Since the last century, Little Tokyo has become a unique space in Los Angeles. It is one of only three official Japanese towns located in the U.S.A.
You
will explore delightful shops, tasty restaurants, amazing museums, important cultural landmarks, and botanical gardens in Little Tokyo. You should spend at least 3-4 days there for complete exploration. The following are the things you must do in the Little Tokyo neighborhood.
Visit the James Irvine Japanese Garden
This is open to the public. The visit is entirely free of cost throughout the year. James Irvine Japanese Garden is located in the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center (JACCC). It features a beautiful garden with a waterfall. This also includes approximately 170 feet of stream and blooming trees with flowers. You will observe handcrafted cedar bridges. This garden is decorated to reflect the Zen tradition of the popular gardens located in Kyoto.
Visit the Union Center For The Arts
This famous building has three arts organizations: LA Artcore, East-West Players, and Visual Communications. The first one aims to help the careers of visual artists from different backgrounds. The admission is free of cost. The second one focuses on developing and expanding Asian Pacific performance. The last one is completely dedicated to the accurate and honest portrayal of Asian Pacific Americans and their culture via media arts.
Taste authentic Mochi and Ice Cream Mochi
Fugetsu-Do Mochi is the longest-running mochi business in this area. The family started their business in 1903. They are popular for their vast range of handmade Japanese confections. They include chocolate-filled mochi, small sweet cakes, and so on. If you prefer the ice cream-filled variety, do visit Mikawaya, the inventor of Mochi Ice Cream. You will get fresh and small balls of ice cream, wrapped in the sweet sticky rice dough. They have traditional flavors like vanilla and green tea, and non-traditional flavors like guava and mint.
Visit the Japanese American National Museum
This is the only U.S. Museum entirely dedicated to sharing the experiences of Americans of Japanese descent. The admission fees are free each Thursday from 5 pm to 8 pm. You will explore much cultural significance in this museum.
Eat the best Ramen in Little Tokyo at Daikokuya
Ramen is the most famous food for the Japanese. If you wish to enjoy delicious Ramen, the best option is Daikokuya. Order this Daikoku ramen with their popular Tonkotsu soup served with Chijeri-style noodles. This place is expensive, so it is suggested to plan accordingly.
Shopping at the Galleria is a must
If you love shopping, this is the best place for you. You will get a vast range of specialty stores, arcades, fashion boutiques, and restaurants, along with a market dedicated to Japanese culture. You can also find anything at Daiso, a famous shop for household items, pets, beauty, and office supplies, along with an amazing snack section.
So, enjoy your stay in this beautiful Japanese neighborhood.
