Sanjo-dori Street - cars parked on street in between buildings during daytime
1 / 10

Sanjo-dori Street

4.6
·491k reviews·Nara, Japan

A bustling hub in San Ysidro, known for its diverse eateries, shopping, and proximity to the border crossing.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Sanjo-dori Street - cars parked on street in between buildings during daytime

Sanjo-dori Street

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling hub in San Ysidro, known for its diverse eateries, shopping, and proximity to the border crossing.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Discover delicious and affordable ramen, explore vibrant shopping, and easily access downtown San Diego via trolley."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Border Lane Switch

Driving back? Left lanes now lead to the San Ysidro border. Check signs carefully!

🍜 Delicious Ramen Finds

Discover great ramen spots in Plaza Las Americas Mall. Affordable and tasty!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Plaza Las Americas Mall

Plaza Las Americas Mall

San Ysidro

A vibrant hub for diverse food options, including highly-rated ramen and a lively atmosphere.

San Ysidro Border Crossing

San Ysidro Border Crossing

San Ysidro

A key transit point with evolving traffic patterns, offering insights into cross-border movement.

Local Street Food Scene

Local Street Food Scene

Various locations

Experience authentic flavors and unique culinary finds, often praised for their quality and affordability.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Border Crossing

If driving, be aware of lane changes for border access. The left two lanes now lead to the San Ysidro border crossing. Plan for potential wait times, especially during peak hours.

Discovering Local Flavors

Explore the diverse culinary scene, from authentic ramen to local cafes. Many spots offer great value, making it an affordable dining experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, dining options
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Border lane switch to reduce the amount of people cutting the line. Use the left two lanes to get to the San Ysidro border now.
@travel_mexico_group
21.4K likes • 368.1K views

🚗 Border Lane Switch

Driving back? Left lanes now lead to the San Ysidro border. Check signs carefully! TikTok

🍜 Delicious Ramen Finds

Discover great ramen spots in Plaza Las Americas Mall. Affordable and tasty! TikTok

Seoul Street Food in San Ysidro, California inside the Plaza Las Americas Mall. Great ramen different falvors, realy cool vibes. Not expensive at all. #fy #fyp #goodvibes #mexicantiktok #hiddengem #sandiegolife #plazalasamericas #ramennoodles #sanysidro #thingstodowithkids #familytime @KiTi007 @PatiPasteles🧁*PATTYCAKEZ* @Rebecca @Whatayear @Julian Barrios @Ari @Homero palomino @Giselle
@soymanny3
4.6K likes • 91.4K views
Cómo ir de la garita de San Ysidro al centro de San Diego 🚆 #sandiegocalifornia #sandiego #downtown #trolley #garitasanysidro
@erickkksnchz
3.1K likes • 76.8K views

🚊 Trolley to Downtown

Easy and affordable way to reach downtown San Diego from San Ysidro. TikTok

🛍️ Explore Covered Shopping

Look for shotengai (covered shopping areas) for a unique local experience. Reddit

reddit.com

Trying to find the name of the Kyoto area I was in, 14 years ago

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Border Lane Switch

Driving back? Left lanes now lead to the San Ysidro border. Check signs carefully! TikTok

🍜 Delicious Ramen Finds

Discover great ramen spots in Plaza Las Americas Mall. Affordable and tasty! TikTok

🚊 Trolley to Downtown

Easy and affordable way to reach downtown San Diego from San Ysidro. TikTok

🛍️ Explore Covered Shopping

Look for shotengai (covered shopping areas) for a unique local experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise San Ysidro for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse, affordable culinary scene, especially the highly-rated ramen. The convenience of the trolley for reaching downtown San Diego is also a significant plus. However, some find parking challenging and border crossing wait times can be unpredictable.

What People Like

Affordable and delicious food
Lively atmosphere
Convenient trolley access

What People Dislike

Parking difficulties
Border wait times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can take the trolley from San Ysidro to downtown San Diego. Purchase a card from the machines and load it with fare. The journey is affordable and convenient. TikTok

When driving back towards the border, be aware that the lane configuration has changed. The left two lanes now direct you to the San Ysidro border crossing. TikTok

Yes, the trolley system is a primary mode of public transport connecting San Ysidro to other parts of San Diego. TikTok

While difficult to guarantee, traveling during off-peak hours or weekdays might reduce wait times. Be aware of lane changes to ensure you're in the correct queue. TikTok

Parking can be challenging and expensive near the border. It's often recommended to use public transport or rideshare services if possible.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Sanjo-dori Street itself is a public thoroughfare and does not require an entry ticket. However, individual shops, restaurants, or attractions within the area may have their own admission fees or cover charges.

Operating hours vary significantly by establishment. Most shops are open from late morning to early evening, while restaurants often stay open later. It's best to check the specific hours for any place you plan to visit.

While not as common as in some other tourist hubs, local events or seasonal markets can occasionally take place. Checking local event listings closer to your visit is advisable.

No, Plaza Las Americas Mall is a public shopping center and does not have an admission fee. You can freely enter and explore its shops and dining options. TikTok

While some businesses may accept US dollars, it's generally recommended to use Mexican Pesos for transactions in San Ysidro to ensure fair pricing and avoid potential exchange rate issues.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Sanjo-dori Street offers a diverse culinary landscape, including numerous cafes, restaurants serving local and international cuisine, and street food vendors. TikTok

Yes, Plaza Las Americas Mall in San Ysidro is known for its excellent ramen restaurants, offering various flavors at reasonable prices. TikTok

Street food vendors and casual eateries within Plaza Las Americas Mall are often highlighted for their affordability and quality. TikTok

Options can vary, but with the diverse range of restaurants, you can often find vegetarian dishes. It's best to inquire with individual establishments about their specific offerings.

Tipping is customary in restaurants in Mexico. A tip of 10-15% is generally appreciated for good service.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant street life, unique shop facades, and bustling atmosphere. The covered shopping areas can offer interesting architectural shots. Reddit

It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors or shopkeepers.

Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, some private establishments might have their own policies regarding photography inside their premises.

Late afternoon or early evening can offer beautiful lighting and capture the lively ambiance as shops and restaurants begin to glow. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near border crossings due to security and privacy regulations. It's best to avoid using drones.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

San Ysidro offers family-friendly options, particularly within Plaza Las Americas Mall. The mall provides a safe and accessible environment with diverse dining choices, including kid-approved ramen. TikTok The trolley system is also a fun and easy way for families to travel to downtown San Diego, offering a novel experience for children. TikTok

When visiting, consider visiting during weekday afternoons to avoid the largest crowds. This will make navigating the area and enjoying attractions more comfortable for everyone. Pack snacks and drinks, as exploring can be tiring for little ones.

💰 Budget Travelers

San Ysidro is a fantastic destination for budget-conscious travelers. The area boasts affordable dining, with highly-rated ramen spots and street food vendors offering delicious meals at low prices. TikTok The trolley to downtown San Diego is also an economical transportation choice, costing significantly less than taxis or rideshares. TikTok

Look for local eateries and smaller shops rather than large chain stores for the best value. Exploring the shotengai (covered shopping streets) can also yield affordable finds and unique souvenirs without the premium price tag of tourist traps. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Drivers

If you're driving, be mindful of the updated lane configurations for the San Ysidro border crossing; the left two lanes are now the primary route. TikTok Parking can be a challenge and costly, so factor this into your plans. Consider using rideshare services or public transport once you've parked to avoid further parking hassles in busy areas.

While the border crossing itself is a necessity for many, the surrounding areas offer opportunities for quick stops. Plaza Las Americas Mall provides a convenient spot for a meal or some shopping if you need a break from driving. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring San Ysidro's Culinary Scene

San Ysidro, particularly around Plaza Las Americas Mall, is a burgeoning spot for diverse and affordable eats. TikTok creators have highlighted the excellent ramen options available, noting their great flavors and reasonable prices, making it a fantastic destination for foodies on a budget. TikTok Beyond ramen, the area offers a variety of street food and casual dining experiences that capture the local essence.

When exploring, don't hesitate to try local specialties. Many establishments pride themselves on authentic flavors, offering a taste of the region that goes beyond typical tourist fare. The vibrant atmosphere, especially in the evenings, adds to the dining experience, making it a lively place to enjoy a meal. TikTok

For those looking for a quick and tasty bite, street food vendors are a great option. They often serve up regional favorites and are a fantastic way to sample a variety of flavors without breaking the bank. Keep an eye out for popular stalls and be prepared for a delicious adventure. TikTok

Navigating the San Ysidro Border Crossing

The San Ysidro border crossing is a critical transit point, and understanding its traffic flow is essential for drivers. Recent updates indicate a change in lane designations, with the left two lanes now leading to the border. This shift aims to streamline the process, but travelers should remain vigilant and follow signage to avoid confusion. TikTok

For those not driving, the trolley system offers a convenient and cost-effective way to travel between San Ysidro and downtown San Diego. The process involves purchasing a card from designated machines and loading it with fare, providing easy access to the city's attractions. TikTok

Planning your crossing time can significantly impact your experience. While wait times are often unpredictable, traveling during off-peak hours or weekdays may offer a smoother passage. Being prepared for potential delays and having alternative transportation options in mind can help mitigate any travel disruptions. TikTok

Discovering Local Shopping Experiences

While Sanjo-dori Street itself is a general description, the surrounding areas in San Ysidro offer unique shopping opportunities. Plaza Las Americas Mall is a central point for retail, housing a variety of stores. TikTok Beyond the mall, keep an eye out for shotengai, which are traditional covered shopping streets. These areas often feature a charming mix of local businesses, from small boutiques to specialty food shops, offering a more authentic glimpse into local commerce. Reddit

These local shopping streets are not just about purchasing goods; they are also about the experience. The atmosphere is often lively, with vendors interacting with customers and a sense of community. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs, local crafts, or simply soak in the local culture. Reddit

When exploring these shopping areas, be open to discovering hidden gems. Many of the smaller shops may not be widely advertised but offer high-quality products and personalized service. Engaging with shopkeepers can also lead to interesting conversations and insights into the local way of life. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2