Japanese American National Museum

The basics

A permanent exhibit called ""Common Ground: The Heart of Community” anchors the museum and tells the story of the Japanese American community through multimedia displays, documents, photos, and personal artifacts.

There's a special focus on the somber World War II topics of Japanese incarceration and the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Temporary exhibits tackle modern themes ranging from Japanese tattoo art and origami to issues of social justice and identity. Walking tours of LA’s Little Tokyo and neighboring Chinatown often pass by the museum. 

Things to know before you go

• The museum is ideal for history buffs and anyone with ties to the Japanese American community. 
• Scholars, genealogists, and other researchers can access the museum’s Hirasaki National Resource Center by request. 
• Check the museum website for upcoming lectures, art shows, and other special events.

How to get there

There is no parking on site, but paid street parking and lots are available nearby. Via public transit, take the DASH bus or the metro to the Little Tokyo / Arts District stop. Present your metro ticket to receive a discount on your admission.

When to get there

The museum is closed on Mondays and some holidays including July 4, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Check with the museum directly for details of free admissions.

Little Tokyo, Los Angeles

Surrounding the Japanese American National Museum, the Little Tokyo neighborhood offers a slice of Japanese right in downtown Los Angeles. A range of restaurants dish up everything from sushi and ramen to mochi ice cream and Japanese whiskey, while specialty shops are stocked with Japanese street wear, anime collectibles, and J-Pop albums. Check local event listings for festivals like Nisei Week and the Little Tokyo Night Market.