Los Angeles - Little Tokyo

Little Tokyo, the Japanese enclave in Los Angeles, with its numerous new buildings is a clear indication of a thoroughly prosperous ethnic group. Situated around 1st Street between Main and Alameda Streets, within walking distance of the City Hall, the Japanese Village Plaza quarter has developed, with a culture center, dozens of Japanese shops and restaurants and a large shopping center.

Must-see attractions nearby:

Los Angeles City Hall

Rodeo Drive

The few 19th century houses still remaining fit into the picture well. Today, more than 100,000 Japanese live in Los Angeles and the surrounding county; after the Japanese community had been decimated by internment after the war started in 1942, it is now bigger and probably richer than ever. Little Tokyo can easily be explored on foot.

The Little Tokyo Historic District, as it is known, still has some historic buildings from the 19th Century. The best way to see the area is simply to walk around considering the area is not that large. There are a number of walking tours that take in a Japanese Garden, markets, and museums.

Tips: Guided tours: The Little Tokyo Business Association arranges tours to the main places of interest. Meet at the plaza of the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center at 10 a.m. the first Saturday of the month.

Guides: Guided tour included with admission.

Los Angeles - Little Tokyo

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