Experience a World of Culture at Little Tokyo
Los Angeles, California, is one of the most frequently visited vivacious tourist destinations in the world due to its extensive filmmaking history, theatre glamour, energetic culture and diversity, world-class cuisines, rich history, artistic expression, beautiful landscapes, a wide array of beaches, fantastic weather and its close proximity to dozens of attractions, theme parks, beaches and much more. During your stay, be sure to visit Little Tokyo.
Visit Little Tokyo
Little Tokyo, a 134-year-old community founded as early as the late 1800’s, is a friendly, thriving community located in Los Angeles containing an abundance of hidden gems within. Explore several blocks containing a multitude of authentic restaurants, bars, and tea houses, over 50 unique shops, creative novelties, world-class museums, or theatres and live performances at one of the several Cultural Art Centers. Also catch a glimpse at the daily life of Little Tokyo’s hundreds of residents, as you walk past avant-garde housing units, business organizations, churches and temples, schools and childcare centers. There is something for everyone in Little Tokyo.
Stop by the Japanese American National Museum for the groundbreaking hapa.me interactive exhibit. This unique glimpse into mixed-race culture brings awareness to racial issues from the perspective of local residents. The current exhibit by artist and curator Kip Fulbeck contains a follow-up from his initial project performed in 2006 and offers guests updated statements and contemporary portraits of the same individuals who participated in the initial project. Observe first hand how these individuals have physically changed, and how their life experiences have evolved over the last 15 years.
For a more playful exhibit that children will also enjoy, explore Kaiju vs. Heroes. Artist Mark Nagata was gifted a box of unique figurines titled kaiju (monsters) and heroes by family members when he was 9 years old. A passion cultivated for a fading Japanese culture practice, and Nagata rejuvenated it with a creative twist. Browse through art paintings and photographs of some of his original kaiju and hero figurines, as well as many he designed himself as a way to recreate his own ethnic heritage, and journey through a traditional, and comical, toy invasion of the city.
If city and art exploration works up an appetite, a highly recommended unique gourmet restaurant is Daikokuya Ramen. This hidden gem seats few, but is worth the wait! Daikokuya Ramen offers guests exquisite homemade ramen with an exciting view overlooking Little Tokyo. With over 40 varieties of ramen to choose from, there is an option surely to satisfy your taste buds. All ingredients are fresh - delivered daily from the fish markets, or grown locally and purchased from the local farmers markets - and daily prepared, handmade ramen noodles with a family recipe broth. Experience traditional ramen as it should be - and that would otherwise only be available in Japan for an exceptionally affordable price. Daikokuya Ramen is an experience no visitor wants to miss.
Stay at Kawada Hotel
Walking distance from dozens of attractions, theatres, trendy restaurants, and a bustling nightlife, Kawanda Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles and is the perfect budget-friendly choice for visitors. This contemporary boutique hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, choice amenities, large flatscreen televisions, and microwaves and refrigerators in every room. Kawanda hotel provides on-site laundry and vending services, a business workstation and complimentary WiFi. Each morning, stop by the Cherry Pick Cafe and Juice Bar to enjoy a mouthwatering selection of artisanal cuisines, with an abundance of healthy options, from an extensive menu. For the lowest rates book direct at: www.kawadahotel.com.