The first Japanese immigrants arrived in the 1860s to San Francisco, known to them as "Soko." They originally resided in Chinatown in small groups before the great earthquake and fires of 1906. The havoc created from these natural disasters forced them to relocate to the area that is the Japantown that we know today. Despite being deprived** from settling down or opening Japanese shops and restaurants in white neighborhoods, these resilient immigrants formed their own small enclave within San Francisco and nikkei owned businesses thrived; becoming Japantown.
Unfortunately, when USA relations with Japan during WWII became tumultuous a dark part of America's history was inflicted on the local Japanese community. They, along with 100,000-120,000 US residents of Japanese descent, were interned-a rather euphemistic term for what was really a concentration camp. The majority of Japanese Americans, most of who were US citizens, were forced to relocate to incarcerated camps; though some went willingly. It was reported that even those with so much as 1/16th Japanese heritage or orphaned children were sent away. This has lead to the belief this was more an act of racism rather out of fear of potential threat. There was already a long history of racism against Asians coming into the United States and this only further perpetuated the hatred and distrust. (*1)
After the conclusion of WWII those of Japanese descent were released from the internal camps and many of the former San Francisco residents returned to Japantown. In the 1960s the neighborhood went through a revitalization and remodeling. More hotels, movie theatres, shopping centres, and businesses were established.
Today, "nearly 12,000 Japanese Americans live in San Francisco and approximately 80,000 live in the greater Bay Area." (*2) Japantown is now a very lively and strong community with niche shops, markets, and boutique hotels and spas. It has incredible food, love for fashion, and all things Japanese! Look for bright red banners with cherry blossoms and the Peace Pagoda (shown here on the blog). The Peace Pagoda was gifted by Osaka, Japan in the 1960s as a sign of peace for people of all races and beliefs.

• Japan Center Malls - East & West - The East and West Malls are centered between the Japantown Peace Pagoda. I love how part of the mall feels like you're going underground. 
• Pika Pika - Japanese photo sticker booths are the draw at this vibrant shop with standard film & photo services. 
• Nijiya Market - Popular Japanese supermarket
• New People - Latest examples of Japanese popular culture expressed though film, art, fashion, and various events
• Kinokuniya Bookstore - Wide selection of books, magazines, comics, and stationery.
• Sakura Sakura - Japanese boutique with speciality fashion and items

• Waraku - Serves upscale ramen 
• Shabu-Sen - shabu-shabu & sukiyaki, which guests cook themselves in a cauldron of hot broth.
• Udon Mugizo - Simply decorated Japanese noodle specialist serves up a menu of udon, tempura & mochi. 
• Isobune Sushi - Boats carrying sushi to be plucked from a countertop moat make this a kid-friendly dining option.
• Tanpopo - Serves Yakisoba, literally "fried buckwheat," or sōsu yakisoba.
• Belly Good Cafe & Crepes - Crepe, Ice Cream & Boba Drinks. Creative Japanese-style crêpes adorned with smiles sculpted from toppings & whipped cream.
• Izakaya Kou - Amid a light-filled dining room, guests chow down on Asian-inspired plates & sushi
• Shalala - Contemporary noodle house serves ramen bowls, Japanese fare & has a laid-back atmosphere.

• May’s Coffee Shop Breakfast, Lunch, Coffee, Tea, Sandwiches, Noodles, Hawaiian Type Breakfast at an indoor counter spot in the West Mall.
• Kissako Teas and Sweets - Fine teas and sweets
• Mitsu Tea House - Cotton Candy-Topped Bubble Tea Cafe
• Crown & Crumpet Tea Stop Cafe - high tea room with stylish and vibrant décor