The only authentic Chinese ceremonial gate in the United States marks the southern entrance to Chinatown at Grant Avenue and Bush Street. The green-tiled arch with stone lion guardians was a gift from Taiwan, designed by Clayton Lee, Melvin H. Lee, and Joseph Yee, and opened in 1970. The inscription across the top reads “All under heaven is for the good of the people,” attributed to Dr. Sun Yat-sen.
The gate faces south, which is the correct direction according to feng shui tradition. The male lion on the west side holds a pearl, symbolizing protection of the gate. The female lion on the east cradles a cub, representing the safeguarding of the people within Chinatown. Walk through the center portal and you’re on Grant Avenue, the oldest street in San Francisco.