Chinatown In San Francisco
Chinese culture is welcomed all over the world and many major cities have a Chinese community. This is often represented in the local Chinatown. The Chinatown in San Francisco is a very special one as the residents claim that it is the largest one outside of Asia. It is also the oldest one in existence in the USA, with its origins going back to the 1850s.
This area has long been a tourist attraction and it is a fascinating mix of shopping, eating and cultural opportunities. Visitors can easily explore the district on foot, by bus or cable car. A large traditional gateway stands at the southern entrance, welcoming people into the San Francisco Chinatown. There are numerous annual events that take place and community street fairs. The highlight of the events calendar is the Chinese New Year Spectacular, a colorful celebration that truly offers a spectacle.
One of the most popular attractions is the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, which has been in business since 1962. Visitors can watch the cookies being made and they are encouraged to sample the goods. A favorite thing to do in Chinatown in San Francisco is to have a meal or snack at one of the many cafes or restaurants. Chinese cuisine is popular all over the world and there are a variety of dishes available. In addition to Chinese food, there are other restaurants, such as Vietnamese, Japanese, Indian, Italian, and Thai. There are also American outlets for hamburgers etc.
Shopping is terrific fun on these streets. San Francisco Chinatown is full of bustling fish markets and Chinese food stores. There are stores that sell ingredients for Chinese dishes and shops that sell the kitchen equipment to prepare such meals. This includes woks, bamboo steamers and Chinese cleavers. Chopsticks are also for sale to make the experience an authentic one. For anyone planning a Chinese New Year celebration of their own, there are traditional Chinese party decorations for sale.
Other stores include candy stores, electronics and video game stores and shops selling modern and traditional Chinese clothes. Chinese movies are very popular and these are available in DVD stores, to rent or to buy. It’s a great atmosphere in Chinatown in San Francisco. The community is a friendly one and there is something to interest every member of the family. If you are planning to visit one Chinatown in the world, this is the one to come to.
|
