Japantown

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"We love going with friends to Nijiya Market in Japantown, buying a to-go sushi feast with lots of Ikura, the kids’ favorite, and eating in the nearby park. For a treat we get fresh mochi from Benkyodo." | Erin Feher, Bay Area Editor Of Red Tricycle

If your kid has not mastered the art of using chopsticks yet, take him to Japantown. Filled with typical shops, restaurants and fun activities, this neighborhood is a wonderful way to introduce him to the Japanese culture. Most of the action happens in the Japan Center Mall, a labyrinth of indoor alleyways where it is easy to spend a couple of hours, perfect for a rainy day.

Get started at the "game store with no name" (I asked the person working there and she could not give me a name!) It is full of coin machines with plush animals to catch. Toddlers will love the bunny shaped machine making all kinds of sounds and designed just for them. Afterwards, visit the Kinokuniya Book Store, featuring an incredible manga section for little and big ones as well as great toys and gadgets.

Lunch Time. Head to Mifune a very laid back noodle house where families are more than welcomed. Kids love the "bullet train house", a mix of tempura and noodles served in a plastic train! Benihana, located outside of the Japan Mall Center is also a good option. This restaurant chain is famous for its scenic meals giving you a behind-the-scene dining experience. A cook will perform live, in front of you while you eat and it is likely to keep your child amazed and entertained during your meal. For a yummy dessert or a snack try Sophie's Crepe offering the French classic filled with traditional flavors like nutella as well as exotic ones, like green tea or red bean.

Take the pose. You can't leave Japan Mall Center without a stop at Pikapika, a japanese photo sticker booth. The concept is simple, take the pose with your family and then customize it with stickers, text or background images.

• Address: Japan Center Mall  1737 Post Street, Western Addition District. View map.
• Phone: (415) 440-1171
• Website: www.japancentersf.com

What's Around?Fillmore Street. A cute and pleasant street with lots of great options for shopping (Steven Alan, Mudpie) and dining (Roam Artisan Burgers, Boulangerie). View map.Raymond Kimbell Playground. A wood themed playground with a great fake grass area perfect for babies and toddlers. View map.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_btn title="BACK TO CATEGORIES" shape="square" align="left" i_icon_fontawesome="fa fa-angle-double-left" link="url:http%3A%2F%2Flittlevoyageurs.com%2Fsan-francisco||" add_icon="true"][/vc_column][/vc_row]