Japanese American National Museum

The Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles is a premier institution dedicated to preserving and sharing the experiences of Japanese Americans. Located in the historic Little Tokyo district, the museum features compelling exhibits on immigration, internment camps during World War II, and postwar community life. With a 4.5/5 rating from nearly 400 reviews, it is praised for its thoughtful storytelling and educational programs. Visitors can view artifacts such as personal letters, photographs, and camp barracks, as well as rotating art exhibitions. The museum also hosts film screenings, lectures, and family workshops, making it a vibrant cultural hub. Its central location in Downtown LA makes it easy to combine with visits to other nearby attractions.

Don't miss

• The permanent exhibition 'Common Ground: The Heart of Community'
• Artifacts from WWII internment camps, including a reconstructed barracks
• Interactive storytelling stations with oral histories
• Special exhibitions on Japanese American art and pop culture

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Japanese American National Museum

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Good for

How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Check the museum's calendar for free admission days and special exhibitions.
• Photography is allowed in most galleries, but no flash.
• Parking at the museum's lot is validated for a discount; street parking is limited.
• Combine your visit with a meal in Little Tokyo, just steps away.

A bit of history

Founded in 1992, the museum is housed in a historic Buddhist temple built in 1925. It was established to counter the historical erasure of Japanese American incarceration and to promote cultural understanding.