Kyung’s guidebook
Downtown Los Angeles Guide
This is a guide to DTLA. I have not included the Arts District. For my recommendations for the Arts District, check out the Arts District guide.
Stop by the Museum of Contemporary Art to check out the latest show.
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Nykytaiteen museo
250 S Grand AveStop by the Museum of Contemporary Art to check out the latest show.
Located in Little Tokyo, the Geffen is an extension of the Museum of Contemporary Art. This space is used for contemporary art exhibitions and is home to the annual LA Book Fair.
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The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA
152 N Central AveLocated in Little Tokyo, the Geffen is an extension of the Museum of Contemporary Art. This space is used for contemporary art exhibitions and is home to the annual LA Book Fair.
Located within the Little Tokyo Marketplace, Daiso is a Japanese chain yen store. Most items cost the equivalent of a Japanese yen ($1.50). Stop by to browse and pick up bargains.
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Daiso
3842 Sepulveda BlvdLocated within the Little Tokyo Marketplace, Daiso is a Japanese chain yen store. Most items cost the equivalent of a Japanese yen ($1.50). Stop by to browse and pick up bargains.
Also known as Woori Market, this Korean supermarket is located in the Little Tokyo shopping center and sells Korean, Japanese, and American Food. They are strict about parking so make sure to get your ticket validated.
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Little Tokyo Market Place
333 S Alameda StAlso known as Woori Market, this Korean supermarket is located in the Little Tokyo shopping center and sells Korean, Japanese, and American Food. They are strict about parking so make sure to get your ticket validated.
This buffet style Korean BBQ place is located on the 3rd floor of the Little Tokyo Mall.
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Manna Korean BBQ
333 Alameda StreetThis buffet style Korean BBQ place is located on the 3rd floor of the Little Tokyo Mall.
Eightytwo
707 E 4th PlA vintage inspired arcade bar.
This Japanese Bakery is located in the Little Tokyo Mall. They specialize in cream puffs.
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Beard Papa's
2130 Sawtelle BlvdThis Japanese Bakery is located in the Little Tokyo Mall. They specialize in cream puffs.
A full service FedEx Ship center with copy machines and computers for rent.
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FedEx Office Print & Ship Center
181 S Central AveA full service FedEx Ship center with copy machines and computers for rent.
Located in Little Tokyo, this is a tasty and speedy ramen place.
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Shin-Sen-Gumi Hakata Ramen - Little Tokyo
132 S Central AveLocated in Little Tokyo, this is a tasty and speedy ramen place.
SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa
600 W 7th StUpscale sushi perfect for a night out.
A Swedish brand selling mens and women clothing.
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Acne Studios Eastern Columbia Building
855 S BroadwayA Swedish brand selling mens and women clothing.
Stock up on understated French basics at this downtown boutique. They also have a coffee shop attached to the shop.
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A.P.C.
3517 Sunset BlvdStock up on understated French basics at this downtown boutique. They also have a coffee shop attached to the shop.
Target
735 S Figueroa StCity Target is located in one of the busiest parts of Downtown.
Nijiya Market
2130 Sawtelle BlvdStop by to stock up on Japanese groceries.
Whole Foods Market
788 S Grand AveUpscale healthy supermarket.
A fashion and design school located in the Fashion District.
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FIDM/Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising
919 S Grand AveA fashion and design school located in the Fashion District.
Reminiscent of outdoor markets and bazaars in foreign countries, Santee Alley and its vicinity has loads of street vendors and small store forefronts. DTLA really has everything from the high to low. Haggle for a good price. Walk around to take in the experience.
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Santee Alley
Santee AlleyReminiscent of outdoor markets and bazaars in foreign countries, Santee Alley and its vicinity has loads of street vendors and small store forefronts. DTLA really has everything from the high to low. Haggle for a good price. Walk around to take in the experience.
Curio Los Angeles
125 W 5th StA hotel, restaurant, bar.
The Theatre at Ace Hotel
929 S BroadwayA hotel, theatre, and bar.
Housed in a former movie theatre, this chain sells clothing for men and women.
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Urban Outfitters
1520 N Cahuenga BlvdHoused in a former movie theatre, this chain sells clothing for men and women.
The Last Bookstore
453 South Spring StreetA giant bookstore with a maze like interior.
A cute boutique in Little Tokyo that sells cute things, accessories, and clothing.
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Poketo
374 E 2nd StA cute boutique in Little Tokyo that sells cute things, accessories, and clothing.
This rooftop bar/restaurant has nice ambiance and is a great place for take in the sunset. Great place to meet up for drinks.
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Perch
448 S Hill StThis rooftop bar/restaurant has nice ambiance and is a great place for take in the sunset. Great place to meet up for drinks.
Definitely a must see if you're visiting DTLA for the first time. Grand Central Market is next to the Pershing Square Metro Station as well as Angels Flight (the tram scene from La La Land was filmed here). Open 7 days a week, 8am-10pm.
Established in 1917, Grand Central Market has food vendors representing cuisine from all over the world. Come with an appetite.
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Grand Central Market
317 S BroadwayDefinitely a must see if you're visiting DTLA for the first time. Grand Central Market is next to the Pershing Square Metro Station as well as Angels Flight (the tram scene from La La Land was filmed here). Open 7 days a week, 8am-10pm.
Established in 1917, Grand Central Market has food vendors representing cuisine from all over the world. Come with an appetite.
Los Angeles Union Station is the main railway station in Los Angeles, California, and the largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States. Subway and Amtrack trains stop here as well as buses to and from LAX.
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Union Station
800 N Alameda StLos Angeles Union Station is the main railway station in Los Angeles, California, and the largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States. Subway and Amtrack trains stop here as well as buses to and from LAX.
Olvera Street, known as “the birthplace of Los Angeles,” is a Mexican Marketplace that recreates a romantic “Old Los Angeles” with a block-long narrow, tree-shaded, brick-lined market with old structures, painted stalls, street vendors, cafes, restaurants, and gift shops. There are several historical museums to visit too. Olvera Street was created in 1930 “to preserve and represent the customs and trades of early California." It is a celebration of the rich Hispanic heritage that birthed Los Angeles. Many of the merchants on Olvera Street today are descended from the original vendors. They continue to create traditional events and celebrations free to the public!
The oldest house in Los Angeles still exists on Olvera Street and visitors can visit for free. Many of the buildings in the area created LA's first downtown.
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Olvera Street
Olvera StreetOlvera Street, known as “the birthplace of Los Angeles,” is a Mexican Marketplace that recreates a romantic “Old Los Angeles” with a block-long narrow, tree-shaded, brick-lined market with old structures, painted stalls, street vendors, cafes, restaurants, and gift shops. There are several historical museums to visit too. Olvera Street was created in 1930 “to preserve and represent the customs and trades of early California." It is a celebration of the rich Hispanic heritage that birthed Los Angeles. Many of the merchants on Olvera Street today are descended from the original vendors. They continue to create traditional events and celebrations free to the public!
The oldest house in Los Angeles still exists on Olvera Street and visitors can visit for free. Many of the buildings in the area created LA's first downtown.
One of a handful of Buddhist temples in Little Tokyo and Boyle Heights, Nishi Hongwanji is a historical remnant of the large Japanese American community that once resided in Boyle Heights. Unfortunately, after Japanese Americans were forced to vacate their homes and relocate to internment camps during WWII, the community declined as many never returned home.
Check hours before visiting.
Nishi Hongwanji Buddhist Temple
815 1st StOne of a handful of Buddhist temples in Little Tokyo and Boyle Heights, Nishi Hongwanji is a historical remnant of the large Japanese American community that once resided in Boyle Heights. Unfortunately, after Japanese Americans were forced to vacate their homes and relocate to internment camps during WWII, the community declined as many never returned home.
Check hours before visiting.
One of a handful of Buddhist temples in Little Tokyo and Boyle Heights, Koyasan is a remnant of the large Japanese American community that once resided in Boyle Heights. Unfortunately, after Japanese Americans were forced to vacate their homes and relocate to internment camps during WWII, the community declined as many never returned home.
Check visiting hours.
Koyasan Buddhist Temple
342 E 1st StOne of a handful of Buddhist temples in Little Tokyo and Boyle Heights, Koyasan is a remnant of the large Japanese American community that once resided in Boyle Heights. Unfortunately, after Japanese Americans were forced to vacate their homes and relocate to internment camps during WWII, the community declined as many never returned home.
Check visiting hours.
Little Tokyo
A guide to the Little Tokyo, Downtown Los Angeles.
A truly good bar speaks to our purist hearts: great music, solid drinks, and excellent service are what we crave. So when we discovered Wolf & Crane, which triple-checks all these boxes, we were amped. This drinks-only establishment (an anomaly in its food-driven Little Tokyo neighborhood) serves up an inventive cocktail list with a rare bent toward Japanese whisky. The staff is incredibly knowledgable about every bottle on the shelf (some holding very rare whiskies) and willing to explain the history and notes of each, sommelier-style, which makes a trip here even more enjoyable. Head here after ramen for a perfect nightcap.
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Wolf and Crane Bar
366 E 2nd StA truly good bar speaks to our purist hearts: great music, solid drinks, and excellent service are what we crave. So when we discovered Wolf & Crane, which triple-checks all these boxes, we were amped. This drinks-only establishment (an anomaly in its food-driven Little Tokyo neighborhood) serves up an inventive cocktail list with a rare bent toward Japanese whisky. The staff is incredibly knowledgable about every bottle on the shelf (some holding very rare whiskies) and willing to explain the history and notes of each, sommelier-style, which makes a trip here even more enjoyable. Head here after ramen for a perfect nightcap.
Tous Les Jours - Little Tokyo
404 E 2nd StThis French Korean bakery serves coffee and Korean French pastries.
Stop by to try quite possibly some of the best ramen in LA. They don't take reservations and long lines during popular dining times are common.
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Daikokuya
327 1st StStop by to try quite possibly some of the best ramen in LA. They don't take reservations and long lines during popular dining times are common.
Shin Sen Gumi offers speedy service and delicious customized ramen.
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Shin-Sen-Gumi Hakata Ramen - Little Tokyo
132 S Central AveShin Sen Gumi offers speedy service and delicious customized ramen.
MOCA is the only museum in Los Angeles devoted exclusively to contemporary art. There are three MOCA museums to enjoy; MOCA Grand Avenue, MOCA Pacific Design Center and The Geffen Contemporary located in Little Tokyo. The museum’s focus is on challenging works of art created since 1940. Matthew Barney and Mike Kelley were given shows here while the ground breaking street art exhibit “Art In The Streets” drawing large crowds of people to The Geffen was probably one of the most popular exhibits in recent times. There is also free admission every Thursday evening from 5:00pm – 8:00pm.
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The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA
152 N Central AveMOCA is the only museum in Los Angeles devoted exclusively to contemporary art. There are three MOCA museums to enjoy; MOCA Grand Avenue, MOCA Pacific Design Center and The Geffen Contemporary located in Little Tokyo. The museum’s focus is on challenging works of art created since 1940. Matthew Barney and Mike Kelley were given shows here while the ground breaking street art exhibit “Art In The Streets” drawing large crowds of people to The Geffen was probably one of the most popular exhibits in recent times. There is also free admission every Thursday evening from 5:00pm – 8:00pm.
The Japanese Village Plaza is Little Tokyo’s most popular destination for dining, shopping and exploring. Places like Hama (sushi), Shabu Shabu House, Mikawaya (mochi) and Cafe Dulce (try the bacon donut holes and lattes!) are all located inside the village. Find unique fashion at Hob Nob or Pop Killer and stop by Sanrio for an extra does of cuteness if you have kids or am just a Hello Kitty Fan.
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Japanilainen kylä Plaza
335 E 2nd StThe Japanese Village Plaza is Little Tokyo’s most popular destination for dining, shopping and exploring. Places like Hama (sushi), Shabu Shabu House, Mikawaya (mochi) and Cafe Dulce (try the bacon donut holes and lattes!) are all located inside the village. Find unique fashion at Hob Nob or Pop Killer and stop by Sanrio for an extra does of cuteness if you have kids or am just a Hello Kitty Fan.
Sing your heart out and record your masterpiece too at Max Karaoke! Rent out a private (it’s not pricey) and grab a few of your closes friends, BYOB is just a $1 charge AND you can bring your own food. There’s also a karaoke happy hour 1:00pm – 8:00pm.
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Max Karaoke Studio
333 S Alameda StSing your heart out and record your masterpiece too at Max Karaoke! Rent out a private (it’s not pricey) and grab a few of your closes friends, BYOB is just a $1 charge AND you can bring your own food. There’s also a karaoke happy hour 1:00pm – 8:00pm.
Interested in viewing a beautiful example of Japanese architecture and landscaping? Pay a visit to The Higashi Hongashi Temple located on East 3rd Street in Little Tokyo. The temple promotes the teachings of Jodo Shinshu and is also a popular events space.
Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple
505 E 3rd StInterested in viewing a beautiful example of Japanese architecture and landscaping? Pay a visit to The Higashi Hongashi Temple located on East 3rd Street in Little Tokyo. The temple promotes the teachings of Jodo Shinshu and is also a popular events space.
Shojin gives vegans, vegetarians and general sushi lovers a unique take on utilizing vegetables and special grains in replacement of fish. The Japanese vegan and macrobiotic menu of fish-less sushi rolls include ingredients like barbecue seitan, enoki mushroom, lotus root and burdock. With a focus on “organic and natural” cuisine Shojin’s inventive interpretations are a delight to omnivore and carnivores alike. Instead of wheat-based faux meats, the restaurant chooses the healthier option of utilizing tofu and tempeh as meat substitutions. Highlights include the spicy “tuna” on crispy rice made with spicy tofu, dynamite roll and a buttery eggplant dish on a asparagus carrot roll.
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Shojin
12406 W Washington BlvdShojin gives vegans, vegetarians and general sushi lovers a unique take on utilizing vegetables and special grains in replacement of fish. The Japanese vegan and macrobiotic menu of fish-less sushi rolls include ingredients like barbecue seitan, enoki mushroom, lotus root and burdock. With a focus on “organic and natural” cuisine Shojin’s inventive interpretations are a delight to omnivore and carnivores alike. Instead of wheat-based faux meats, the restaurant chooses the healthier option of utilizing tofu and tempeh as meat substitutions. Highlights include the spicy “tuna” on crispy rice made with spicy tofu, dynamite roll and a buttery eggplant dish on a asparagus carrot roll.
Bowl like a rock star at XLanes LA, this state of the art bowling alley is not your regular bowling joint it hosts a dining spot, bar, VIP bowling room and has LED lit lanes. If thats not enough to impress, theres also an arcade with over 80 games, pool hall and Karaoke rooms.
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XLanes
333 Alameda StBowl like a rock star at XLanes LA, this state of the art bowling alley is not your regular bowling joint it hosts a dining spot, bar, VIP bowling room and has LED lit lanes. If thats not enough to impress, theres also an arcade with over 80 games, pool hall and Karaoke rooms.
What was once a senior community center focused on educating the elderly on technology is now a learning center for all ages! Come to take arts & crafts lessons, take a yoga or tai chi class, learn to speak another language like Japanese! or keep your mind active by learning mahjong, sewing, flute playing and other activities. Like they say at the lounge “We’re never too old to learn something new!”
Far East Lounge
353 E 1st StWhat was once a senior community center focused on educating the elderly on technology is now a learning center for all ages! Come to take arts & crafts lessons, take a yoga or tai chi class, learn to speak another language like Japanese! or keep your mind active by learning mahjong, sewing, flute playing and other activities. Like they say at the lounge “We’re never too old to learn something new!”
If you find yourself in Little Tokyo without a plan or just plain lost, stop into the Koban Center on the corner of 1st Street. Known for being Little Tokyo’s information and community hub the Koban is a great spot to learn about local attractions, current events, festivals, locating a hotel, restaurant recommendations and more. When availble visitors can also sign up for a walking tour.
Little Tokyo Koban and Visitor's Center
307 E 1st StIf you find yourself in Little Tokyo without a plan or just plain lost, stop into the Koban Center on the corner of 1st Street. Known for being Little Tokyo’s information and community hub the Koban is a great spot to learn about local attractions, current events, festivals, locating a hotel, restaurant recommendations and more. When availble visitors can also sign up for a walking tour.
The Goldline train stops at the intersection of Alameda and 1st St. Get off here to walk to the Arts District, Geffen Contemporary, or Little Toyko.
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Little Tokyo / Arts District station
The Goldline train stops at the intersection of Alameda and 1st St. Get off here to walk to the Arts District, Geffen Contemporary, or Little Toyko.
Located in Little Tokyo this shabu shabu joint never ceases to be crowded. Folks flock here for the freshly sliced cuts of tender red meat, a perfect ponzu sauce and a chance to learn the art of simplicity that is Japanese Shabu Shabu. You get the option of 10 pieces or 15 pieces of sliced meat and your meal comes with raw veggies to cook, noodles to boil and a bowl of steamed rice. Once the soup is present, simply toss your veggies into the pot and dip your beef into the boiling soup. Lightly dip your cooked items in the ponzu sauce and consume with rice. Only go for dinner, at lunch time they only serve curry. No cell phone use while eating per a paper sign on the wall and it’s cash only.
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Shabu-Shabu House
127 Japanese Village Plaza MallLocated in Little Tokyo this shabu shabu joint never ceases to be crowded. Folks flock here for the freshly sliced cuts of tender red meat, a perfect ponzu sauce and a chance to learn the art of simplicity that is Japanese Shabu Shabu. You get the option of 10 pieces or 15 pieces of sliced meat and your meal comes with raw veggies to cook, noodles to boil and a bowl of steamed rice. Once the soup is present, simply toss your veggies into the pot and dip your beef into the boiling soup. Lightly dip your cooked items in the ponzu sauce and consume with rice. Only go for dinner, at lunch time they only serve curry. No cell phone use while eating per a paper sign on the wall and it’s cash only.
Immerse yourself in all things Japanese American at The Japanese American National Museum the only U.S. museum dedicated to sharing the experiences of Americans of Japanese descent and the part they play as part of U.S. history. Stop by on a free day every Thursday from 5:00pm – 8:00pm and all day every third Thursday of the month.
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Japanilais-amerikkalainen kansallismuseo
100 N Central AveImmerse yourself in all things Japanese American at The Japanese American National Museum the only U.S. museum dedicated to sharing the experiences of Americans of Japanese descent and the part they play as part of U.S. history. Stop by on a free day every Thursday from 5:00pm – 8:00pm and all day every third Thursday of the month.
Fugetsu-Do Mochi is the longest running mochi business in Little Tokyo. Family operated since 1903 they are famous for their variety of hand made Japanese confections from small sweet cakes to chocolate filled mochi. If you like the ice cream filled variety instead, stop by Mikawaya, the originator of Mochi Ice Cream. Made fresh, small balls of ice cream are wrapped in the sweet sticky rice dough with traditional flavors like green tea and vanilla to non traditional flavors like mint chip and guava.
Fugetsu-Do
315 E 1st StFugetsu-Do Mochi is the longest running mochi business in Little Tokyo. Family operated since 1903 they are famous for their variety of hand made Japanese confections from small sweet cakes to chocolate filled mochi. If you like the ice cream filled variety instead, stop by Mikawaya, the originator of Mochi Ice Cream. Made fresh, small balls of ice cream are wrapped in the sweet sticky rice dough with traditional flavors like green tea and vanilla to non traditional flavors like mint chip and guava.
Open to the public and free all year round, the James Irvine Japanese Garden located in the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center (JACCC) features a tranquil garden with a waterfall and 170 ft. stream, as well as blooming trees, flowers, handcrafted cedar bridges, a selection of stone lanterns and a hand washing fountain. The garden is designed to reflect the Zen tradition of the famous gardens of Kyoto. Visit the JACCC website for more information about viewing and hours.
James Irvine Garden
244 San Pedro StOpen to the public and free all year round, the James Irvine Japanese Garden located in the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center (JACCC) features a tranquil garden with a waterfall and 170 ft. stream, as well as blooming trees, flowers, handcrafted cedar bridges, a selection of stone lanterns and a hand washing fountain. The garden is designed to reflect the Zen tradition of the famous gardens of Kyoto. Visit the JACCC website for more information about viewing and hours.
Pinkberry is a frozen yogurt chain with locations throughout the Southern CA area.
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Pinkberry
2829 Hyperion AvePinkberry is a frozen yogurt chain with locations throughout the Southern CA area.