Dragon Gate

What to know

The Dragon Gate stands as the ceremonial south-facing entrance to San Francisco's Chinatown, located at the intersection of Bush Street and Grant Avenue. This landmark is designed in the style of a traditional Chinese pailou, or paifang, which is a ceremonial gateway. Built in 1969 as a gift from the Republic of China (Taiwan), the structure is a striking example of traditional Chinese architecture and symbolic details. The gate's design features a triple-arch design with a green-tiled roof, adorned with guardian lions and dragons. A central plaque contains the phrase 'Tianxia wei gong,' which translates to 'All under heaven is for the common good' and is associated with Sun Yat-sen. This combination of architectural detail and political symbolism makes the gate a significant cultural marker. As one of the most photographed locations in Chinatown, the Dragon Gate serves as a primary point of entry into the oldest Chinatown in North America. Visitors can pass through the gate to explore the neighborhood's unique shops, restaurants, temples, and historic alleyways, transitioning from the city's financial district into a vibrant cultural hub.

Visitor tips

• Allow a few minutes for photos, as this is one of the most photographed locations in the neighborhood.
• Use the gate as your starting point to explore the neighborhood's historic alleyways and temples.
• If you need a local map or guide, the Chinatown Visitor Information Center at 625 Kearny Street is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Nearby context

The Dragon Gate marks the transition from the surrounding city streets into the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown, the oldest Chinatown in North America.