House Of China

The House of China welcomes thousands of local, national, and international guests throughout the year to its ‘cottage’ in San Diego’s renowned Balboa Park.

The mission of the House of China (HOC) is to preserve, present, and promote Chinese culture and friendship. Every Sunday the HOC holds open house in Balboa Park and seasonal celebrations and special events in the community.

The HOC is a multi-generational, multi-cultural, non-political, non-profit organization. It offers comprehensive and inclusive educational services and programs. HOC partners with other Chinese-American organizations to enhance the local community and to offer friendship to those beyond San Diego.

HOC history began in 1935 in conjunction with the Panama Pacific International Exposition. Exposition officials approached the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association (CCBA) to raise money to furnish and staff a cottage during the exposition. CCBA readily agreed to the proposal and raised the necessary funds. May 25, 1935 was the date chosen as the auspicious date to open. The culmination of the effort was China Day, October 13, 1935, when an all girl troupe and band paraded from “Chinatown” at 3rd and Island Avenue to the Balboa Park Organ Pavilion. An enormous fireworks display lit up the evening sky.

In 1970, the national groups comprising the umbrella House of Pacific Relations (HPR) became incorporated. Also the HOC became an independent organization and through the unique civic efforts of the HPR both organizations realized mutual benefits.

The HOC occupies a cottage through a special occupancy permit of the City of San Diego.