Japantown
Mariani Square is conveniently located in Japantown, also known as Nihonmachi in Japanese, is a compact historic enclave in San Jose. While the local business district just north of Downtown San Jose is small (bounded by First Street to the west, 8th Street to the east, Empire Street to the south, and Taylor Street on the northside), it's one of the most unique and interesting neighborhoods in San Jose / Silicon Valley for its mix of history and unique Japanese culture. 

San Jose’s Japantown is one of only three remaining historic Japanese communities left throughout the United States. It is known for its eclectic dining serving regional and local Japanese cuisine.  On the busy streets, chic clothing and Japanese gift shops mix with hip art galleries and karaoke bars. The Japanese American Museum highlights stories of immigration and WWII internment, while peace is found in the gardens of the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin.

Visit the Japanese Temple and Garden
Stroll the grounds of the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin to see authentic Japanese temple architecture and garden design.

Get Your Food Fix at Japantown's Local Restaurants
Local favorites Gombai, Minato, Okayama, Kazoo, and Sushi Maru offer a mix of traditional and unpretentious, homestyle Japanese food at affordable prices.

Eat Traditional Japanese Sweets
The family-owned Shuei-Do Manju Shop makes traditional Japanese confections, manju, and mochi--be ready to wait in line on the weekends and during local festivals. For Hawaiian style shave ice, sweet and savory crepes, check out Banane Crepe.

Get Fresh and Natural Japanese Groceries
Pick up handmade artisan tofu from the San Jose Tofu Company and Japanese groceries (many organic) at Nijiya Market. On Sundays (8:30 am to noon), check out the Japantown Farmer's Market (enter on Jackson St. between 6th and 7th Streets). A few vendors specialize in Asian produce. 

Shop for Japanese Ceramics and Gifts 
Local shop Nichi Bei Bussan features a wide selection of traditional and unique Japanese ceramics, housewares, and gifts.

Get a Taste of Hawaii
Many of California's Japanese American families have strong ties to Hawaii, as the Pacific islands were the first port of entry for many of them to the United States. Nikkei Traditions, Hukilau restaurant, and Banana Crepe all feature Hawaiian inspired gifts, food, and snacks. Ukelele Source sells handcrafted ukuleles from Hawaii and can help you arrange lessons if you are interested in learning this Hawaiian art.

Peruse the Modern Shops and Art Galleries
A new generation of hip shops and art galleries have been welcomed into Japantown, including Cukui Clothing & Art Gallery and Empire 7 Gallery.  Bring your four-legged friends into Biscuits, a modern pet supply store, and boutique. Check out the quirky and colorful pet outfits, including dog kimonos.

Have a Coffee at famous Roy's Station
Stop by ​Roy's Station Coffee and Tea, a family-owned coffee shop built-in community elder Roy Murotsune's pre-WWII Mobil gas station. The vintage modern coffee shop features roasted Verve Coffee and teas from Satori and Teance. 

Have a Drink at Local Dive Bars 
Locals and downtown college students flock to 7 Bamboo, one of the Bay Area's best karaoke bars, and Jack's Bar to watch sports and grab daily Happy Hour specials.