Yesterday was a day spent in Japantown and Chinatown of SF. My brother is into Japanese culture and language. It was a first for both of us to check out Japantown. The restaurant was good but kind of funny how they had to triple check with me on my order because I wanted vegetable teriyaki instead of beef. You'd think in the city, they would have it on their menu or at least not be surprised if someone ordered it. After lunch we walked around, looking for Japanese reading material for Ray. We found a nice market with newspapers and magazines. After further investigation we happened upon a couple of nice malls. One had a large book store full of original Japanese books and translated American books. He was in heaven and wished he brought more moola.
Soon afterwards, we made our way to Chinatown. We each found a souvenir or two. Ray bought a Chinese shirt. We walked up and down hills on Grant St. (the main drag of Chinatown). We decided to stay till night fall to see the lit red lanterns draped across the street and the lights of SF buildings.
Peace dude.
Gangsta Priest
Two different Asian cultures: Chinatown was so colorful and busy. I suppose it was busier because its in the downtown area. It might be more touristy too because of the flashy colors and people. Japantown was neutral with subtle details. The majority of people seemed Japanese yet in Chinatown there was more of a mixture of people from around the world. Beggars were on the streets of Chinatown, a lady literally pulled us off the streets into her restaurant. We were ready for a walking break and some food so it was good timing on her part. The hustle and bustle of Chinatown was more exciting but dirty and the stores started to look the same. Japantown was cleaner, more relaxing. I enjoyed both. I'm glad they were different from one another!
Grant St. in Chinatown.
The lady from the restaurant.
The landscape of Japantown.
