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)
San Francisco: One day Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Tour
Top hotels in Japantown
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
"very comfortable to stay in hte hotel"
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
"Hotel was ok. “Double” beds were extremely small but comfortable. Breakfast buffet was way overpriced and extremely limited in options. Had paid extra $35 for a breakfast that was worth less than $5. Tried to remove breakfast option when I saw how bad it was and was told I couldn’t. ..."
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
"Very clean, friendly environment"
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
"Beautiful and clean hotel. The staff was fast and friendly. The beds were comfortable and the bathrooms very clean. I would definitely stay again."
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
"Clean room, great, helpful, friendly staff."
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
"Very nice atmosphere inside the lobby. Staff were very attentive and helpful. Cleaning service was good and the gym also has a lot of really nice amenities and equipment. Bed was nice and the room was very clean. Overall an amazing experience and very convenient location to top it off right next ..."
Reviewed on 29 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.
