An Inside Look at Little Tokyo: What To Do in 1 Afternoon

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WELCOME to Little Tokyo! If you’re looking for an inside look at Little Tokyo, you’ve come to the right place. This amazingly urban neighborhood in Los Angeles is rich in Japanese culture, history, street art, shopping, and plenty of amazing dining options.

A hub for live music, cultural events, and more, Little Tokyo is SUCH a hidden gem in LA. If you only have one afternoon, you can definitely see pretty much everything here.

Whether you’re visiting Los Angeles on vacation or a local looking for things to do, you won’t want to miss this incredibly walkable neighborhood. So, c’mon, get an inside look at Little Tokyo with me!

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Art & Museums Not-to-Miss in Little Tokyo

In front of the Japanese American National Museum in Little Tokyo
An Inside Look at Little Tokyo — *In front of the Japanese American National Museum*

Little Tokyo is actually only one of three official Japantowns in the U.S., which makes this area very special. If you love museums, you’ll be very happy here!

Be sure to check out the Japanese American National Museum. Opened in 1992, this museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Japanese Americans. There are over 60,000 artifacts on display, so be sure to save some time to explore here.

There’s also the Geffen Contemporary at MOCA next door, which has over 40,000 square feet of exhibition space. This building actually used to be a police car warehouse, and was renovated by the legendary architect, Frank Gehry.

You can definitely spend at least 1-3 hours at both museums, so keep that in mind when planning your visit.

Barbara Kruger at Geffen Contemporary at MOCA
An Inside Look at Little Tokyo — *Barbara Kruger*

Don’t miss the massive mural by renowned artist, Barbara Kruger. It’s a provocative piece that will leave you breathless! And of course, you can’t miss the epic metal sculpture by Nancy Rubins. It looks just like a spaceship about to take off.

Watch my YouTube video below to get a in-depth look at Little Tokyo & the Shōgatsu New Year festival happening that day:

LITTLE TOKYO, LOS ANGELES | What To See, Do & Eat in 1 Afternoon

Watch this video on YouTube

An Inside Look at Little Tokyo – Food Scene

Kura Revolving Sushi in Little Tokyo, An Inside Look at Little Tokyo

One of the best things about Little Tokyo is the abundance of delicious Japanese food. From sushi to ramen to tempura to teriyaki, you won’t leave hungry here.

If you love ramen, Hachioji Craft Ramen is hands down the most popular spot for ramen in Little Tokyo. There’s almost always a line, so be sure to plan ahead! Definitely get the shoyu ramen… sooo good.

There’s also My Ramen Bar not far from there and an amazing noodle and rice bowl spot, and of course, Prime Pizza! One of the best slices outside of New York. I also recommend Hama Sushi for very fresh sushi.

We put our name in for the waitlist at Kura Revolving Sushi Bar. I recommend adding your name to the waitlist as least an hour before you’re wanting to eat, then spend your time walking around Japanese Village Plaza.

I’ve been to this restaurant at least 5 or more times… it’s always so good. I have so much fun looking at all the sushi options and then grabbing a plate from the conveyor belt before it rolls away!

When you’re done, just slide the plate into the slot! This restaurant is right by the Japanese Village Plaza sign, so you can’t miss it.

An Inside Look at Little Tokyo’s Japanese New Year Festival and More

japanese new year, An Inside Look at Little Tokyo — *Dancing in Japanese Village*

If you’re in town for New Year’s Day, definitely head to Little Tokyo! I happened to be there on January 1, and much to my surprise, was delighted to find tons of people enjoying festivities for Shōgatsu, the Japanese New Year. I LOVED it!

There was music, dancing, street food, a kimono contest, men and women walking around in traditional attire, Japanese art for sale, and so much more.

If you know me, I love every kind of cultural celebration. I just love seeing how people come together and have a good time. I think it’s so special to be able to access another world even for just an afternoon, living right here in Los Angeles.

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The whole energy of the day was bright and enthusiastic, especially because this was the first official New Year Festival since the pandemic.

If you’re coming to Los Angeles in August, plan your visit to Little Tokyo for Nisei Week, another amazing festival celebrating Japanese-American culture and history, right here in Little Tokyo.

Shopping & More in Little Tokyo

poketo in little tokyo, an inside look at little tokyo — *The owners of Poketo. Photo: BONNIE TSANG*

Little Tokyo also offers an abundance of shopping options. You’ll love popping in and exploring anime figurines and trinkets. Head to Poketo for stylish accessories and home goods.

Definitely check out the two Japanese grocery stores (Nijiya Market and Mitsuwa Marketplace) in the area for the best imported goods straight from Japan, Korea, China, and more.

Koyasan Buddhist Temple, japanese, little tokyo

Also, an insider tip: Did you know LA’s first Japanese Buddhist temple is right in Little Tokyo? Yes! Go to the Koyasan Buddhist Temple to see its beautiful architecture featuring 30,000 imported roof tiles, a breathtaking statue of Buddha and matching altar display, as well as a stunning garden.

Only One Afternoon in Little Tokyo? Here’s Your Schedule

If you only have a few hours in Little Tokyo, here’s how I’d structure your time:

1pm: Arrive & put your name in at the restaurant of your choice. Walk around Japanese Village Plaza.
2pm: Lunchtime at Kura, a ramen restaurant, or Hama Sushi
3pm: Head to a museum
5pm: Stroll through shops and get delicious soft serve ice cream or boba bubble tea!

Thanks for taking an inside look at Little Tokyo with me! Questions? Send me a DM on Instagram.