Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all Washington, D.C. places

Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Public art

Friendship Archway

A vibrant paifang and the world's largest single-span Chinese archway, this 1986 monument serves as the colorful gateway to Washington, D.C.'s Chinatown, symbolizing friendship between Beijing and the U.S. capital.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
Friendship Archway
washington.org, og_image_washington.org

What is the Friendship Archway known for?

The Friendship Archway is the largest single-span Chinese archway in the world and the largest in the United States. It is a colorful landmark featuring 272 painted dragons and serves as a gateway to Washington, D.C.'s Chinatown.

Where is it located?

It is located at 7th and H Streets NW in Washington, D.C., next to the Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro Station.

What is the history of the archway?

Erected in 1986, the archway was called for by the Washington, D.C. Chinese community. It symbolizes the friendship between the sister cities of Beijing and Washington, D.C., as well as broader intercultural friendship.

How big is the Friendship Archway?

The gateway is 48 feet high and 75 feet wide.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Friendship Archway is a striking paifang that serves as the primary gateway to Washington, D.C.'s Chinatown. Erected in 1986 at the intersection of 7th and H Streets NW, this monument was a project specifically called for by the local Chinese community to establish a visible presence and identity within the city. Standing 48 feet high and 75 feet wide, it is recognized as the largest single-span Chinese archway in the world. Architecturally, the archway is a feast of color and traditional detail. It spans a four-lane street and is adorned with 272 painted dragons, blending traditional artwork with ornate Chinese architectural features. Beyond its visual appeal, the structure carries deep symbolic meaning, representing the friendship between the sister cities of Beijing and Washington, D.C., as well as a broader spirit of joy and intercultural connection among people of diverse backgrounds. Located next to the Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro Station, the archway is a central anchor of the neighborhood's streetscape. Visitors can find Chinese zodiac symbols embedded in the crosswalks on the ground nearby, while the Capital One Arena sits just to the right. Rather than acting as a relic of the past, the monument is designed to be a happy, forward-looking symbol of the community's future.

Visitor tips

  • Look down at the crosswalks to find the Chinese zodiac symbols embedded in the street.
  • The archway is conveniently located right next to the Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro Station for easy access.
  • Visit during the day to fully appreciate the colors of the 272 painted dragons.

Nearby context

The Friendship Archway anchors the heart of Chinatown at 7th and H Streets NW. It is situated in a high-energy area of downtown Washington, D.C., positioned between the Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro Station and the Capital One Arena, where many of the city's professional sports teams play.

Sources

Evidence and links