Japan Center Malls

This was so much fun on our birthday binge it was an amazing day and this was an awesome stop. All of the shops were so cool and there was great food and drink selections. We even visit the bathrooms they were super clean and busy with a line wrapped around the building but very well-maintained. They were ADA compliant and large enough to get wheelchairs in and out of safely. Parking in town is a nightmare. But we knew what we were getting ourselves into and we will definitely come back

A long, spaced out mall. Lots of places to get ramen, boba tea, crepes, sundries, stuffed animals, gifts, stationary. Also a lot of empty spaces.

I LOVE japantown! iT is such a cool place to go with friends or on a date! there are so many different japanese stores to look at and everything sold is of very high quality. I always feel safe when walking around here and that is always a great thing

AMAZING. So many different stores with unique items to explore. This center has everything in one spot- from food, to stationery, to appliances!! Enjoy window shopping/ buying cute souvenirs for pretty cheap! (In some stores) There is also authentic food, make sure to try that.

❌ There is no parking actually near the center… but its not that hard to find a parking garage nearby.

Many tourist attractions nearby, like the 5 layered pagoda structure, torii (traditional japanese red gate), and many more! So stop on by with some friends, and it will definitely keep everyone entertained for the whole day!

Exploring a tranquil Christmas at Japan Center in SF. Half the restaurants are open, half closed, creating a unique blend of festive and serene vibes. #ChristmasSF #JapanCenter 🎄🏮

Its December 2023 and after living in the Bay Area for over 10 years this was my first time at the Japan Center. Had driven by many times but never went in. What a great surprised I had. I cannot believe how is that I’ve missed it. Quite cool place to go shopping for anything Japan related. There is good restaurants, anime, books, bars etc. Saw a few people cosplaying, dressed up as anime characters, which is entertaining. Nice way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Will try to come back during cherry blossom season or any special event. Highly recommend.

I love this town even after 25 years since my 1st visit. Food is good and a lot of variety. The adjacent hotel is so beautiful and friendly.

This place has always been a destination even when I was in college. It is a fun place to roam around to browse or shop and to eat. The place is busier than ever and they have filled in some of the empty spots with fun trinket stores, boba tea shops and new restaurants. I also like going to the ninja market which is located in the mall that has an entrance outside. And even the block of Buchanan outside of the mall is also of interest. Great for anyone who wants to explore San Francisco history through the community of the Japanese Americans, contemporary Japanese culture through shopping or just a fun place to hang out and chill.

I loved this more than China Town. I love Japanese culture. The mall was fun but close by are great restaurants and it’s near several bus stops. Don’t forget to try the mochi donuts they were delicious.

Had a blast, exploring, it’s like exploring a Japanese market but you’re in the US. Tons of stores, plenty of food options. If you love things like hello kitty, Disney, Totoro, and Pokémon. It’s definitely a must see. The book store was my favorite. I bought a Disney scratch art book, nightmare before Christmas my little golden book, and a kids Pokémon ABC book. I also got some cute San Francisco. Hello kitty stickers. There’s also plenty of cute photo spots to check out. Definitely worth taking a look around if your near by. I think I missed some stuff and want to head back and see more.

Have been twice and still haven't explored it all. Cannot wait to go back. We have tried takoyaki and real mochi. The products in the stores are real good quality and it's a great place to practice your Japanese if you speak it or are learning.

Japan center is amazing! I’ve never experienced such a great variety of Japanese shops outside of Tokyo! Everything about it is clean and safe. There are so many different types of gift shops and specialty shops. Lots of choices for food and snacks !

There’s a Benihana and various other sushi restaurants like the conveyor belt bullet train sushi spots!

There is a parking structure downstairs under the mall!

The mall is a really nice place to walk around. There's a bunch of restaurants including places to get bakery, desserts, noodles, etc. There's a lot of anime stuff, claw/capsule machines, and a big bookstore. There's also Daiso, grocery, Kabuki spa, and a movie theater. They have special events such as cherry blossom festival. (Sakura)

Can't say enough good things about this area in S.F. No shortage of great places to eat and walk around in. Beautiful traditional Japanese shops and style with friendly store owners. It also goes without saying that the other shops that focus on collectibles and other Japanese imports are top notch as well.

Everything Japanese you can think of. Food, souvenir items, clothing, entertainment, anime and manga books. Spent couple of hours here Monday morning and it was almost empty til noon. I love how they have it all in one spot. Kinokuniya Bookstore is our favorite. Spent an hour walking around just in that store.

Japantown Centre was really really interesting . I enjoyed the atmosphere and it was really nice being able to sit in (what I believe is considered the courtyard of the west end of the mall). Very nice to be able to relax next to a fountain. I enjoyed how much of a daily and weekend hang out spot this clearly is even for the locals! Everyone was super nice and there are so many amazing shops to check out!

One part of the mall even has some cool cultural aspects where you can learn trafitional Japanese instruments and participate in many tradicional Japanese activities. Super amazing time and even a nice spot if you are solo and just wanting to explore!

This is MUST VISIT location. Authentic Japanese cuisine with plenty of shops to explore. Perfect place to grab a bite, drink or shop for a taste of asian culture. This Japantown is one of the few largest in our nation and it didn’t disappoint! Grab yourself some Takoyaki, mochinut donut and boba tea and enjoy!!

The mall has plenty of Japanese decor to make you feel right at home. Red lanterns and arched bridges allow visitors to explore the interior of the building.

Such a fun place to hang out and shop. The square was very relaxing, especially after a weekend of walking all over the city.

So many unique and eclectic stores! Pandemic is making business difficult for many, but happy to see the stores sticking it out.

The Kinokuniya Bookstore has an almost overwhelming selection of books from a variety of genres. Not to mention the lower floor is practically dedicated to manga (both translated and in their original language!) There are also knickknacks and toys that make great gifts and souvenirs for visitors. Though, to be fair, you will more than likely find something of interest in the many other stores you will be passing on your way to this spot!

Mochill is an outstanding doughnut shop that uses mochi instead of standard dough for a slightly more bouncy chew, (in a good way) there are an assortment of flavors that include familiar Japanese tastes like matcha and black sesame, classic flavors such as chocolate, and additional flavors that change out to make room for new ones. Check them out, you won't regret it!

There are a good number of other restaurants operating with take out options you could get your full at, but if you are looking for a quick snack, before heading on your way or before starting your exploration, I recommend Kissako Tea. They are a tiny stall located under the stairs (unusual, but trust me) near the lower level of the Kinokuniya bookstore.

There are all manner of stores here working hard while we all try to get through this pandemic, so please support small businesses whenever you can!