Visit Tokyo without leaving southern California at the Los Angeles’ area Little Tokyo community. Governed as a non-profit, there are nearly 100 member organizations dedicated to enriching the Japanese American community within downtown L.A. Arts organizations include the East West Players, the Geffen Contemporary of MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art) and the Union Center for the Arts.
Soothe your shopping cravings at Little Tokyo Galleria, Japanese Village Plaza and Weller Court. However, if it’s cultural and historical sites you’re after, Little Tokyo has you covered. Visit Nishi Hongwanji Temple, the Koyasan Buddhist Temple, or head to the Home is Little Tokyo Mural. The Senzo Mural, Go for Broke Monument, and historical 1st Street in Little Tokyo or the Little Tokyo Library are fantastic places to start your adventure.
Japanese Infusion
The major historical, civic and cultural region dates to the 1880s. It’s one of just three Japantowns remaining in California and has overcome the Great Depression, discrimination, and forceful removal of citizens during World War II. Today, multiple generations back the various organizations, businesses and temples.
Want to visit Kyoto Gardens, the Japanese American National Museum, and the James Irvine Japanese Gardens? Little Tokyo is located in L.A. near Los Angeles Street and First Street. Walk to the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center or Little Tokyo Koban and Visitor’s Center to map out your tour of L.A.’s city within a city.
