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
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium Daytime Admission
California Sunset Cruise (2-hours)
Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
Top hotels in Japantown
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
"Bright sun-filled rooms."
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
"Great location Very friendly staff"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
"Self parking was easy. Resturant food was good. Very close to the trolley."
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
"Good service"
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
"It is an older property but is clean and well maintained. The staff was very helpful in holding our large amount of luggage."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
"Everything was average I would say for room and amenities. Rooms are a bit outdated. My problem was with the employee that checked us in. She was rude and dismissive, she wouldn't talk to us at all, not even to instruct me on paying for the deposit nor did she explain what the deposit was for. Offered ..."
Reviewed on 27 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 Mrs. Doubtfire House and Van Ness Avenue. 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.
