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Japanese American National Museum
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Museums Event Planning & Services Venues & Event Spaces Museums, Venues & Event Spaces [Edit]
369 E 1st StLos Angeles, CA 90012
Neighborhood: Downtown
(213) 625-0414
- Hours:
Tue-Wed, Fri-Sun 11 am - 5 pm
Thu 12 pm - 8 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
97 reviews for Japanese American National Museum
Review Highlights
"Their exhibit on the "Internment" camps is moving."
(in 15 reviews)
"...who were imprisoned during World War II, so the exhibit..."
(in 4 reviews)
"And visit the Go For Broke Monument, it's right down the..."
(in 3 reviews)
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97 reviews in English
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Review from eugi h.
Came here for the Oshogatsu Festival yesterday and received free admission into the museum! They had the "Drawing the Line" exhibit going on, and I thought it was a great collection that showcased the history of Japanese-Americans since their first arrival to the US and especially through the WWII era. There were great art pieces and eye-opening historic collections of articles that are really worth the read.
The museum store on the first floor has some really cute stuff, and Chado Tea has a storefront in the museum as well! I'll have to try it out one day! -
Review from Veronica V.
Downey, CA
1/8/2012
First time coming here and I loved the experience...
This museum has a lot of great Japanese history and it was a nice learning experience for my nephews (7 and 8yrs old) and niece (3yrs old), they actually enjoyed looking around and learning a bit of history through the pictures and exhibits.
We came to the Oshogatsu Family Festival; celebrating the New Year of the Dragon. They had a lot of fun activities for the kids and adults to enjoy. They had arts & crafts, making onigiri (rice ball), choosing fukubukuro (lucky bag), origami, Mochitsuki show and so much more.
We got to explore the museum and hear and read a bit of the history of the early Japanese Americans and their struggles. The staff are all very friendly and informative. I especially loved the way they had a staff member explaining some of the pictures and historical items to the kids, done in a such a nice and simple manner to hold the kids interest.
* Plenty of parking around the museum ~ $5-10.
* The gift shop has a lot of great books and little unique things to purchase that you wouldn't find elsewhere (some things are a bit pricey).
* Plenty of restaurants and shops to visit at walking distance.
* Close to Metro (across the street) if you chose to not drive.
* Free on Thursday's from 5-8 and every 3rd Thursday of the month or just $4-9 general admission fee.
* They have a great website with lots of great information, definitely have to check it out.
They also have a cafe which I didn't get to try, maybe next time.
:) Enjoy! -
Review from Míkéy L.
Los Angeles, CA
12/11/2011 13 photos
I went here for a Christmas toy drive. I didn't actually go into the museum exhibits, but just stayed in the main entrance area where the toy drive was taking place. The location is beautiful. When I have time, I'll actually go inside the museum.
But the entrance area had a lot of room for a stage and food stations. Very nice place to host an event.
YouTube teen sensation, Joseph Vincent performed. He had little groupies there. Haha. -
Review from Kelley U.
This review is only for "Drawing the Line: Japanese American Art, Design and Activism in Post-War Los Angeles" exhibit that is currently running at JANM until February 19, 2012. My uncle, Ben Sakoguchi, was one of the featured artists being exhibited in this show and we were invited to the opening night reception. The exhibit is described as, "Drawing the Line explores the changing notions of identity and community in Post-War Japanese American Los Angeles, from the 1950s to the early 1980s. Art and activism combine and are redefined through landmark works by a diverse group of exceptional artists and designers. Works of industrial and graphic design will be seen side by side with paintings and photographs; performances, theatrical and musical, will be shown with performance art and film. This exhibition was supported through grants from the Getty Foundation."
There was wide variety of artists featured in this exhibit including graphic designers, photographers, musicians, automobile designers and painters/artists like my uncle. Unfortunately, cameras were not allowed in the main art gallery exhibition area, so I was only able to get a picture of one of my uncle's prints that was for sale in the museum's gift shop. My uncle's art can be seen at http://www.bensakoguch... though. I was able to also photograph a beautiful 1963 Stingray Corvette in the front of the museum, that featured artist, Larry Shinoda, who was instrumental in Corvette and Mustang design.
It was a great exhibition opening with food and drink in the beautiful front area of the museum, with an introduction to the featured artists and performance by some of the musicians/singers featured in the show. I love attending my uncle's show openings. They are always so fun and make me so proud of his accomplishments as an artist and retired art professor. All the people I came into contact with who worked at the museum were all so very helpful and nice.
When I have more time, I definitely want to come back to this museum to see the many exhibits here at this very large museum. My parents and grandparents were interned in camp during WWII and I would like to see the extensive exhibitions on Japanese American internment here. -
Review from Steve S.
9/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
A museum I have always wanted to visit, so when I got assigned a work trip to downtown LA and I discovered my office is right down the street from the museum, I was all over it.
I enjoyed the Yojimbo exhibit, and even ordered a few of the first series to get started.
I was most moved by the internment exhibits there. Seeing the pictures and artifacts from that time, helped sink in what my Grandparents went through. I had tried to speak to my Grandpa about internment but he would always get upset, and my Grandma would not even talk about it. The multiple exhibits explaining the plight and suffering my Grandparent's generation went through, even with a smile on their face, really hit home to me.
I wish every American from sea to shining sea could take the time to walk through this museum so a travesty like internment will never happen again.
That's my story.. -
Review from Mike C.
Target has some random promotions throughout the year that allows patrons to come in to the JANM for free and I just happened to come in on one of those days. Regular admission price is $9 and discounts are given to student, seniors, etc.
Parking can be an issue since everywhere you go, you will have to pay, unless you park at the Office Depot for an hour or find some random street parking. The Little Tokyo metro is across the street so that can be alternative when coming down here.
I did enjoy my time here. Learned a lot especially about the concentration camps during WW2. There are a lot of paraphernalia during this time period including lots photos and a scale model of a typical internment camp.
It definitely gives you a different perspective on how Americans treated the Japanese people during WW2, but at the same time to have Japanese-Americans fighting for our side during WW2.
I would definitely go again and absorb the education, culture, and inspiration that is in every exhibit here. You should definitely go, as I noted several people in a tour who, after being questioned by the tour guide of a picture of Ronald Reagan, who he was? Most people said JFK or George Bush...and I'm thinking...wow...wtf...what kind of education did these people get?...and these are semi-old people too who pretty much lived during the 80's when Reagan was president...pretty ironic...don't you think?
Yah...yes...please come here and get some education...please!!!Listed in: Museums - Los Angeles
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Review from Ken L.
8/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
The revolving exhibit was "Year of the Rabbit: Stan Sakai's Usagi Yojimbo" & "Year of the Labbit Custom Show." These were okay, but the real meat for me was the history of the internment camps. They've done a great job on a vitally important topic that shouldn't be forgotten or glossed over.
The gift shop closed before I could go in, but we did go to the cafe. There are possibly hundred of teas in the cafe to choose from. I had one of the best Chai's of my life! Wow. -
Review from Deb T.
Pasadena, CA
8/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
As an descendent of internees, I absolutely appreciate the Japanese American National Museum. This was not my first visit, but every time I go it always leaves me in awe. I was here for the LA Tea festival, which was awesome. This visit was different because I brought my boyfriend who is from Indiana. I asked them if Japanese Internment was covered in High School and, not surprisingly, they didn't study this at all. In essence, my boyfriend was disturbed by what he learned and I can tell he was incredibly disappointed he never heard about this part of history.
With every visit, I am always moved because I get to visit a few moments in time that my grandmother went through and sometimes it is painful. However, I remember my grandmother stories and, despite the gross mistreatment of the Japanese Americans, she always talked about memories with a smile. I am proud to be a fourth generation Japanese American and a fifth generation Mexican American.
The collection is small, but I am sure it will continue to grow. They do have exhibits that rotate and they do focus on various aspects of the JA experience. I believe they are currently exhibiting Usagi Yojimbo and they have a super cute Labbit display (since it is year of the Rabbit). They have a wonderful Library where I was able to get my grandmother's family records including immigration records. The conference rooms are absolutely gorgeous and there are plenty of rooms for special events. I am very, very happy that the old location is still preserved (it used to be a Buddhist temple, which happens to be the same temple my grandparents were married). The museum is conveniently located near the Metro Little Tokyo Station so not only can I get lots of eating and shopping done, I can take time out of my day to learn about my roots. -
Review from Brian A.
Honolulu, HI
6/22/2011
One of the nicest moments in my life came when I was on the precipice of entrance to the Japanese American National Museum. I stood outside of the rotunda taking pictures, thinking that I had wanted to come here for some time. See, I'm the family tree historian and find the history of my family fascinating. This was one of my mecca's that I had on my list to visit.
It's a grand and dignified building. More imposing, yet welcoming and brighter than I expected. A great combination of glass, metal, light, and stone.
The docent's were awesome. We even met one who shared his own experience in the Internment Camps which was nice since my Grandparents never wanted to talk about their own experience. I brought my fiancee and her parents who are from Hawaii, so they get a different look at how minorities were treated on the mainland during WW II.
The main exhibit is located upstairs. Seeing my Auntie Katie's large quote on the wall was saddening and exciting all at the same time. The gravity of history weighs on you, the more and more you read and see the artifacts from the 1940's. What was interesting is that the exhibit although starting with Japanese Americans, ended with many other similar ethnic minority stories to tell.
The highlight for me was their library. They personally helped look up information about my family during the war and even told me that I could request via email for additional information as well. Since this is one of the few places that this information is readily available, it makes it that more important that we support places like this.
They also have a nice little store inside with all kind of Japanese inspired trinkets and such for sale. We parked right across the street in a pay lot that wasn't too expensive at all. -
Review from Albert L.
3/21/2011
JANM is definitely a first class museum that not only educates but inspires. Visitors are treated to a comprehensive series of exhibits that describe the history of Japanese immigration to the United States, from picture brides to the West Coast farming industry.
The most heartbreaking parts of the museum, without a doubt, deals with Japanese American internment. The last time I went, there was a preserved internment housing unit that really showed you how confined and rough life was within the camps. It's hard to see, and terrifying. Also inspiring is how many of these Americans went to war voluntarily even as their families were being held for internment by the government they swore to defend - the 442nd is still the most highly decorated regiment in the history of the American military.
There are also special exhibits that go on throughout the year (Star Wars decorated Daruma dolls?! Win.). I'm not sure how much it would usually cost to go in as I went in during one of the Musuem's "Free" days but I think it's definitely worth visiting regardless of the price - this is an important place to visit not only for Japanese Americans, but Americans in general. We still need to be reminded about how fragile even our basic civil rights can be and how what happens to on particular group of people, has consequences for the rest of us.
On top of that, the museum is beautiful, features a nice cafe and shop, and is smack near the middle of Little Tokyo. -
Review from Eimi M.
1/9/2011
My grandparents and their brothers/sisters were in the internment camps during WWII and a number of my grand-uncles were in the 100th/442nd regiment and MIS (Military Intelligence Service). So I've always wanted to visit JANM to see the history of my "people". The energy is somber and sad in the Tapestry Collection, where you read the stories and see the photographs from that era, yet you can still feel the hope and endurance to make it through. That was definitely inspiring.
While it's very important to remember the injustice that happened, I believe they should also show what the Japanese-Americans have accomplished since WWII. We are a successful, thriving and embedded fabric in this country and that should be shared, along with the struggles we've endured. -
Review from Alvin-Christian N.
Lake Balboa, CA
For a museum so small compared to the other ones you can see in Los Angeles, it's pretty amazing! Most of the actual exhibits are on the second floor, and there are a lot of cool relics and photographs on display. There's a lot of information to take in, so really plan enough time that you can read about what you are looking at and learn something.
Another reason why I really liked this museum was the Xploration Lab on the first floor. It was pretty interactive and really challenged you to think about your own feelings and perspectives. This exhibit is only up until June 12, so check it out before then if you can.
The third Thursday of every month is free, but it's also free if you go after 5PM on any other Thursday, so take advantage of that, though admission is pretty cheap already. Also support the museum by checking out the gift shop. There's a lot of fun things to go through, including books, pins, and various other knickknacks.
There's so much you can learn with every visit, and I look forward to coming back again sometime in the future. -
Review from Seven T.
San Diego, CA
5/5/2011 1 photo
...was up at this spot a while ago for the Kokeshi exhibit, and i must say, it was a great spot! They put on a really cool exhibit featuring Kokeshi dolls from a bunch of different artists including an ol' neighbor of mine James Watts. Now if i only had a couple hundred or thousand dollars to blow i could have picked up a few pieces, but hey, i just aint got it like that!
Id definitely make a return trip in the future to check out another exhibit or two....and, props to the "security" guy upstairs whose name i cannot remember, but he was quite the cool fellow! -
Review from Brian B.
2/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
It's not just Japanese history, it's American history and it isn't history that is focused on or even mentioned in schools and textbooks. I remember when I was in grade school and when WW2 history came up. I said I had Japanese family members that had been in camps, someone asked if I had meant to say Jewish. I said no and the teacher asked my to explain what I meant. I think that's when I realized that history books usually only tell one side of history and it excludes some very important parts of it.
I grew up hearing stories from my grandmother about WW2 but after I went here with her I heard so many more. It's one thing to visit it's another to have a person that remembers it. I will gladly rent out my grandmother for a large fee but if you don't want to rent her please, please please visit this museum. And visit the Go For Broke Monument, it's right down the street.
It was really incredible to see some of the collection, the photos and personal stories are heartbreaking, tragic and a part of history that should be shared.
This is the only museum on the west coast that has received the Institute of Museums and Library Services' (IMLS) National Medal, it's the nations highest honor for a museum. http://www.janm.org/pr...
I'm a grown man that doesn't cry. The museum almost got me.Listed in: Culture Vultures
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Review from Jim T.
10/19/2011
Being of Japanese-American descent, my sister bought Groupon tickets for myself, my father, mother, and brother. My father and mother were both internees during WWII. The exhibits, reconstruction of one of the barracks, and history lessons were powerful, and brought the past back to the present for my parents. They are both 86 years old. I could hear the tour guide giving his history lessons to the people in the wandering tours. My mother and father of course lived it. They had stories and bits of history which blew the "expert" away. Each photo, each exhibit brought back vivid memories for the two of them. We had tea and crumpets in the adjacent tea house (separate review). The high-light of the day was next door at the Japanese-American War Memorial. We found my father's name engraved in the back of the monument. My Dad, felt honored to have his name along-side those who died in WWII, and those he served with.
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Review from W K.
Van Nuys, CA
7/18/2011
I've been to this museum a few times, the last time I went w/ a friend who showed me on the Go For Broke memorial the names of two (TWO, holy crap) uncles who died serving this country in WWII. AND, he had another uncle who died as a Pearl Harbor civilian casualty.
The museum gives a detailed history of the Japanese in America, including the gory details of the internment. There's a lot of info about the 442nd, the all Japanese American army unit that showed an absolutely insane level of bravery in WWII. On my last visit they also had videos of interviews with WWII vets, including Tuskegee airmen and Filipino American veterans. One FA vet spoke teary eyed about the killing he had to do in battle, and how at times he wondered if the person he just killed had a family -- I found that to be particularly heart-wrenching. All pretty heavy stuff.
On a lighter side, I've seen displays of graphic magazine authors including my favorite, Adrian Tomine. On my last visit there was an exhibit about the California casino in Vegas, which was pretty damn funny to me b/c basically the fact that there is a Vegas casino where you can get spam and eggs is inherently laughable. I think these exhibits are important in that they allow for a more balanced view of Japanese American culture; a little bit of the whimsical is needed to counterbalance a history that has had a whole lot of sadness.
I saw a really interesting exchange between a tour guide and a visitor; an elderly white lady, upon seeing the displays about the internment, asked the guide if it all wasn't a bit one-sided. I stopped in my tracks b/c I had to see how this would play out (and also I was offended by the "you all look alike to me" racism implied in her question). The guide asked exactly what was the other side she was referring to, and she said that perhaps the internment was a justified response to the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The guide explained that the Japanese living in America are distinct from those living in Japan, and I immediately thought to myself, "good luck with that argument" b/c I've always had an impossible time convincing some people of that fact. I couldn't catch everything he said, but I belive he mentioned the independent report that concluded that the Japanese Americans posed virtually no security threat, and how it all was basically a complete ass-rape of civil rights and due process (and possibly a simple land grab of JA farmland, I might add). I don't know if the lady was completely brought over, but I'm sure at the very least a seed of truth was planted in her head. Personally, I would have added that the German Americans weren't imprisoned, and for fuck's sake, they had a fringe element that was actively sympathetic to Nazism. Correction; both the German Americans and Italian Americans were subjected to internment, but on a smaller scale.
And as infuriating as her question was, it was a beautiful thing to see it discussed passionately but politely -- the guide apparently believes countering ignorance with anger is counterproductive, i.e. he kept his cool. I totally applaud his tactics, good job my yellow brotha. The lady even thanked the guide profusely at the end of the tour, which I'm sure would not have happened had he devolved into f.u. whitey mode.
Now, everyone join in with me and sing We are the World. Btw, Michelle Malkin sux. -
Review from Chantelle T.
Los Angeles, CA
2/20/2011
This museum is amazing. Many times a single visit to a museum is enough for me--usually any subsequent visit will leave me less satisfied than the first time. JANM never ceases to captivate me. I've been here nearly 10 times already and I can still spend hours in there. One feature I absolutely love is the floor where they feature artifacts from each of the main internment camps.
Their special exhibits are amazing as well. The American Tapestry exhibit was so inspirational and greatly educational. JANM has a knack for sharing stories that touch the heart. I'm still thinking of some of the stories from that exhibit.
It's also home to the Hirasaki National Resource Center. I managed to get my grandfather's full file from his internment after talking to one of the workers there.
Support the museum! We need to keep it here for our children...I want it to be here for my children. -
Review from Belle B.
Walnut, CA
11/5/2010 1 Check-in Here
This is a great museum. The exhibits are powerrful and deep, and show an insight into a history of America not acknowledged in most textbooks. The impact of these displays shows great respect to many important American milestones. The Japanese are an honorable people with great pride and honor, which is truly and beautifully displayed at this museum. I often get teary eyed when I am here, as these things touch me so deeply. The volunteers are always helpful and knowledgable.
I also loved the gift shop. There were so many great things to explore there. I often go there for Christmas gifts for family members. highly recommended. -
Review from Kiki N.
6/21/2010 2 photos
I came out here because Justin aka roomie really wanted to come here to find his grandfather's name on one of the WWII memorial walls. I had no idea what to expect, but agreed to keep him company and learn some history and culture.
$9 for regular admission and $5 with student ID. The building has 2 floors with various exhibits and photos from WWII, the incarceration camps, Hawaii plantations and a modern photo gallery of mixed ethnic kids.
We spent almost 2 hours just walking through and reading everything. It was emotional and definitely a learning experience. We found Justin's grandfather's name on the wall outside and that was actually really exciting for both of us.
Downstairs by the entrance is a quaint gift store full of books, t-shirts, sushi novelty items, music, etc.
Overall, I felt that this museum is pretty small, but carried a lot of history and information that I found very interesting. It's an inexpensive, educational trip to the museum and you are bound to learn a thing or two about diversity, tolerance, history, and culture. Check it out if you're in the area! -
Review from Ken C.
3/19/2010
On thursdays, they have free admission after 5pm. If you're meeting up with people for food at Little Tokyo, it's worth coming a little early so that you could check out this place.
I burned two hours here pretty easily by taking my time on the exhibit about the history of Japanese-Americans in the US.
I was captivated when I was able to read the accounts of Japanese who were housed in "relocation centers" (concentration camps). Older people lamented the bad food, sharing a 10x14 space with 3 people, being imprisoned by gunpoint, and being relocated from their houses and their lives in LA to camps in freezing temps in Idaho. People who were children at the time recalled ice skating and wrote about being grateful that their parents sheltered them despite the horrid conditions.
It was awesome to read letters that Japanese-American children wrote to their American elementary school teacher as they were imprisoned in the camps.
There were several snippings from newspapers and publications like "Life" and "Time" and it was very interesting to see examples of how Americans were so intolerant of Asians. One picture that really caught my attention was a Japanese-American at a Vietnam protest at Berkeley. He was holding a sign: "no vietnamese called me fat chink".
After I walked through exhibits....I headed to their bookstore and it was full of books about mixed identities. So interesting. I'm not japanese-american, but I am mixed. I was able to identify with a lot of the stuff in those books. +1 cool point because the bookstore also sold chopsticks that doubled as a fork and knife.
Overall, this was a great way to spend an afternoon.Listed in: The bucket list
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Review from Robin Z.
10/5/2009 5 photos
One of my favorite LA museums, the Japanese American National Museum is a beautiful new structure housing wonderfully created objects reflective of the nature of the unique Japanese American. The permanent collection documents their struggle to break through rampant racism to gain a foothold of success as true Americans. With regular changeovers of temporary exhibits, we caught the recent Glorious Excess (Dies) exhibit of Mike Shinoda who took us for a viewing of his current depiction of our obsession with celebrity culture, unchecked consumerism and fascination with excess. I'm not into general excess or obsessions so no, I didn't bid on the "Icon" Honda motorcycle though it would've looked killer in my driveway.
We also saw the Kokeshi folk art exhibit of the curious and fun (mostly) wood carvings so "iconic" of Japan, with dolls representing everything from the cutest child to the ancient farmer to....what's that? A bat? Anyway, there's enough here to titillate the senses of anyone with a central nervous system (I'd hope).
While visiting, be sure to catch the "Go For Broke" monument about half a block north and read how these brave, young American Japanese carved a heroic and bloodied niche in the archives of American military history (http://www.yelp.com/bi...).
P.S., Glorious Excess (Dies) is now dead.Listed in: Kulture Klash
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Review from Lorrie N.
Fort Irwin, CA
12/28/2007 ROTD 3/3/2008
There is something about this museum that makes me want to become more involved with my heritage. I am 100% Japanese American, fourth generation. I grew up eating a little non-fishy sushi, burgers, pizza and spaghetti. I wish I had a better memory when it comes to history and culture.
I've gone here about twice a year for the past 3 years. I've enjoyed each visit. I think my goal will be to go alone one of these days, so I can just spend a couple hours trying to learn more about my history and what my mom and Grandparents went through.
I think it's hard for me to get focused enough to visit and appreciate this type of place often. This museum is beautiful and always pleasant to visit.Listed in: Southern Cal Spots (Los…, Everything Japanese
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Review from Ed C.
Los Angeles, CA
10/3/2007
Picture this:
You've work hard all your life to provide for your family.
You've raised your kids to follow the American Way.
Then one day, people of your heritage* - people you don't even know or care to know - attack your country... and before you know it, you're ordered by your government (the one whose wages you pay by lawfully paying your taxes) to give up all your belongings - your house, your appliances, your business - to "evacuate."
* Thanks for that word, ruth I.!
Over the course of your life, you've proven time and time and time again that you are loyal to America, but despite everything you've done and pledged, your ethnicity is all that matters.
That's what happened when Executive Order 9066 was signed by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt on February 19, 1942 - two months after the Japanese Imperial Military attacked Pearl Harbor.
Without due process, Japanese Americans were stripped of the lives they've built and of the possessions they cherished as they were rounded up and imprisoned in the middle of 'No Man's Land,' behind barbed-wire fences and with machine guns pointed at them.
Your wife, your children, your parents and your neighbors... you watch them all suffer from not only humiliation, but also from the exposure to the harsh desert environment.
Then on another day, the older of your teenage son tells you that he and his peers are volunteering to join the American Military. Despite the fact that your family has been wronged in the most egregious way by America, your son says he wants fight those who attacked America.
Your heart breaks into a million pieces because now your son will be making a tougher sacrifice than you did.
And your boy and his pals fight with great honor, tremendous courage and incredible skill - that by the end of it all, his Nisei unit - 100th Battalion / 442nd Regimental Combat Team (aka "the Katonks and the Buddhaheads") has become the most decorated unit in the American Military, earning the moniker "The Purple Heart Battalion."
This is what the Japanese Americans went through. And that's why this museum is important. -
Review from Jason S.
San Jose, CA
10/28/2010
This is a very beautiful museum. Great venue for events and information. They have tours available, and a combination of art, artifacts from the late 1800's, and contemporary exhibits make this a great place to visit. Student discount available. As are KCRW fringe benefits.
The souvenir shop leaves more to be desired. -
Review from Ed U.
12/15/2006 1 photo
This one is for my peeps. I have to admit I had not been to this museum since it first opened in the early 1990's since I live in SF, but I'm glad to see that it's still is a great and vital place to learn something about Japanese-American history.
With an auditorium, conference rooms and an extensive resource library, it's more than a museum, but that's what you go for here. I happened upon it as they have their "Ansel Adams at Manzanar" exhibit, which certainly shows the master photographer at the peak of his craft.
Lots of vivid images and not just from Adams as there are a number of photos and home movies that capture Japanese-American life in the past decades. Needless to say, the major focus is on the WWII internment camps (one of which my dad and his family was placed), but equally interesting is the history of the pioneering isseis (first-generation Japanese-Americans).
The $8 admission seems like a pittance to me, and I think the exhibits hold interest beyond merely my ethnic group. There's a great gift shop, too.Listed in: How a San Franciscan Makes It…
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Review from Rinky N.
East Bay
11/8/2006
We go to the JA National Museum whenever we're in LA.
I love that it is located in the heart of "Little Tokyo"
nearby the old (and late, great) Far East Cafe where
we had hundreds of meals and all the shops I remember
growing up with.
I'm sorry I missed the "Hapa" exhibit but we were lucky enough to be
in town for the fabulous Boyle Heights exhibit. We took my mom
who has Alzheimer's but remembers her childhood in Boyle Heights
quite well. We recognized some friends and relatives in the historic
shots.
Their exhibit on the "Internment" camps is moving. I especially like
the historic movie footage from different families, the memorabilia
from the camps, photos and stories of families in the camps.
Wonderful GIFT SHOP:
Fantastic books for adults and kids, clothing and great tee shirts
(Got Rice? Got Sushi? Urusai! along with other sayings we JA's
heard growing up. Nice jewelry, key chains, knickknacks, and even
Soldier dolls from the 442nd regiment.
Sad/Funny footnote. Whenever we take my mom there we show her
our son's and her other grandchild's name in the courtyard along with other children.
We also show her and my late dad's name on
a huge wall plaque in the lobby. I always point out that it is on the
same wall as Wells Fargo. And even though she doesn't remember
anything about the donations she always replies with a laugh,
"Gosh, I guess dad and I donated a lot of money!" -
Review from Emily W.
5/2/2011
This is a great place to hold community events, as well as a wonderful learning grounds to dive into the world of Japanese America. In addition, many Asian American community events happen HERE!! This is a happening place!!
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Review from Dru C.
8/17/2009 2 photos
We were lucky enough to get in for free this past weekend, in part because the 1st annual Tanabata Festival was going on. Nisei Week celebrates the Japanese culture and community, and there was a nice crowd right outside the museum checking out the street vendors.
We didn't spend too much time inside, but it was great exploring the exhibits and learning a little bit about history, especially the camps during WWII. There was also the Kokeshi exhibit, which pays tribute to the traditional Japanese folk toy that has different shapes, colors, and facial expressions.
Inside and out, the building itself is a beauty for all those who appreciate modern architecture. Depending on the exhibits, I definitely want to return and spend more time in the museum. If I go hungry while exploring, there's nothing to worry about with all the good eats around Little Tokyo. -
Review from Ken N.
Venice, CA
11/29/2006
This is a gorgeous building - light, airy, spacious, with tons of glass, polished granite, and wood giving an astonishingly peaceful vibe to a museum that is largely devoted to one of the worst civil rights violations in American history - the mass incarceration of more than 110,000 Japanese Americans - the majority of them American-born citizens, the rest of them prevented BY LAW from becoming American citizens by virtue of several Asian Exclusion Acts enacted by xenophobic people of another era.
But you're not reading this for a lecture, you just want to know, why should I go to this place?
It's got important permanent collections, including a wooden barrack that will give you an idea of just how primitive some of these buildings were, as well as artifacts, historical articles, and examples of what internees (or prisoners, if you like) were allowed to carry with them into their concentration camps (they could only bring what they could carry).
There are also a variety of programs, including play readings, improv and sketch comedy, story-telling hours, art projects, and various family-friendly things to do with the kids. There are screenings of films, and at the moment, there's a gorgeous exhibit of 54 photos taken by Ansel Adams at Manzanar, the first (of many) internment camp, just about five freeway hours from LA. Here's a link to an LA Times article about the current exhibit: http://www.calendarliv...
There's a great gift shop, filled with a variety of beautiful things, arts, crafts, clothing, and best of all, books.
Right in the middle of Little Tokyo, it's bounded by the Geffen Contemporary, East West Players, and the many restaurants of Little Tokyo, so you can make a day trip of it, using the Museum as the centerpiece. You don't have to be JA to find this place a great visit - just a human being with an appreciation for history, America, and democracy.Listed in: Asian Americana, Culture Club
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Review from Angelique Q.
Highland, CA
7/13/2008
One of my favorite museums and it's right there in Little Tokyo! I had to venture here for a class in college and I brought 2 friends to enjoy it with me.
Amazing history of Japanese Americans is presented there and they had exquisite exhibits, It made me want to learn more and more. The one exhibit that I still remember to this day is George Nakashima's exhibit.
What I also loved is that we also participated in origami making while there. So I enjoyed that interaction and plus I love love love origami :P
I hope to visit again sometime in the future. -
Review from Dennis C.
Austin, TX
5/3/2008 1 photo
Visiting this museum was well-worth it for me. I'm not Japanese, so I wondered how a visit to the JANM would resonate with me. I was not expecting the experience to feel so relatable or touching or emotional. But I was wrong.
It was a moving experience, reading old letters exchanged between husband and wife...one in an Internment Camp while the other fights in the frontlines of WWII. Fighting prejudice at home and Nazis in Europe. It was frustrating and infuriating to read internal government documents attempting to justify its blatantly wrong actions. The group photos of whole neighborhoods, where no men are present because they've all been rounded up to Camps or volunteered to serve in the military, were powerful images of how entire communities were impacted in those years. Shots of little children, holding on to their stuffed toys, crying and clinging to their mothers...that was just plain sad.
The museum covers much more than the Internment experience. It gives a very revealing glimpse into Immigration and the draw that America has had (and still has) on immigrants seeking a better life. It also shows the challenges, both for the immigrant and the native. As a child of immigrants, the museum helped me to enter into my parents shoes a bit. The fear, mixing with the hope, seasoned by the uncertainty.
The JANM sheds light on an aspect of our country's history that is woefully underexposed. Its enduring message, however, isn't one of militancy or disgruntlement or anger or despair. It's one of perseverance, optimism, and strength through community. That's perhaps its most important contribution. Check it out when you're in town. -
Review from Keila N.
4/1/2010 9 photos
I've been here on many occasions for different events. I enjoy this venue. It's conveniently located in downtown, LA.
The gift shop has cool and cute items. I once picked up a "dakko me" t-shirt for my niece.
This is a must visit for all nikkei jins. I visited this museum with my daughter also because I wanted her to have some understanding of her heritage.'
For a donation, you can have your child's name engraved in its courtyard. It's a wonderful concept.Listed in: Little Tokyo
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Review from Leonard A.
West Hollywood, CA
7/10/2008
NAME: Japanese American National Museum
TYPE OF PRODUCT OR SERVICE: A museum specializing in the history of the Japanese American
ADDRESS: 369 East First Street, Los Angeles, California 90012
PHONE: 213-625-0414
GENERAL LOCATION: North side of 1st Street at the intersection of 1st and Central
HOURS:
Museum Hours Tu, W, F, St, Sn: 11-5; Th: 11-8
Museum Store: T-Sn: 11-5; Th: 11-8
WEBSITE: http://www.janm.org/
RESERVATIONS: For schools free on Thursdays: 213-625-0414
REVIEW: "We share the story of Japanese Americans because we honor our nation's diversity. We believe in the importance of remembering our history to better guard against the prejudice that threatens liberty and equality in a democratic society. We strive as a world-class museum to provide a voice for Japanese Americans and a forum that enables all people to explore their own heritage and culture.
"We promote continual exploration of the meaning and value of ethnicity in our country through programs that preserve individual dignity, strengthen our communities, and increase respect among all people. We believe that our work will transform lives, create a more just America and, ultimately, a better world."
If you are at all interested in the Japanese American experience, here is the place where you will find that history enshrined. You owe it to yourself to visit at least once, and explore Little Tokyo -- something not to be missed!
PAYMENT: Membership subscription, general admission (Adults $8.00, Seniors [62+] $5.00, Students, Children [6-17] $4.00, Children under 5 and museum members free) at the door. Free general admission every third Thursday of the month from 5-8 pm.
PARKING SITUATION: There are several pay lots adjacent to the museum as well as metered street parking.Listed in: Culture, Education, Service…
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Review from Niko X.
Los Angeles, CA
4/7/2008
I spent this past Sunday afternoon here, while in Little Tokyo for the Cherry Blossom Festival.
The museum has two facets:
1) A permanent exhibit chronicling the history of Japanese Americans
2) Changing exhibits relating to Japanese and Asian Americans
The permanent exhibit was very well done, and extremely moving. Even though I'm not of Japanese ancestry I found myself fighting back tears while tracing the tragic events of the internment. It was humbling, especially for me given that I really knew so little of this national tragedy. I was shocked to learn how little of the story is taught in elementary and secondary school history classes. I can recall from my schooling a brief mention of the events, however they were qualified as being for the protection and welfare of Japanese and Japanese Americans. Something I'm embarrassed to say is an outright lie taught to our nation's youth.
I highly recommend a visit to the museum, especially for those unconnected with or unfamiliar with the details of the internment (especially history teachers). Seeing photographs of actual families involved, and reading the words of those affected gives a perspective one cannot gain without a physical visit to the museum.
The temporary exhibit at the time I went was entitled "one way or another" and was a collection of selected contemporary art pieces by Asian American artists. It was unique in that it involved artists from around the country, who represented many different Asian American cultures...even including south Asian and and Middle Eastern artists.
The pieces featured in "One way or another" were all unique, striking, and in some cases very bizarre. Some concerned Asian identity, and others did not. Their forms were as different as their subject matter, with many installation and site specific pieces. Additionally, the guided tour was excellent in that the tour guide encouraged extensive discussion among the tour participants. -
Review from Lauren L.
Los Angeles, CA
4/23/2010
I took my students here on a field trip and can't wait to go back sans children. While I feel I never get to fully experience locations while on a field trip, I tried to sneak away at moments to absorb this place. I just loved it. The location is easily accessible and the staff is friendly and willing to make sure you visit is a pleasant one. One aspect of this museum I found fascinating are the docents. Every docent is/was someone directly connected to a family member who were placed in the internment camps. You get chills when you stand in the foundation of an actual camp barrack. All the artifacts are clearly labeled and the flow of the museum is strong. There was some minor construction when I went so check the website for building updates.
Next time I come back I will try out the tea house in the same building that advertises more than 2,000 varieties of tea. -
Review from Richard T.
Carlsbad, CA
6/12/2008
Truly beautiful Museum! Any visit to Little Tokyo, or Los Angeles for that matter, warrants a visit here. The experience will warm your heart, educate your mind, and bring a tear to your eye!
Thank You for the great work JANM! -
Review from Sally Z.
Los Angeles, CA
10/1/2010
One of the best museums around. It doubles as a community space for non profit programs and its own amazing events. The building itself is gorgeous and I think there's space for about four exhibits usually. I personally think their best exhibit will always be the internment remnants. I love that JANM works so hard to preserve this important time of struggle.
They also usually have some kind of Japanese traditional culture exhibit. The Mike Shinoda exhibit they hosted was amazing, too. Definitely a keystone piece in Los Angeles Japanese American and Asian American culture. -
Review from Corazon R.
Los Angeles, CA
6/12/2007
The beautiful new building is a wonderful welcome into Little Tokyo if you're coming off Alameda onto First, and is an impressive structure next to MOCA Griffin. So beautiful, in fact, that area is frequently used for commercials of different varieties.
It's a great place to get some perspective of the Japanese-American story most of us may or may not be aware of. Docents are very dedicated and nice people, the gift shop is great, and the people who work there in general are very kind. Their changing exhibits are also well-curated.
My biggest qualm with them is that they have such an amazing collection, but that's largely underutilized and not made aware to the public. All the same, it's a place worth going. -
Review from Heather P.
Yorba Linda, CA
9/20/2009
This place is awesome. Every 2nd Saturday Target sponsors them so admission is free and they provide activities for kids and large children like me. Parking across the street is pretty cheap ($6.50).
I came here during two really good exhibits, one by Mike Shinoda and a contemporary folk art exhibit. Their permanent exhibit on the timeline of Japanese Americans in the US is badass as well. The curators are so legit, some having experienced the internment camps first hand.
Keep on the look out for them handsome Japanese fellas too. They lurk around downstairs. :D -
Review from Yen D.
Santa Barbara, CA
7/11/2010
Absolutely fantastic museum! Only $5 for students, $9 for regular people. Right now they have a great exhibit on mixed kids and identity, in addition to their usual amazing, heart-wrenching permanent exhibit. They also have various film screenings and such in the democracy center across the street, which are free with admission and include Q&A sessions with the directors etc.
As for the previously-mentioned heart-wrenching permanent exhibit, I think it's so so important for all of us as Americans (or international visitors) to see what happened and hear the stories etc. There's a LIFE article on display with a diagram of "How to Tell Japs from Chinks" I think. As my friend said later, "How could this happen?" That's why we have to go, and support this excellent museum.
