Asian Art Museum, San Francisco: Hours, Address, Asian Art Museum Reviews: 4.5/5
Asian Art Museum
Asian Art Museum
4.5
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
1:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Spanning cultures from Turkey to India and China to the Philippines through 6,000 years, the collection provides a panorama of Asian art and culture. Included are over 18,000 objects ranging from tiny jades to monumental sculptures. Superb paintings, porcelains, arms and armor, furniture, textiles, and bronzes are featured.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Asian Art Museum and nearby attractions
The area
Address
Neighborhood: Civic Center
Civic Center is the seat of power for all things government and performance-related in the city. Although its streets are best walked during daytime, numerous cultural gems are within close proximity to one another. The symphony, opera, ballet, and jazz center offer year round entertainment within the shadow of the city’s Beaux-Arts crown jewel: the gold tipped dome of City Hall.
How to get there
- Civic Center • 4 min walk
- Civic Center • 4 min walk
Best nearby
Restaurants
4,689 within 3 miles

Brenda's French Soul Food
1,086
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Cajun & Creole • Vegetarian Friendly

Sam's Diner
665
0.1 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Korean • Fusion

Ananda Fuara
160
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options • Gluten Free Options

Saigon Sandwich Shop
142
0.2 mi$ • Fast Food • Asian • Vietnamese

Montesacro Pinseria
277
0.4 mi$$ - $$$ • Italian • Pizza • Romana

Golden Era Vegan Restaurant
169
499 ft$$ - $$$ • Asian • Vietnamese • Vegetarian Friendly

Gyro King
121
0.1 mi$ • Quick Bites • Mediterranean • Turkish

Chambers - Phoenix Hotel
102
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • American

Bourbon and Branch
487
0.4 mi$$ - $$$

Villon
66
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Contemporary • Vegan Options
Attractions
784 within 6 miles

Orpheum Theatre
372
0.1 miTheaters

San Francisco Public Library
220
446 ftLibraries

Civic Center
213
469 ftCivic Centres

Heart of the City Farmers' Market
45
404 ftFlea & Street Markets • Farmers Markets

Pioneer Monument
36
201 ftMonuments & Statues

Tenderloin People's Garden Mural
3
247 ftPoints of Interest & Landmarks

Dragon Fortune
1
220 ftPoints of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues

Civic Center Power House
3
230 ftPoints of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings

San Francisco City Hall
1,033
0.2 miArchitectural Buildings • Government Buildings

Civic Center Commons
6
0.1 miNeighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,541 reviews
Excellent
1,022
Very good
416
Average
77
Poor
14
Terrible
12
phvi2617
Anaheim, CA279 contributions
Feb 2022
This museum has a vast, comprehensive collection of Asian art spanning thousands of years and nearly every artistic medium. I really enjoyed the South Asian galleries as well as the different representations of the Buddha from across Asia.
It is recommended to book timed tickets in advance, but I was able to walk in on a Saturday afternoon. I took two hours to peruse the main galleries, but could have easily stayed longer if I had more time. A real treasure of San Francisco!
It is recommended to book timed tickets in advance, but I was able to walk in on a Saturday afternoon. I took two hours to peruse the main galleries, but could have easily stayed longer if I had more time. A real treasure of San Francisco!
Written March 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
California_momofsix
Fairfield1,082 contributions
Oct 2020
My family was lucky enough to snag some free tickets for the reopening. I would definitely go back and pay for a ticket. I believe adult tickets are 15$. Due to limited capacity, you need to book your visit online ahead of time but there are plenty of spots available. We felt very safe at the museum. It was so quiet with only a few other people around, plenty of room for social distancing.
I am no expert on Asian art but I learned quite a bit and enjoyed what was on display. Currently, no paper guides are available but you can download a free app with a number of options for tours. My only minor complaint is that the online version isn't always very clear in which room to find the object described, but it was a minor inconvenience. You can either read or listen to the information.
Parking is available for a fee at the City Center garage right across the street. Cheaper after 3pm. We had a run in with the homeless on the short walk from the car to the front door, but that can happen anywhere in San Francisco at any time as we all know.
I am no expert on Asian art but I learned quite a bit and enjoyed what was on display. Currently, no paper guides are available but you can download a free app with a number of options for tours. My only minor complaint is that the online version isn't always very clear in which room to find the object described, but it was a minor inconvenience. You can either read or listen to the information.
Parking is available for a fee at the City Center garage right across the street. Cheaper after 3pm. We had a run in with the homeless on the short walk from the car to the front door, but that can happen anywhere in San Francisco at any time as we all know.
Written November 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
allaroundtheuniverse
New York City, NY31 contributions
Nov 2020
The collections are impressive and it's a treasure to have a museum like this in the Bay Area. I definitely recommend visiting even during the pandemic, because the staff is taking safety precautions very seriously. There are only a handful of people on each floor, so it feels like you have a huge museum all to yourself.
There are some incredible collections donated by art enthusiasts, such as the Japanese bamboo baskets and sculpture collection, graciously donated to the museum by Mr. Lloyd L. Cotsen.
One tip is to download the Asian Art Museum SF app on your phone at home, open the app and make sure that all the tours are downloaded onto your phone. Get acquainted with all the audio tours, so that you can easily navigate through them while you tour the museum and see all the objects in real life, while listening to professionally narrated audio tours by the curators and other history experts. Don't forget to bring your headphones.
It's a must see museum in San Francisco!
There are some incredible collections donated by art enthusiasts, such as the Japanese bamboo baskets and sculpture collection, graciously donated to the museum by Mr. Lloyd L. Cotsen.
One tip is to download the Asian Art Museum SF app on your phone at home, open the app and make sure that all the tours are downloaded onto your phone. Get acquainted with all the audio tours, so that you can easily navigate through them while you tour the museum and see all the objects in real life, while listening to professionally narrated audio tours by the curators and other history experts. Don't forget to bring your headphones.
It's a must see museum in San Francisco!
Written November 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
TravelingSwan
Concord, CA55 contributions
Sep 2020
Definitely worth a stop if you have the time. I spent almost 5v hours here and I still didn’t see everything. I love that they have a coat check so I didn’t have to walk around with my motorcycle helmet the whole time. The displays change and new things are always coming in. The museum is clean and pretty quiet. TH e-gift shop has a number of very unique things although a bit pricey. I hope to return again to see their new exhibits.
Written April 13, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
ashie b
Richmond, VA384 contributions
Aug 2021
The museum is organized and easy to walk through. The interactive exhibit was really cool, we stayed there for a half hour alone. We were a bit disappointed that so much of the museum was blocked off for constructing the new exhibit, but what was left was very well put together and laid out. I wish I could've stayed longer to read everything.
Written August 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
ElTouristo61
New York City, NY2,677 contributions
Nov 2021 • Friends
Spanning some 6,000 years and multiple/diverse cultures, the Asian Art Museum is filled with stunning masterpieces. I had a really enjoyable time walking through the collection and learning about the pieces. This is certainly one of the best Asian art collections in the country.
Written November 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Margaret H
Oakland, CA191 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
I have been here twice with very different groups of guests. Each time they have been overwhelmingly surprised at this museum. It is the perfect balance of relevant contemporary art and historic treasure. The installations and exhibits tend to focus on more current art themes. The upper levels house vast and spectacular collections organized by countries - China, Japan, and Korea. Everything is clearly labeled and explained. There are good videos augmenting some of the sections. The interior of the building is really well lit and enhances the art in very subtle ways. Highly recommend you take the elevator and start on the third floor, then work your way down.
The restaurant also houses art, and their food is unusual and delightful. There is a coat check on the ground level and all the staff/volunteers are friendly and helpful. The location is easily accessible by Civic Center BART and right across from the beautiful San Francisco City Hall. If you drive, there is a garage 1 block north of the museum on Larkin.
The restaurant also houses art, and their food is unusual and delightful. There is a coat check on the ground level and all the staff/volunteers are friendly and helpful. The location is easily accessible by Civic Center BART and right across from the beautiful San Francisco City Hall. If you drive, there is a garage 1 block north of the museum on Larkin.
Written January 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Terri J
Oakland, CA8 contributions
Mar 2020
This is a fantastic, world class museum. Start at the top of the escalator and work your way down. The cafe offers a get place to grab a meal. And the Gift Shop although expensive has wonderful books, jewelry, and other souvenirs. If you do not have any background in Asian Art, I would recommend a tour.
Written February 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Debs13
4 contributions
Feb 2020
The Asian Art Museum has an absolutely hands down brilliant collection of Asian art. I plan on revisiting it every time I'm in SF. It's not a crowded museum but has thoughtful placements. The exhibition "Awaken: A Tibetan Buddhist Journey Toward Enlightenment" was so interesting as it was based on the history of the mandela., and, was conveyed through the museum floor plan. A must-see. Afterwards, have a cup of green tea and the garlic noodles in its cafe. Wind down and center yourself.
Written March 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
DebinSanFrancisco
Tiburon, CA296 contributions
Aug 2021
We were just there for an exhibit and still love this museum. It's in a great location, so you can see other buildings such as City Hall & Civic Center Plaza.
Since " Asian" spans so many countries & cultures, if you have a preference, check the site to see what the latest exhibits are. For my girlfriends and I, we enjoy them all that cover many Asian art and cultures.
Since " Asian" spans so many countries & cultures, if you have a preference, check the site to see what the latest exhibits are. For my girlfriends and I, we enjoy them all that cover many Asian art and cultures.
Written September 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
artfuls0ul
South San Francisco, CA
How much does it cost today
Thomas M
Long Island, NY15 contributions
Adults are $25, Seniors and teens 13-17 $20, children under 13 free.
Maria
13 contributions
Where is the nearby parking? Few options if one is full?
Asian Art Museum
San Francisco, CA
Thanks, everyone.
Besides the Civic Center Garage right across the street from the museum, there's also the UC Hastings College of the Law Parking Garage on Larkin Street between McAllister Street and Golden Gate Avenue, one block north of the museum.
The garages tend to have more availability on weekends.
Hope this helps.
Tutu9
Lafayette, CA1 contribution
Is it necessary to purchase museum ticket in order to eat in cafe?
Asian Art Museum
San Francisco, CA
Nope! Simply check in at the front desk and they'll issue you a fun sticker to allow you to access the café.
Enjoy your visit (and be sure to check out the store for any last minute stocking-stuffers you might have on your list).
jskjunks
Oakland, CA
Can I get my ticket for the Emperors' Treasures Exhibition when I get to the museum? Or do I need to purchase the ticket in advance and show up at the museum at exactly that time.
Asian Art Museum
San Francisco, CA
Hi Jskjunks,
Thanks for your inquiry. You can purchase your ticket for Emperors' Treasures at the door when you arrive at the museum.
Hope to see you soon.
Anne B
Virginia39 contributions
Is the cafe seated table service or cafeteria style?
Is it possible to reserve a table -- I have a group of 9, including one person in a wheel chair. Thanks!
localman2014
San Francisco, CA3 contributions
The cafe is cafeteria style, no table service. What I would do is when you first enter the museum go directly to the cafe and talk with them about seeing if you can resrve a spot for your nine people at a set time. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions about Asian Art Museum
- Asian Art Museum is open:
- Thu - Thu 1:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Fri - Mon 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- We recommend booking Asian Art Museum tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 5 Asian Art Museum tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Asian Art Museum:
- Go City: San Francisco Explorer Pass - Choose 2, 3, 4 or 5 Attractions (From $58.00)
- Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 25+ Attractions (From $67.00)
- The San Francisco Sightseeing Day Pass: Save BIG at 30+ Attractions & Tours (From $84.00)
- The San Francisco Sightseeing Flex Pass: A Golden Gate Ticket to 30+ Attractions (From $64.00)
- 1 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour (From $60.99)
- Hotels near Asian Art Museum:
- (0.05 mi) Vantaggio Suites Abigai
- (0.23 mi) Phoenix Hotel
- (0.22 mi) San Francisco Proper
- (0.16 mi) Hotel Whitcomb
- (0.21 mi) BEI San Francisco, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
- Restaurants near Asian Art Museum:
- (0.02 mi) Sunday At The Museum
- (0.09 mi) Golden Era Vegan Restaurant
- (0.13 mi) Sam's Diner
- (0.11 mi) Gyro King
- (0.05 mi) Soluna Cafe and Lounge
- Attractions near Asian Art Museum:
- (0.08 mi) San Francisco City Guides
- (0.11 mi) Orpheum Theatre
- (0.08 mi) San Francisco Public Library
- (0.09 mi) Civic Center
- (0.08 mi) Heart of the City Farmers' Market