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Free Things to Do in Little Tokyo

The heart of Japanese American LA — free gardens, monuments, public art and a walkable historic core downtown.

80free places24upcoming events98near transit 🚆
Map of 80 free places in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles
80 free spots in Little TokyoOpen interactive map →

Free events near Little Tokyo

Happening now and coming up within walking distance.

About Little Tokyo

Little Tokyo is one of only three remaining Japantowns in the country, and much of it is free to experience: the James Irvine Japanese Garden, the Go For Broke Monument, the Friendship Knot sculpture and the public plazas of Japanese Village.

Packed into a few downtown blocks are monuments, memorials and public art that tell the neighborhood's history, alongside the Japanese American National Museum and a dense, walkable streetscape.

James Irvine Japanese GardenGo For Broke MonumentJapanese Village PlazaFriendship KnotPublic monumentsFirst Street

What's here

Public Art28Parks17Landmarks12Shelters6Food3Libraries2Food Assistance2Gardens2Viewpoints1Playgrounds1Museum & Culture1Cemeteries1Sports1Art1Museums1Other1

Free places in Little Tokyo

Frequently asked: free things to do in Little Tokyo

What are the best free things to do in Little Tokyo?

Visit the James Irvine Japanese Garden, see the Go For Broke Monument and Friendship Knot, walk Japanese Village Plaza, and explore the neighborhood's many public monuments — all free.

Is the James Irvine Japanese Garden free?

Yes — the James Irvine Japanese Garden behind the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center is free and open to the public.

Is the Japanese American National Museum free?

The museum offers free admission on select days and evenings; check its schedule. Little Tokyo's plazas, gardens and monuments are free any time.

Are there free events in Little Tokyo?

Yes — free cultural festivals and programs happen here through the year. The list on this page updates with current ones nearby.

Nearby neighborhoods

Civic Center334Arts District315Bunker Hill359Jewelry District334Chinatown314Financial District348Downtown Los Angeles298Fashion District282