What things to do in Little Tokyo? Little Tokyo is a vibrant must-visit neighbourhood located in the centre of Downtown Los Angeles. It is one of the most historic places that stands alive to date with culture, food, and a shopping experience for all local and international visitors. You will be delighted to discover the history of the Japanese Americans, Japanese cuisine such as Ramen, and lots of fun activities to engage in while there. Here is a guide to 20 things to do in little Tokyo.
1. Visit the Japanese American National Museum (JANM)
No adventure in Little Tokyo should be started without going to the Japanese American National Museum. This museum is an important center that repeats the story of Japanese Americans through moving artifacts, exhibits, and personal stories. The exhibition about the internment of Japanese people during World War II is especially insightful, so don’t forget to check it out.
Location: 100 N Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
2. Stroll through the Japanese Village Plaza
Little Tokyo cannot be seen without a walk through the Japanese Village Plaza that represents a bustling outdoor shopping mall. It boasts a large number of sushi spots, little gift shops like Tokyo Lifestyle, and all kinds of eateries. The visitors can also take pictures with the iconic red lanterns and have a rest.
Location: 335 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
3. Savour Authentic Ramen at Daikokuya
Irresistible ramen. When you start feeling insatiable hunger, visit Daikokuya Ramen. Although getting there may mean waiting in a queue, this dine-in will definitely be worth your time. The tonkotsu Ramen is high on flavour and always leaves you full. Top it off with a set meal that treats you to a small salad and rice bowl.
Location: 327 E.1st. St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
4. Find the Best Matcha at Tea Master Matcha Cafe & Green Tea Shop
The secret to the best matcha is I am a genuine matcha fan, and that is why I never miss a visit to the Tea Master Matcha Cafe. This café serves all matcha-related items, including lattes and frappes and even the traditional matcha tea ceremony. It is the right place to kick back after a long day.
Location: 450 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
5. Explore the Go for Broke Monument
pay respects to fallen heroes Go for broke memorializes the Japanese American soldiers who participated in World War II. It is a serene, lovely place to revive memories of these heroes. Also, check the names written on the monument and pay your respects.
Location: 100 N Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
6. Shop at Kinokuniya Bookstore
If you are a bookworm, do not miss Kinokuniya bookstore! It is a Japanese chain, but their U.S. locations in New York and Los Angeles have captured many hearts with their various manga, anime art books, cookbooks, stationery, and more.
Location: 123 Astronaut Ellison S Onizuka St #205, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
7. Try Japanese Street Food at Mitsuru Cafe
If you are someone who enjoys some traditional Japanese street snacks, make sure to visit Mitsuru Cafe. This small food stand based in Little Tokyo has been around for over 30 years and provides the best takoyaki octopus balls in town and imagawayaki sweet red-bean cakes.
Location: 117 Japanese Village Plaza Mall, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
8. Take a Picture with the Yagura Tower
The Japanese Yagura Tower in the Village Plaza is a bright landmark of Little Tokyo. Where could you find such colours and design? If you need a selfie or a group shot, it is your place!
Location: 335 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
9. Indulge in Japanese Sweets at Fugetsu-Do
Next, take your taste to the oldest Joint confectionery in the US, serving since 1903! Fugetsu-Do’s offerings include its specialty mochi, handmade but with condiments like strawberry, mango, and green tea including. Would you take a whole box for yourself or share?
Location: 315 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
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10. Unwind at James Irvine Japanese Garden
James Irvine Japanese Garden is another ideal place to take a break and catch your breath from the fast-paced world of Los Angeles. Hidden inside the Japanese American Cultural & Community Centre in Little Tokyo, the James Irvine Japanese Garden is a quiet place with a koi pond, a waterfall, and lush greenery. It is thoroughly unnoticed by locals and visitors.
Location: 244 San Pedro St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
11. Discover the Art at MOCA Geffen Contemporary
Those who appreciate the world of art may also find MOCA Geffen Contemporary appropriate for a visit. It is not a fully Japan-related museum, but the MOCA features temporary exhibitions of the top modern artists across the globe and stands near the Little Tokyo district.
Location: 152 N Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
12. Visit the Nisei Week Festival (if You’re Lucky!)
if you’re lucky! If you’re visiting in August, you might be able to catch the Nisei Week Festival, an annual celebration of Japanese culture that’s been going strong since 1934. Whether you see the parade of street food, music, and dancing, you can always take in the vibe of Little Tokyo at the liveliest time to do so.
13. Enjoy Sushi at Sushi Gen
Little Tokyo in Los Angeles can boast many sushi restaurants, but Sushi Gen is probably the most famous. The sashimi lunch special at Sushi Gen is the stuff of legends – fresh, generous, and affordable. Be prepared to wait during the busy hours!
Location: 422 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
14. Explore Anime Jungle
Browse Anime Jungle Anime Jungle are you a fan of anime? Find your anime paradise here! Get your hands on one-of-a-kind figures, DVDs, portfolios, and more that you never knew existed. And you don’t have to be an otaku; even a casual fan will find something awesome to take home.
Location: 319 E 2nd St UNIT 103, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
15. Learn Origami at the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center
Learn Origami JACCC. Make sure to keep an eye on the JACCC schedule for an Origami Class. You can practice Japanese culture with this hands-on traditional Japanese craft. Everyone will enjoy folding cranes and some other designs.
Location: 244 San Pedro St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
16. Browse the Little Tokyo Galleria
Take a leisurely stroll through the Little Tokyo Galleria If you feel like shopping and eating, take a walk through the Little Tokyo Galleria. Here is a Japanese shopping mall with several levels of stores. You can buy groceries, go to a beauty salon, have a coffee at the café, and even sing karaoke. You can also buy some souvenirs and snacks there.
Location: 333 S Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States
17. Sip Craft Cocktails at Wolf & Crane
Drink a highball at Wolf & Crane. Feel like having a drink before going home? Try the trendy bar Wolf & Crane, where they serve Japanese whiskey and craft cocktails. However, the real star here is Highball, the most popular use of soda around. Meant for hot days, you’re sure to enjoy it after a day of getting to know the city. Cheers!
Location: 366 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
18. See the Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple
The Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple is one of Little Tokyo’s oldest and most revered landmarks. The temple’s stunning and serene grounds are a little slice of peace in the big bustling city. Visitors are welcome if respectful manner to the sacred place.
Location: 505 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States
19. Take a Self-Guided Historic Walking Tour
You can find maps for self-guided walking tours of Little Tokyo on the website of the Little Tokyo Community Council. This is a fantastic way to learn about Little Tokyo’s past, from its immigrant beginnings to the present day.
Website: Little Tokyo Community Council
20. End with a Japanese Beer at Far Bar
a Japanese Beer at Far Bar. Finish your journey in Far Bar. This laid-back spot offers an impressive menu of craft beers, among them such Japanese brews as Sapporo and Asahi. Great for trying something new. Order yourself a beer and some karaage chicken or gyoza. Delicious!
Location: 347 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
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Tips for Visiting Things to Do in Little Tokyo
- Best Time to Visit: Weekends are fun and busy, but weekdays are much more relaxed
- Parking: Metered street parking and a few commercial lots are available. Make sure you bring cash or a card.
- Respect the Culture: It’s a living neighbourhood – act respectfully, especially around the temples and memorials.
- Cash and Card: Most places will take cards, but having some cash at hand is recommended, especially for street vendors and small shops.
Final Thoughts
Little Tokyo is more than a neighbourhood it’s a cultural treasure, where history, food, art and community all come together. Whether you’re here for a day or a weekend, this list of the top 20 things to do will allow you to make the most of your visit. So tighten your sneakers, come hungry, and be ready to discover this colourful region of LA!
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