LOCAL THINGS TO DO
Dive into the Heart of San Francisco's Japantown
Imagine yourself transported to a vibrant cultural hub. San Francisco’s Japantown, one of just three remaining in the US, pulsates with history and the energy of generations. Explore the rich heritage of Japanese immigrants, their descendants and the Japanese community who’ve woven a tapestry of tradition and modern life.
A Treasure Chest of Experiences
Step through the gateway and discover a trove of unique experiences. Over 200 small businesses beckon, offering everything from exquisite Michelin-starred cuisine to handcrafted Japanese treasures and the irresistible world of “kawaii” (cute) culture.
Wander the bustling Japan Center East Ramp; West Malls and the Kinokuniya Mall, where your senses will be delighted by authentic Japanese goods.
Don’t miss the established businesses that embody the enduring spirit of Japantown.
Where Art, Anime and Innovation Collide
Marvel at the whimsical Origami Fountains designed by renowned artist Ruth Asawa, gracing Osaka Way/Buchanan Street. Take a break to savor delicious food or browse the charming shops lining the street. Anime enthusiasts will find paradise at the Tokyo Anime Center, a haven overflowing with “gashapon” machines!
Rows upon rows dispense surprise collectibles featuring your favorite characters.
Step into a “Kiddleton” shop, a Japanese arcade filled with adorable claw machines overflowing with kawaii plushies and other delightful prizes.
Embrace the cutting-edge Paper Tree AR Experience! Using your smartphone, scan the QR code and unlock a world of 3D origami art coming to life on Osaka Way/Buchanan Street.
A Journey Through Time
Japantown is more than a place; it’s a vibrant community where the past, present, and future intertwine. Welcome to a cultural experience unlike any other!
Godzilla Mural
You can also marvel at the Godzilla mural lining the wall outside of Daiso and an image of Godzilla roaring at you from just right of US Bank. This mural was initiated by Bay Area Film Events for last year’s Godzillafest. Through the joint effort of Toho Co. (the creators of Godzilla) and The Japantown Community Benefit District this mural by artist E.J. Su came to life in spectacular color and is still there for you to visit.
Heroes Club
840 Clement Street San Francisco CA 94118 USA
https://www.solidart.club/
Robin Kwok is the founder of Heroes Club/Art Of Toys, which was established in 1989 in San Francisco, California.
Robin graduated from the prestigious Academy Of Art University of San Francisco with a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts.
He caters to modelers and collectors of horror, science-fiction, and fantasy-related collectibles.
Robin’s expertise extends into action figures, models, and other collectibles. Robin has been custom building, sculpting, and painting model kits for over thirty-five years. See all his work on display at Heroes Club!
Definitely worth a visit.
Yoda Statue
1 Letterman Dr San Francisco, CA 94129
At just over two feet tall, the statue is essentially life-sized, and is sculpted to look like the aged version of the wise Jedi master as he appeared in the original Star Wars trilogy, as opposed to the smoother version into the prequel trilogy. Visitors often follow the fountain ritual of throwing in coins to wish for good luck, although in this instance they are more likely to receive a blessing from the Force.
The fountain is located just off of Letterman Drive in front of the Letterman Center Building B, which contains the Lucas film lobby. The lobby can also be explored during weekday hours, and features even more Star Wars memorabilia including a life-sized Darth Vader and a selection of books that inspired George Lucas' most famous creations, as well as a statue of stop motion artist Willis O-Brien.
Exploratorium
https://www.exploratorium.edu/
Green St Pier 15, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111
The Exploratorium is a museum of science, technology, and arts in San Francisco, California.
Founded by physicist and educator Frank Oppenheimer in 1969, the museum was originally located in the Palace of Fine Arts and was relocated in 2013 to Piers 15 and 17 on San Francisco waterfront.
The museum has over 1,000 participatory exhibits and is divided into several galleries, mainly separated by content. Since its inception, the Exploratorium has expanded into other domains and has inspired an international network of participatory museums.
Cartoon Art Museum
https://www.cartoonart.org/
781 Beach Street, San Francisco, CA 94109
Next to Ghirardelli Square, Aquatic Park and the Hyde Street Cable Car Turnaround Founded in 1984, the Cartoon Art Museum has something for everyone—from comic strips, comic books and anime to political cartoons, graphic novels and underground comix.
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People of all ages can view original cartoon art at exhibitions and screenings, produce their own comics and animation at classes and workshops, research deeply into our collection and library, and mix and mingle with professional and aspiring cartoonists.
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This unique institution houses approximately 7,000 original pieces in our permanent collection and attracts more than 30,000 visitors annually.
Kimono My House
1455 64th St Emeryville, CA 94608
Japanese ANIME, TOKUSATSU, FANTASY and SCI FI. Toys, model kits, posters, t shirts and so much more! From Astroboy, Ultraman, Godzilla, Power Rangers and other Sentai series, to Pokemon, Sailor Moon, Kamen Rider, Miyazki/Studio Ghibli, Dragonball, Transformers, Gamera... We have a huge selection of goods from the vintage classics and more recent ones too!
Please come check our store and blow your mind. Also, please call to check; our hours change and sometimes we are open on off days.
