When it comes to San Francisco’s many neighborhoods, few are as special as Japantown. The Japantown in San Francisco is one of just three Japantowns remaining in the United States today, with dozens having been shut down during World War II. Not only is San Francisco’s Japantown deeply rooted in culture and history, but it’s also a fun area to explore. The very walkable, family-friendly neighborhood could be the destination of your next family outing or even your future residence. Find out what this distinct neighborhood has to offer.

Shopping

 Interior view of a mall in the historical Japantown photo by Shutterstock

Kinokuniya is the perfect spot to visit if you want to celebrate your inner bookworm. This hidden gem mostly stocks Japanese books, but you’ll also find a wide array of English books. The bookstore also offers a children’s section, as well as a large section devoted to anime and manga. If you want to learn more about Japanese pop culture, this is the place to go.

Are you a fan of origami or paper crafts? This beautiful Japanese art is the bread and butter of Paper Tree. The Mihara family, who run the shop, are masters at this delicate craft, and you’ll want to stop by to check out their amazing creations, and perhaps pick up some paper so you can give it a try for yourself. You can also purchase some handmade cards for the next birthday party or shower you’re attending.

Food Scene

Kitsune Udon Noodle

If you’re in search of some of the best ramen that San Francisco has to offer, then you’ll want to dine at Marufuku Ramen. Expect a long line, but the food is worth the wait. The creamy and flavorful tonkotsu ramen is as comforting as it is delicious.

Craving afternoon tea, but can’t afford a plane ticket to London? Enjoy English high tea with a Japanese twist at Crown and Crumpet. This tea house serves traditional mini sandwiches, macarons, and cupcakes, complete with luxurious tableware and a lovely Japanese vibe.

For a taste of authentic Japanese yakisoba–a delicious noodle dish filled with mushroom, pork, and carrots–check out Tanpopo. The yakisoba is this joint’s stand-out dish, and it’s also a great spot for getting a glimpse of Japanese television or doing some people-watching.

Dessert

Photo courtesy of Uji Time

Okay, so dessert counts as food, but we value sweets so much that we thought dessert deserved its own category here. Plus, Japantown has no shortage of cures for your sweet tooth. At Belly Good Cafe and Crepes, you can chow down on sweet crepes topped with fruit and ice cream. The crepes are so cute, complete with little animals and smiley faces, that you’ll want to snap a photo for Instagram before digging in.

Benkyodo Co. is another great spot that serves traditional Japanese desserts, primarily mochi. The chewy dessert made from rice is filled with red bean, ice cream, or other sweet fillings—you won’t be able to stop at just one.

For a Japanese fish-shaped pancake filled with matcha or black sesame ice cream, stop by Uji Time—we promise there’s nothing fishy about these delicious desserts.

Attractions and Activities

Peace Plaza photo courtesy of Ken Lund

Want to hang out in the sun and let your kids run around a little? The Peace Plaza is the perfect spot to hang out. Admire the Peace Pagoda in one corner of the plaza—it was a gift from San Francisco’s sister city of Osaka, Japan. The plaza also plays host to many cultural exhibitions and events throughout the year. Stay informed about what’s coming up on the SF Japantown website.

Do you love a good selfie? Check out the collection of photo booths at Pika Pika. Take photos of yourself, your family, and your friends, then decorate the photos digitally with all kinds of cute slogans, stamps, and doodles. You’ll want to make copies and pass them out to your fellow travelers as a memento of your day in Japantown.