The Japanese American National Museum to see an extraordinary set of exhibits delving into the history and traditions of Japanese American people. In the heart of the Little Tokyo area, the museum traces more than 130 years of Japanese American immigration and merged experience. Visit this museum to gain an insight into a rich and profound hybrid of cultures.
Admire the modern glassy sheen of the museum and climb the outdoor steps to its elegant entrance. Inside, learn about how Japanese immigration to the United States began in 1882, when companies were banned from importing cheap Chinese laborers.
Explore the temporary exhibits that have centered on numerous important cultural topics, from the effects of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima to the meaning of Japanese tattoos.
Purchase souvenirs and artifacts from the JANM Store. Handmade dolls and hero ornaments are among the fun and colorful items lining the shelves, alongside origami, jewelry and books relating to Japanese American culture.
Take a break in the Chado Tea Room, which has about 300 different types of tea. Attend one of the events here, including the Hinamatsuri Afternoon Tea, where children are encouraged to bring their dolls. You can get snacks and drinks from the Terasaki Garden Café.
The museum was inaugurated in 1992 as a way of celebrating the positives of Japanese immigration. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from late morning until early evening. There is a fee to enter the museum, with discounts for seniors and students. Young children can enter for free.
The Japanese American National Museum is in the Little Tokyo district of central Los Angeles. Arrive at Union Station and walk south for about 10 minutes to get here. You can also travel by tram to the Little Tokyo/Arts District or a bus to an adjacent stop. While in the area, make sure to see some of the nearby highlights, including the Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, the East West Players and the Japanese Village Plaza.
