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Little Tokyo
Downtown Los Angeles Tour

By , About.com Guide

Three in one: a temple, a unique museum and the Go for Broke Monument.

Hongwanji Temple and Japanese American Museum, Little Tokyo

© 2007 Betsy Malloy Photography - Request a Little Tokyo Reprint
A National Historic District and the historical focal point for Japanese-Americans of Greater Los Angeles, Little Tokyo offers a lot to see. You'll find the expected Japanese restaurants and shopping in Little Tokyo, but also some interesting cultural opportunities.

Visiting Little Tokyo

One of the highlights of Little Tokyo is the Japanese American National Museum, the only one in the country that focuses on Americans of Japanese ancestry. Exhibits include an original barracks building from the Heart Mountain internment camp. Near the museum is the Go for Broke Monument, honoring Japanese American veterans of World War II.

Other points of interest in Little Tokyo include Yagura Tower, a replica of a fire lookout tower in rural Japan, the Irvine Japanese Garden and the Jodo Shu Buddhist Temple. The Geffen Contemporary, part of the Museum of Contemporary Art is also in Little Tokyo.

You'l find a self-guided tour of Little Tokyo at ExperienceLA, which will take you past Buddhist temples, outdoor artwork, art galleries and gardens. The Little Tokyo Business Association also suggests a walking tour itinerary. The Los Angeles Conservancy offers guided tours of Little Tokyo once a month. Reservations are required.

When you're done exploring Little Tokyo, go west on 2nd or 3rd and left on Hill Street to a tasty spot.

Little Tokyo Location

Japanese-American National Museum
369 E. First Street
Museum Website

Little Tokyo is on the downtown DASH shuttle route.

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