San Francisco Chinatown Walking Tour

Meet at Old St. Mary's Cathedral, 660 California St., to begin your walking tour of Chinatown's most popular sights and hidden locales. Your guide will highlight the history and culture of Chinatown, explaining how the remarkable authenticity of ancient Chinese culture has been preserved and celebrated in a must-visit San Francisco attraction.(10 min)

Chinatown’s outdoor living room and the birthplace of San Francisco’s first American flag, first public school, and first cable car line.(15 min)

Stroll among the freshest and most exotic foods in the Bay Area at the Stockton Street Food Markets.(15 min)

We’ll sample these “wise crackers” and watch how it’s done.(10 min)

At this exotic dried goods store, you'll see ginseng, bird's nests, gecko lizards, fish bladders, sea cucumbers, abalone and more and hear about what these foods can do for you.(10 min)

Admire architectural details; hear about the history of secret institutions on Waverly Place; and time permitting, visit a secluded Buddhist temple.(10 min)

Stationery store? Party goods supply store? Come with us to discover exactly what this store sells and why.(10 min)

View of an example of pagoda style architecture, common in Asia. But what was here before the bank? At this stop, you'll understand the complexity of the Chinese language, both spoken and written.(10 min)