Chinatown Gate (Dragon's Gate), San Francisco

In keeping with Feng Shui principles, the southern edge of San Francisco鈥檚 Chinatown is marked by a towering gateway that straddles the bustle of Grant Avenue. This is the Dragon Gate, a flamboyant arch dressed in curling green dragons and traditional tiles. It might look timeless, but it鈥檚 actually a relative newcomer鈥攗nveiled only in 1970. Its materials were a gift from Taiwan, while the elegant design came from Chinese-American architect Clayton Lee, who modeled it after the ceremonial village gates of old China. Across the top, four carved Chinese characters proclaim a message of welcome: 鈥淎ll under heaven is for the good of the people.鈥�

Guarding the arch are a pair of stone lions, known as fu dogs. On the west side, the male lion steadies a ball beneath his paw, symbolizing protection of the outside world. On the east, the lioness rests her paw on a playful cub, representing the nurturing of family. Together, they embody the balance of strength and care, ensuring that any evil spirits think twice before crossing the threshold.

Pass beneath the gate, and the character of the neighborhood unfolds in full color. In the 1920s, local merchants reinvented Chinatown鈥檚 appearance by adding pagoda-roofed fa莽ades and bright ornamental details鈥攁 pioneering initiative which created an identity that has drawn visitors ever since. The once-notorious red-light district gave way to lantern-strung streets. As evening sets in, the dragon-shaped streetlights flicker on, casting a warm glow across the lively thoroughfare, bustling with herbal shops, bakeries, tea houses, and jewelry stores.

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Sight Name: Chinatown Gate (Dragon's Gate)
Sight Location: San Francisco, USA (See walking tours in San Francisco)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in San Francisco, California

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