Japantown Travel Guide
San Francisco
Popular places to visit
Golden Gate Park
This beloved park offers relaxation among trees, flowers and wildlife, right in San Francisco’s backyard.
Pier 39
This waterfront attraction offers thrilling rides, innovative street performers and colorful souvenir shops, but it’s the sea lions that win the day.
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Golden Gate Bridge
Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.
Moscone Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in Moscone Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Francisco. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this vibrant area.
Alcatraz Island
Escape to “The Rock,” home of the infamous and abandoned island prison, and discover how it earned a reputation as a cold and unforgiving place.
Things to do
California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission
Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour (Ferry & Bike Options Available)
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
Monterey, Carmel & Pacific Coast Highway - Full Day Tour
SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium Daytime Admission
San Francisco CityPASS®: Experience 4 must-see attractions
Top hotels in Japantown
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
"The underground parking is a very tight if you have a larger vehicle. It would be nice to see complimentary bathroom items like lotion or a shower cap. Mikey the Bell Captain is very helpful and knowledgeable."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
"Friendly staff! They made sure that I had the room type I wanted:"
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
"Place was nice. Parking is expensive and I booked a city view room but when i got there they wanted an extra 50 a night. Paid it but I thought i already paid more. Nice place would stay again."
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
"Love everything. Will definitely be back"
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
"It would have been nice to be told ahead of time not to go to the parking garage before checking in. We had to take our suitcase down 2 sets of stairs to get to the lobby, then back up those stairs to get to the elevator to get to our room. The bed was very firm. Not my favorite, but it was okay. ..."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
"Everything was good no complaints from check in to check out very fast no confusion thank you for having us and making it this simple"
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Japantown
Western Addition
Alamo Square and Painted Ladies are top sights in Western Addition, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Duboce Avenue & Noe Street Station or Duboce Ave & Church St Stop to see more sights in the area.
Pacific Heights
Take time in Pacific Heights to visit attractions like Van Ness Avenue and Mrs. Doubtfire House. You might also appreciate the abundant dining options, and you can hop on the metro at California St & Van Ness Ave Stop to see more of the city.
Cow Hollow
Gourmet restaurants a bustling marina and top sights from Union Street to Van Ness Avenue – discover Cow Hollow, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Theater District
Gourmet restaurants great entertainment and top sights from SHN Curran Theatre to Marines Memorial Theater – discover Theater District, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Nob Hill
Gourmet restaurants Chinatown and top sights from SF Masonic Auditorium to Cable Car Museum – discover Nob Hill, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Downtown San Francisco
Known for its fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Francisco. Top attractions like Oracle Park and San Francisco Bay are major draws. Catch the metro at Market St & 5th St Stop or Market St & Taylor St Stop to see more of the city.
