.
Marugame Udon, San FranciscoMarugame Udon provides hand crafted udon bowls, tempura, and beverages from a theater kitchen, allowing guests to watch as their food is prepared. Our udon noodles are made to order to ensure that you...
Waraku RamenRamen brooth is brewed for 16 hours!Starters: agedashi tofu, karaage, takoyaki, edamame, calamari, Picks: Tonkatsu Ramen, Shoyu Ramen, Roasted garlic tonkotsu ramenParking: Validate in Japantown Mal...
Total: 3
2024 San Francisco's Best Authentic Japanese Desserts
Where You Can Get Fresh Sushi
Japanese Tea Garden - San Francisco (Inside Golden Gate Park)Today, the Japanese Tea Garden endures as one of the most popular attractions in San Francisco, featuring classic elements such as an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths,...
2024 San Francisco's Best Japanese Restaurant in SF (Various Food Dishes)
More Delicious Japanese Food Choices To Try
Benihana (San Francisco)Welcome to Benihana in San Francisco, California, where you’ll find a dining experience unlike any other! Our guests are seated at communal hibachi grill tables in groups, where your personal chef w...
Japan Center Garage (Parking)Conveniently located in San Francisco's colorful Japantown, the Japan Center Garage and its Fillmore Street Annex provide reasonably priced indoor parking for 920 cars beneath the landmark Japan Cente...
Yakitori Edomasa (Est 1924)Since its humble beginnings as a small stall started by Masaji Watanabe in 1924, Edomasa has been grilling delicious Yakitori, skewered chicken, in the heart of Tokyo's Chuo Ward, near the historic Ry...
San Francisco - Japantown (Peace Plaza)San Francisco's Japantown, nestled within the vibrant cityscape, offers a unique cultural experience that celebrates Japanese heritage and community. At its heart lies the Peace Plaza, a bustling gath...
Takada GalleryTakada Gallery, in downtown San Francisco, specializes in minimal and abstract art from Japan and the West Coast.Founded in 1987, Takada represents artists whose works are of museum quality. He can al...
Tokaido ArtTokaido Arts has been providing collectors, dealers, and museums from around the world with Japanese woodblock prints and fine Asian art for almost fifty years. All sales are guaranteed as described a...
Japan Center Malls (East Mall & West Mall) - San FranciscoFounded in 1906, San Francisco’s Japantown was the first Japanese American community to settle and establish itself in the United States. San Francisco’s Japantown (Nihonmachi) has been the center...
Japantown CollectiblesJapantown Collectibles place for anime, import toys, hobbies, and more. Located in San Francisco's Japan Center Mall.
Soko HardwareStore with a home theme.Stuff from: woodworking tools, paper lanterns, chopsticks, gardening supplies, cooking equipment, Japanese ceramics.
Total: 9
2024 San Francisco's Best Authentic Japanese Gardens
The Most Beautiful (Hidden) Japanese Gardens in San Francisco
Hotel Kabuki (Japanese Garden)Hotel Kabuki is a unique and elegant hotel located in the Japantown neighborhood of San Francisco, California. One of its standout features is the beautiful Japanese garden that surrounds the property...
Japanese Tea Garden - San Francisco (Inside Golden Gate Park)Today, the Japanese Tea Garden endures as one of the most popular attractions in San Francisco, featuring classic elements such as an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths,...
Hotel Kabuki (Japanese Garden)Hotel Kabuki is a unique and elegant hotel located in the Japantown neighborhood of San Francisco, California. One of its standout features is the beautiful Japanese garden that surrounds the property...
Kimpton Buchanan Hotel, JapantownInspired by the surrounding Japantown neighborhood, Kimpton Enso Hotel offers a sense of Zen amid the hustle and bustle of the city. Ideal for curious travelers who enjoy getting off the beaten path, ...
Total: 2
2024 San Francisco's Japanese Buddhist Temples
Founded in 1898, the Buddhist Church of San Francisco was the first Jodo Shinshu (Pure Land) Buddhist temple established in the continental United States and is the flagship temple of the Buddhist Churches of America (BCA).
Buddhist Church of San Francisco (SF)Founded in 1898, this church is the oldest Jodo Shinshu (Pure Land) Buddhist temple that is affiliated with the Buddhist Churches of America (BCA). Buddhism is founded on the teachings of Sakyamuni Bu...
Buddhist Temple of MarinHere at the Buddhist Temple of Marin we are followers of Jodo Shinshu Pure Land Buddhism. Our Sangha is made up of members from all over the state and visitors from all over the world who practice thi...
Konko Church of San FranciscoKonko Church of San Francisco is a religious institution based in San Francisco, California. It is affiliated with the Konkokyo religion, also known as Konko Faith or Konkokyo Faith, which originated ...
Total: 3
2024 San Francisco's Things To Do & See (Not Japanese)
While in San Francisco Don't Miss These Places
Alcatraz IslandIsland of Incarceration, Island of FreedomAlcatraz reveals stories of American incarceration, justice, and our common humanity. This small island was once a fort, a military prison, and a maximum secu...
Chinatown Gate, San Francisco (Bush Street and Grant Avenue)San Francisco Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown in North America and the largest Chinatown outside of Asia. It is the history, culture, and cuisine that make this place so unique.San Francisco Chinato...
Golden Gate BridgeThere are many places to view the Golden Gate Bridge from the Golden Gate National Parks, including our Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center. If you can't make it there today or are planning your trip to...
San Francisco Cable Car - Fisherman's WharfSan Francisco’s cable cars are symbolic of the charm and distinct flavor of the city. In no other place can you ride a moving national historic monument.Fisherman’s Wharf is served by two cable ca...
San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Fisherman's Wharf is a historic district and popular tourist destination in San Francisco, California. It is located at the northern end of the city's waterfront along the San Francisco Bay. The wharf...
San Francisco Pier 39 (Sea Lions)Head to PIER 39 to explore a variety of attractions exclusive to The PIER. Sail the Bay aboard one of PIER 39’s many water attractions, then discover 20,000 local sea creatures at Aquarium of the Ba...
San Francisco Union SquareSan Francisco Union Square is a 2.6-acre public plaza that abuts Geary Street and Stockton Street in Union Square, San Francisco. The square's main feature is a three-story, 48,000 square foot glass-e...
Total: 7
2024 San Francisco's Help and Support
Questions About San Francisco's Japantown
Japanese Cultural & Community Center of North Calif - JCCCNC (Main)The Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California (JCCCNC) stands as a vibrant and essential hub for Japanese culture, heritage, and community in the region. Nestled in the heart of No...
Nichi Bei Foundation (Est. 1899)The Nichi Bei Foundation is a non-profit organization that was established in 1899. The foundation has a rich history rooted in the Japanese American community and aims to preserve and promote the cul...
Union Bank (Japantown)Union Bank has been serving communities for 150 years. As a global bank, our bilingual English and Japanese dedicated customer service unit personnel and bankers at select branches are able to provide...
Total: 3
San Francisco Japantown Most Popular Festivals Events
May Include Other San Francisco Festivals & Events
Tickets are now on sale for Japanese Heritage Night with the San Francisco Giants on Friday, May 16 at 7:15... [Event Details]
Total: 7
What Other Japantowns Can You Visit and See in the United States?
Apart from Japantown San Francisco, there are three other official Japantowns in the US. They are San Jose, Little Tokyo and Sawtelle. When
you finish checking out Little Tokyo, these are two other places you may want to put on your list. Enjoy your visit.
We will have the complete guide and tips to help you.