JANM and OOMO cube
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Japanese American National Museum Los Angeles

Explore over 130 years of Japanese-American history through art, artifacts, and powerful exhibits.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more reflective

CrowdLow
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JANM and OOMO cube

Japanese American National Museum Los Angeles

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more reflective

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore over 130 years of Japanese-American history through art, artifacts, and powerful exhibits.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"A must-visit for understanding a crucial part of American history and Japanese-American resilience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Easy Public Transport Access

The Metro Gold Line's Little Tokyo/Arts District station is right outside! :train2:

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The exhibits, especially the internment displays, are deeply moving. Plan for at least 2-3 hours. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

WWII Japanese American Internment Exhibit

WWII Japanese American Internment Exhibit

Main Exhibition Hall

A powerful and moving exploration of the unjust internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.

Go For Broke Exhibit

Go For Broke Exhibit

Main Exhibition Hall

Honors the Nisei soldiers of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team and 100th Infantry Battalion.

Rotating Exhibitions

Rotating Exhibitions

Various Galleries

Discover diverse stories and perspectives on Japanese-American life, culture, and art.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to JANM

The Japanese American National Museum (JANM) in Los Angeles offers a profound look at over 130 years of Japanese-American history. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds, especially if you're interested in the impactful WWII internment exhibits. Check their website for current exhibitions and special events.

Getting to Little Tokyo

JANM is conveniently located in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles. The Metro Gold Line's Little Tokyo/Arts District station is right at its doorstep, making it easily accessible via public transport. Parking can be challenging in the area, so the train is often the most stress-free option.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more reflective
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

😲 The LARGEST Japanese street food fest in socal is coming back 👏 CAN’T WAIT 📍OC Japan Fair, Oct 17-19 #la #oc #thingstodo #japanese #Foodie
@jenz_losangeles
34.5K likes • 435.1K views

🎯 Easy Public Transport Access

The Metro Gold Line's Little Tokyo/Arts District station is right outside! :train2: Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The exhibits, especially the internment displays, are deeply moving. Plan for at least 2-3 hours. :clock1:

Little Tokyo’s Japanese American National Museum Stood Up For DEI, Then Lost Funding Like many museums across the country, JANM has recently been targeted by the Trump administration. After receiving a letter saying that their programs do not align with the current administration’s goals, their funding was cut by $1.7 million (with an additional $5 million still in limbo). Reporting for L.A. TAC...
lataco
5.1K likes • 88.1K views
Last week our staff toured the Japanese American National Museum in the heart of Little Tokyo in Downtown Los Angeles. @jamuseum was founded to preserve, share, and celebrate Japanese American history. ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ The parallels between the identity-based discrimination, loss of civil rights, and blatant racism that Japanese Americans experienced during WWII and in incarceration camps in the U.S. and som...
holocaustmuseumla
0 likes • 1.7K views

📚 Check Current Exhibits

JANM always has compelling rotating exhibits alongside its permanent collections. :pagefacingup:

📍 Combine with Little Tokyo

Explore the surrounding Little Tokyo area for dining and cultural experiences. :city_sunrise:

Did you know there is a gift shop inside of @jamuseum? 🌸Check out the museum store for unique gifts ranging from fine jewelry to picture books! You can also check them out @shopjanmstore Japanese American National Museum 📍100 N Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012 #golittletokyo #littletokyo #dtlalife #museums
golittletokyo
839 likes • 18.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Easy Public Transport Access

The Metro Gold Line's Little Tokyo/Arts District station is right outside! :train2: Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The exhibits, especially the internment displays, are deeply moving. Plan for at least 2-3 hours. :clock1:

📚 Check Current Exhibits

JANM always has compelling rotating exhibits alongside its permanent collections. :pagefacingup:

📍 Combine with Little Tokyo

Explore the surrounding Little Tokyo area for dining and cultural experiences. :city_sunrise:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Japanese American National Museum for its profound and moving exhibits, particularly those detailing the WWII internment experience. The museum's accessible location in Little Tokyo and its role in preserving Japanese-American history are highly valued. Some visitors note that the sensitive nature of certain exhibits requires emotional preparation.

"This museum is ideally situated on the edge of Little Tokyo in Los Angeles. With the museum itself, along with the nearby shops, cafés, and restaurants, it’s a great place to spend a few enjoyable hours."

G Whizz

"Hello, I just wanted to draw some attention from the Museum to this review. I absolutely love this museum and I love what you guys do by having this museum exist in general. As a person of color from So-Cal, here, I believe Japanese-American History shouldn’t be erased. With that being said, I gave this review only one star because I’m disappointed at the fact this museum is temporarily closed at times like these where we see history repeating itself. Brown families are being separated once again. People are being kidnapped and taken to encampments basically. And this museum is temporarily closed???!! Please, I beg of you..Please open your doors to the public again. People need to see your exhibits so that we can share these exhibits with more and more people and make sure that we don’t let history keep repeating itself."

Noemi Noyola

"Got some free tickets. Got there 2 hours before closing time. Enjoyed the whole place.
Kid friendly just make sure they're respectful because we experienced some little rude sh!ts when we were there.
They have an area where they give you some sort of camera you walk around that room and it shows you old school pictures and stuff.
Overall awesome place to learn about how crazy it was for the Japanese people.
Oh yeah no parking and hard to get street parking so there is paid parking lots around. Also after the museum you can hit up all those restaurants and shops in the plaza across the street."

Jo Ca

What People Like

Impactful internment exhibits
Rich historical context
Convenient Little Tokyo location

What People Dislike

Emotionally heavy content

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is easily accessible via public transportation. The Metro Gold Line has a direct stop at the Little Tokyo/Arts District station, which is right at the museum's doorstep. Reddit If driving, be aware that parking in Little Tokyo can be limited and costly; several paid parking lots are available nearby.

Yes, there are several paid parking lots and garages in the vicinity of the museum in Little Tokyo. However, parking can be competitive, especially during peak hours or events. Reddit

For convenience and to avoid parking hassles, taking the Metro Gold Line to the Little Tokyo/Arts District station is highly recommended. Reddit

Yes, the Japanese American National Museum (JANM) is a central attraction located in the heart of Los Angeles's historic Little Tokyo district.

Absolutely! JANM is within walking distance of many other Little Tokyo landmarks, including the Hompa Hongwanji Buddhist Temple and various shops and restaurants. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The museum's hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. Generally, they are open Tuesday through Sunday, with some days offering extended evening hours. TikTok

Admission fees are subject to change. It's recommended to visit the official JANM website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts or free admission days. TikTok

While walk-in tickets are often available, booking your tickets online in advance is a good idea, especially for popular exhibitions or during busy periods, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. TikTok

The museum may offer discounts for seniors, students, children, and members. Check their website for details on eligibility and how to apply for these rates. TikTok

Yes, JANM is committed to accessibility and is generally accessible for visitors with disabilities. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility needs or information. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The permanent exhibits on the Japanese American internment during WWII and the 'Go For Broke' exhibit honoring Nisei soldiers are highly recommended and deeply impactful. Reddit

Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is sufficient to explore the main exhibits thoroughly. However, if you plan to delve deeply into each display or attend a special program, you might need more time. Reddit

While the museum's subject matter, particularly the internment exhibits, can be sensitive, it offers valuable historical lessons. Some exhibits may be more suitable for older children and teens who can grasp the historical context. Reddit

The museum often offers guided tours, which can greatly enhance your understanding of the exhibits. Check the museum's schedule upon arrival or on their website for tour times and availability. TikTok

Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in most areas, but it's essential to look for signage or ask museum staff for specific guidelines. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the museum is located in Little Tokyo, which offers a wide array of dining options, from traditional Japanese cuisine to other Asian flavors and vegetarian-friendly choices. Reddit

While the museum itself may not have a full-service restaurant, it's surrounded by numerous eateries in Little Tokyo, providing plenty of choices for a meal or snack. Reddit

You can find authentic Japanese ramen, sushi, bento boxes, as well as other Asian cuisines. Many restaurants in the area are also accommodating to vegetarian diets. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography rules can differ for special exhibitions. Typically, non-flash photography for personal use is allowed in permanent collection areas. Always check for signage or ask staff. TikTok

The museum's architecture and the poignant displays themselves can be very photogenic. Look for opportunities to capture the emotional resonance of the exhibits. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Japanese American National Museum delves into sensitive historical topics like WWII internment, it offers valuable educational opportunities for families. The museum provides context for understanding historical injustices and the importance of cultural heritage. Consider focusing on exhibits that highlight Japanese-American contributions and cultural traditions, which can be more engaging for younger audiences. Reddit

It's advisable to prepare children for the nature of some exhibits, particularly those related to internment, by discussing the historical context beforehand. The museum's location in Little Tokyo also offers a chance to explore the vibrant neighborhood, which can add an element of fun and discovery to the outing. Look for any family-specific programming or educational materials the museum might offer.

🚶 Budget Travelers

The Japanese American National Museum offers a rich cultural experience that can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. While admission fees apply, they provide access to deeply impactful exhibits. TikTok To maximize savings, consider visiting during any potential free admission days or looking for discounts if eligible (e.g., student, senior). TikTok

Furthermore, the museum's location in Little Tokyo means you can find affordable and delicious dining options nearby, from casual eateries to bento box specials. Reddit Utilizing the Metro Gold Line to reach the museum is also a cost-effective transportation choice compared to parking fees and ride-sharing services. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Impact of WWII Internment Exhibits

The Japanese American National Museum is perhaps most renowned for its powerful and unflinching exhibits detailing the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. These displays, often featuring personal artifacts, photographs, and testimonies, offer a deeply moving and educational experience. Visitors frequently describe these exhibits as heartbreaking yet essential, providing crucial context to a painful chapter in American history. Reddit

These exhibits are not just historical records; they are a testament to the resilience and strength of the Japanese-American community. They serve as a vital reminder of the consequences of prejudice and the importance of civil liberties. The museum's commitment to preserving and sharing these stories ensures that these experiences are not forgotten. Reddit

Many visitors recommend dedicating significant time to these sections, as the emotional weight and historical depth require thoughtful consideration. It's an experience that often leaves a lasting impression and sparks important conversations about history, justice, and human rights.

Navigating Little Tokyo and Public Transport

The Japanese American National Museum is a cornerstone of Little Tokyo, a vibrant historic district in downtown Los Angeles. Its prime location makes it incredibly accessible, especially for those utilizing public transportation. The Metro Gold Line offers a direct route, with the Little Tokyo/Arts District station conveniently situated right at the museum's doorstep. This makes it a breeze to reach from various parts of the city, avoiding the notorious LA traffic and parking challenges. Reddit

Beyond the museum, Little Tokyo itself is a destination worth exploring. It's a hub for Japanese culture, offering a rich tapestry of restaurants, shops, and community centers. Visitors can easily spend a day immersing themselves in the area, enjoying authentic cuisine, browsing unique goods, and experiencing the neighborhood's distinct atmosphere. Reddit

When planning your visit, consider combining your museum trip with a stroll through Little Tokyo. This allows you to fully appreciate the cultural significance of the area and enjoy a diverse culinary scene. The proximity to other attractions and the ease of public transit make it an ideal spot for a day of exploration and learning.

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