Japantown, San Francisco - Little flick in the oldest Japanese restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles. Mitsuri Sushi & Grill
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Japantown San Francisco

4.6
·491k reviews·San Francisco, United States

San Francisco's historic Japantown offers a vibrant cultural immersion with unique shops, authentic cuisine, and a lively atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed exploration

CrowdLow
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Japantown, San Francisco - Little flick in the oldest Japanese restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles. Mitsuri Sushi & Grill

Japantown San Francisco

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

San Francisco's historic Japantown offers a vibrant cultural immersion with unique shops, authentic cuisine, and a lively atmosphere.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"It felt like we were in Japan with all the kawaii stores and restaurants with show food in front."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore Beyond the Mall

Venture into surrounding plazas for hidden gems like hardware stores and unique art galleries.

🍜 Savor Authentic Ramen

Don't miss top ramen spots like Marufuku or Hinodeya for a delicious and hearty meal.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Japan Center Mall

Japan Center Mall

Heart of Japantown

A bustling hub with diverse shops, from anime collectibles to skincare and unique trinkets. A must-visit for shoppers and culture enthusiasts.

Kinokuniya Bookstore

Kinokuniya Bookstore

Japan Center Mall

A treasure trove for manga, anime merchandise, and Japanese stationery. Perfect for fans of Japanese pop culture.

Matcha Delights

Matcha Delights

Various cafes

Indulge in authentic matcha treats, from soft serve to lattes and unique desserts. A sweet escape for any visitor.

Unique Boutiques

Unique Boutiques

Throughout Japantown

Discover charming stores selling everything from blind boxes and cat-themed gifts to artisanal ceramics and Japanese hardware.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Culture

Japantown is one of the oldest in the US, offering a vibrant cultural experience. Explore unique shops, savor authentic cuisine, and immerse yourself in Japanese traditions. Plan for a full day to truly appreciate its offerings.

Navigating the Area

While compact, Japantown has several distinct areas. The Japan Center Mall is the heart, but don't miss the surrounding plazas. Weekday visits are generally less crowded, making exploration easier.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, more vendors
Crowd
Medium
When
During festivals
Why
Cultural immersion, vibrant energy
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Can you hear the song in the back 🤭🤭 #shopping #sf #shop #blindbox #shinchan #skullpanda #popmart #ifun #japantown #sanfransisco #fyp #viral #kpop #anime #gyaru #gal #luveviebb
@luveviebb
35.1K likes • 220.2K views

🎯 Explore Beyond the Mall

Venture into surrounding plazas for hidden gems like hardware stores and unique art galleries. Reddit

🍜 Savor Authentic Ramen

Don't miss top ramen spots like Marufuku or Hinodeya for a delicious and hearty meal. Reddit

🎌 Did you know? Only 3 Japantowns remain in the U.S., and San Francisco is home to the biggest and oldest one! 🏮✨ The other two are in San Jose, CA & Los Angeles, CA - all in #california From history to mochi to modern living — Japantown is where culture and community meet. 🙋🏻‍♀️ Follow me and children” @415area @raymond_realtor @carinayaurealtor @allister.lamsen @ab.realtyy @gabstherealtor @tere...
@saebeekim
26.9K likes • 175.6K views
Have you explored this off-the-beaten-path SF neighborhood? Japantown is a unique SF neighborhood that transports you to another country without leaving SF's 49 square miles. When visiting San Francisco, Japantown is a must-see destination with its diverse food options, karaoke bars, and unique shopping experiences. @sf_japantown Food & Drink @pinkpinkteashoppe @sfonthebridge @udonmugizo @jinaba...
onlyinsf
1.8K likes • 145.8K views

🛍️ Blind Box Hunting

Dive into the fun of blind box collecting at shops like Pop Mart for unique souvenirs. TikTok

🍵 Matcha Lover's Paradise

Enjoy exquisite matcha treats at cafes like Matcha Cafe Maiko or Kissako Tea. TikTokReddit

a garden library that’s also a Michelin star restaurant?! @7adamsrestaurant 📖🥂⭐️ 7 Adams is a modern Californian restaurant in Japantown by husband-and-wife chefs Serena Chow Fisher and David Fisher. Retaining their Michelin star, two years in a row, they now offer a seasonal 7 course tasting menu nightly. Highlights include the grilled mt lassen trout, Oscetra caviar, and hiramasa crudo. It’s fi...
fashionbyally
1.5K likes • 56.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore Beyond the Mall

Venture into surrounding plazas for hidden gems like hardware stores and unique art galleries. Reddit

🍜 Savor Authentic Ramen

Don't miss top ramen spots like Marufuku or Hinodeya for a delicious and hearty meal. Reddit

🛍️ Blind Box Hunting

Dive into the fun of blind box collecting at shops like Pop Mart for unique souvenirs. TikTok

🍵 Matcha Lover's Paradise

Enjoy exquisite matcha treats at cafes like Matcha Cafe Maiko or Kissako Tea. TikTokReddit

🌸 Support Local Businesses

Many businesses were impacted by the pandemic; show your support by shopping and dining locally. Reddit

🚗 Parking Tips

Weekdays offer easier parking. Consider the parking lot in the Japan Center Mall. Reddit

🎶 Karaoke Fun

Rent a private karaoke room for a fun group activity. Reddit

🍣 Conveyor Belt Sushi

Experience the novelty of conveyor belt sushi at places like Tenroku or Izumi Kaiten. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Japantown's authentic cultural experience, diverse shopping, and delicious food, particularly ramen and matcha treats. While some note the area's compact size and occasional crowds, the unique atmosphere and variety of shops make it a beloved destination.

What People Like

Authentic Japanese culture
Diverse shopping options
Delicious food and sweets

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Compact area

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Japantown is accessible via public transportation. The 38 Geary bus line is a popular option from downtown and the East Bay via BART. Parking is available in the Japan Center Mall garage, though it can be busy on weekends. Reddit

Yes, Japantown is quite walkable, especially the main Japan Center Mall and surrounding plazas. You can explore most of it on foot within a few hours. Reddit

Walking is the best way to explore Japantown. The area is compact and designed for pedestrian exploration. Reddit

While BART doesn't directly stop in Japantown, you can take BART to a nearby station (like Civic Center or Powell Street) and then transfer to a bus or rideshare to reach Japantown. Reddit

There is a parking lot within the Japan Center Mall. Street parking can be challenging, especially on weekends. Weekdays generally offer easier parking. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Japantown itself is a neighborhood and does not require tickets for entry. Individual attractions or events within Japantown may have their own admission fees. Reddit

Japantown is an open neighborhood, so you can visit at any time. However, individual shops and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically from late morning to evening. It's best to check specific business hours before your visit. Reddit

There are no entrance fees to explore the Japantown neighborhood. You only pay for purchases made at shops or dining at restaurants. Reddit

Yes, Japantown can be very enjoyable for children, with many shops selling toys, anime merchandise, and unique snacks. The arcade and gachapon machines are also a hit. TikTokReddit

Japantown hosts various events throughout the year, including festivals and markets. Check the official Japantown website or local event listings for current happenings. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

Popular shops include Kinokuniya Bookstore for manga and stationery, Daiso for Japanese dollar store finds, and various boutiques selling anime figures, blind boxes, and unique trinkets. TikTokReddit+1

Kinokuniya Bookstore and dedicated anime collector stores within the Japan Center Mall are great places to find anime merchandise, figures, and manga. TikTokReddit

Yes, Kinokuniya Bookstore is a must-visit for its extensive collection of Japanese books, manga, and stationery. Reddit

You can find a wide range of souvenirs, including anime figures, manga, Japanese snacks, stationery, unique trinkets, and artisanal crafts. TikTokReddit+1

Japantown offers many unique gift options, from cute cat-themed items and blind boxes to high-quality ceramics and traditional Japanese crafts. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

Highly recommended spots include Marufuku Ramen, Hinodeya Ramen, Udon Mugizo for noodles, and various sushi restaurants. For sweets, try Yasukochi's Sweet Stop or Matcha Cafe Maiko. TikTokReddit+1

Japantown offers a wide array of authentic Japanese cuisine, from ramen and udon to sushi, yakitori, and traditional sweets. TikTokReddit+1

Don't miss out on ramen, mochi donuts, matcha soft serve, coffee crunch cake, and unique snacks like taiyaki or onigiri. TikTokReddit

Some restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. Hinodeya Ramen, for example, has a surprisingly great vegan ramen. Reddit

Matcha Cafe Maiko is a popular choice for matcha lattes, soft serve, and other matcha-based drinks and desserts. TikTokReddit

🎫 🧖‍♀️ Relaxation & Wellness

Yes, Japantown offers spa experiences, including Kabuki Springs and Pearl Spa, known for Japanese baths and massage treatments. TikTokReddit

Kabuki Springs offers a traditional Japanese onsen experience with steam rooms, cold plunges, and saunas. It's a relaxing escape from the city bustle. TikTokReddit

Yes, spas like Kabuki Springs and Pearl Spa offer various massage treatments for relaxation and wellness. Reddit

While Japantown is primarily Japanese, there are Korean-influenced businesses nearby, and some spas may offer treatments that cater to a broader audience. Reddit

Japanese spas offer a tranquil environment for relaxation, stress relief, and rejuvenation through traditional bathing rituals and therapeutic treatments. TikTokReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Japantown is a fantastic destination for families. Kids will love the abundance of anime and manga stores, the fun of gachapon machines, and the novelty of blind box collecting. TikTokReddit+1 The Daiso store is a hit for inexpensive toys and unique finds. Reddit For a sweet treat, mochi donuts and matcha soft serve are always a crowd-pleaser. TikTokReddit Consider visiting during a festival for added excitement, but be mindful of crowds if your child is sensitive to overstimulation. Reddit

🍜 Foodies & Culinary Explorers

For food lovers, Japantown is a must-visit. Dive into authentic ramen at renowned spots like Marufuku or Hinodeya. Reddit Explore the diverse offerings of sushi, udon, and yakitori. Don't miss out on Japanese sweets like mochi donuts, matcha treats, and unique cakes. TikTokReddit For a more casual experience, the Nijiya Market offers delicious and affordable Japanese groceries and prepared foods. Reddit

🛍️ Shoppers & Collectors

Japantown caters to shoppers looking for unique finds. Kinokuniya Bookstore is a paradise for manga and stationery lovers. Reddit Explore Daiso for budget-friendly Japanese goods and Maido for more specialized stationery. Reddit Anime fans will rejoice at the selection of figures and merchandise. TikTok For those who enjoy a surprise, blind box shops offer a fun collecting experience. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Taste of Japantown

Japantown is a culinary paradise, offering a diverse range of authentic Japanese flavors. From steaming bowls of ramen at Marufuku Ramen or Hinodeya Ramen to delicate sushi and savory yakitori, there's something to satisfy every palate. Don't miss the chance to try mochi donuts from Mochill or the exquisite coffee crunch cake at Yasukochi's Sweet Stop. For a refreshing treat, Matcha Cafe Maiko is a must-visit for its delicious matcha soft serve and lattes. TikTokReddit+1

Beyond the sweet treats, explore unique dining experiences like On The Bridge for Yoshoku (Japanese-Western fusion) cuisine or Nono Izakaya for a lively izakaya experience. Even if you're not dining in, the visual appeal of the food displays outside many restaurants adds to the immersive atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

For those seeking a more casual bite, the Nijiya Market offers a fantastic selection of Japanese groceries, bento boxes, and affordable sushi, making it a great option for a quick and delicious meal. Reddit

Shopping for Treasures

Japantown is a shopper's delight, especially for those who appreciate Japanese culture and pop culture. The Japan Center Mall is the epicenter, housing a variety of stores. Kinokuniya Bookstore is a haven for manga enthusiasts, offering an extensive collection of Japanese books, stationery, and anime merchandise. TikTokReddit

For unique trinkets and collectibles, explore shops like Maido and Daiso, a Japanese dollar store where you can find everything from cute stationery to household goods. TikTokReddit Pop Mart is a popular spot for blind box collectors, offering a fun surprise with every purchase. TikTok If you're looking for something truly unique, don't overlook the smaller boutiques scattered throughout the area, selling everything from cat-themed gifts to artisanal ceramics. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the mall, discover specialized stores like Soko Hardware, a hidden gem for Japanese tools and home goods, or explore the vibrant OK Marketplace for vintage finds. TikTokReddit

Cultural Immersion and Relaxation

Japantown offers more than just shopping and dining; it's a place to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. While the Peace Plaza has undergone renovations, the spirit of the community remains strong. Reddit For a truly relaxing experience, consider visiting Kabuki Springs & Spa or Pearl Spa for traditional Japanese baths, saunas, and massage treatments. TikTokReddit

While not directly in Japantown, the nearby Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park offers a serene escape with its beautiful landscaping and tranquil atmosphere, providing a complementary cultural experience. Reddit The area also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, offering a glimpse into Japanese traditions and celebrations. Reddit

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