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.

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