Any exploration of San Francisco would be incomplete without experiencing “The City within the City” join us outside the “Dragon’s Gate” and discover the beginnings of Chinatown. High energy shopping and bartering for all your souvenir needs.
Visiting important landmarks we uncover stories and events that helped bridge the cultural divergence of East and West. “Old St, Mary’s Cathedral” in the heart of Chinatown goes hand in hand with the evolution of Chinatown and San Francisco.
Not to worry, we promised historical accounts and food! Eastern Bakery, where we can start to dig in and get our appetites going. Mooncakes, pork buns, rice candy, and much more to choose from.
We will flow with the pedestrian traffic navigating our way through the hustle and bustle of everyday commerce. Why go to an aquarium? Visit Chinatown’s competitive seafood markets and see all the many varieties of fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and more. Everyday shoppers flood the streets for produce, medicinal herbs, and of course Dim Sum.
Walking and talking builds the appetite. Time for another snack and break. It is no easy task making your way through the press of pedestrian traffic in Chinatown. Being well versed in the ins and outs of street navigation, our guides will safely deliver you to “Delicious Dim Sum.” Not just a statement, but an actual location. We will further indulge our sense of taste as we sample, Pork Siu Mai, Shrimp Dumplings, Steamed Pork Buns, and of course Pot stickers.
The facades of buildings, art, furniture, and images all follow the chinoiserie of 18th-century Western art. Most noticeable are the red lanterns that hang from buildings and span the streets. These lanterns symbolize booming life and prosperity in all business ventures.
Following back alleyways and side streets we make it to the “Golden Gate Fortune Cookies Company Factory”, where we will conclude our tour.
Who doesn’t want a fortune cookie? Not only do we get to sample, but we get to see the process by which these iconic treats are created.
San Francisco’s Chinatown is said to be the oldest and largest Chinese community outside of China. Whether that is indeed true or not is unimportant. The rich history and unparalleled commitment to community is what sets San Francisco’s Chinatown apart. To this day, traditions old and new are actively being lived and honored. Come, let us share with you our experience!
Check availability for the Chinatown Food & History Walking Tour – Small Group
If you want to see more content from San Francisco and discover more follow us on social media;
Sign up for our newsletter here.