Although relatively few Japanese actually live in or around Little Tokyo, the district nonetheless is a vital cultural, economic, and social centre for Southern California’s Japanese community, as well as for many visitors and business executives.

Established in 1903, the area thrived after World War I, but it did not fare so well during World War II, when some 30,000 residents were forcibly booted out of their community and into internment camps. Decades later, more than 200,000 Japanese Americans have reclaimed this territory, now a flourishing enclave thanks to money form Los Angeles’ Community Redevelopment Agency and by successful business entrepreneurs.

Within the Japanese Cultural and Community Centre are the Japan America Theatre, which presents everything from Grand Kabuki to contemporary performances and puppet theatre, and George J. Doizaki Gallery, which exhibits historical and new works as well as calligraphy.