San José Canton

San José Canton is the capital and main administrative region in Costa Rica's Central Valley, spanning multiple districts at high elevation. The area sits in a mountainous zone where the city and surrounding neighborhoods develop across varied terrain.

The area grew from a small parish founded in 1736 into a significant city through tobacco farming and later coffee trade expansion. It became the national capital in 1823 and developed into the country's main political and economic center.

The National Theatre stands in the city center as a symbol of 19th-century artistic achievement that shapes how people experience the area today. The building and its surroundings draw visitors and locals who value cultural events as part of their daily life.

Visitors arrive through the international airport and then move around using buses or taxis available throughout the area. The extensive transit network makes it straightforward to travel between different neighborhoods and explore the city.

The elevation of this region produces a pleasant climate with consistent temperatures throughout the year. This mild weather allows visitors to explore the area comfortably in any season without experiencing extreme heat or cold.

Location: San José Province

Capital city: San José

Elevation above the sea: 1,137 m

Shares border with: Curridabat Canton, Desamparados Canton, Alajuelita Canton, Escazú Canton, Belén Canton, Heredia Canton, Santo Domingo Canton, Tibás Canton, Goicoechea Canton, Montes de Oca Canton

Website: http://msj.go.cr

GPS coordinates: 9.93333,-84.08330

Latest update: December 19, 2025 22:32