Planning for an archway began in 1984, to be jointly funded by Washington DC's newly-announced sister city, Beijing.

[1] Local architect Alfred H. Liu designed the Friendship Archway in 1985 after city officials rejected plans for twelve smaller arches to be placed throughout Chinatown, each decorated with one of the Chinese zodiac animals.

Meanwhile, the local Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association announced plans for a second privately-financed gate at the neighborhood's eastern border, near 5th and H, although the financing fell through later.

[1][6] Erected to celebrate friendship with Washington's sister city of Beijing,[2] it was hoped the arch would reinforce the neighborhood's Chinese character.

[9] The colorful, US$1 million work of public art includes seven roofs covered in 7000 tiles and 284 dragons (272 painted and 12 carved) in the style of the Ming and Qing dynasties.