Take a closer look at the oldest Chinatown in North America on one of these fascinating San Francisco Chinatown tours.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Perhaps the most famous Chinatown in the United States is a must-visit for anybody looking to tap into the history and food culture of San Francisco. Now spanning around 20 square blocks of the downtown area, there have been Asian eateries and businesses here since the late 1840s. Navigating past the tourist shops to find the most authentic snacks, tea houses and restaurants requires some local expertise, which is where these four excellent tours, selected using criteria such as their value for money and duration, can help.
San Francisco Chinatown Culinary Walking Tour
San Francisco’s Chinatown is best explored through its food, and this 3-hour tour offers a perfect blend of culinary delights and cultural experiences. You’ll sample dim sum and Chinese tea while discovering the flavors that make the neighborhood unique. Along the way, visit a Buddhist temple, explore antique instruments, and tour a fortune cookie factory to learn about this much-loved treat. Running daily, this tour offers a flavorful glimpse into Chinatown and its long history. From $74 per person.
Alcatraz Island & Chinatown Walking Tour
(Photo: GetYourGuide)
This 4-hour guided tour offers a chance to experience two of San Francisco’s key attractions. Begin with a ferry ride to Alcatraz Island, where you’ll take a 45-minute audio tour of the former prison. Hear stories from former inmates and guards as you explore the cells of this notorious landmark. Afterward, return to San Francisco at your convenience. The next stop is Chinatown, where a local guide will lead you through this historic neighborhood. Visit the Dragon Gates, walk the busy streets, and learn about Chinatown’s cultural significance. After the tour, you can linger to try the food, shop at local stores, or explore a temple. From $99 per person.
Chinatown Family Associations, Tongs and Gangs
Beginning in 1849, young Chinese men were drawn to the gold fields of California, only to face harsh discrimination that limited their opportunities. Instead of striking it rich, many were forced into labor jobs or sent back to San Francisco. Settling in the heart of Chinatown, many of these men joined Family Associations, Tongs, and Gangs, organizations that had significant influence in the area. During this 1.5 to 2-hour tour, visitors will take a walk through Chinatown’s narrow, bustling streets and alleys, where the past comes alive in its vibrant, sometimes violent history. Along the way you’ll discover how this community endured and thrived despite the challenges, and learn about the complex dynamics that shaped the neighborhood. Free of charge (donations welcome).