Folk And Traditional Arts

Scattered like stars across the night sky are over 20,000 Pacific Islands in Oceania, with a human history rich in ritual, narrative tradition, innovation, and art. Our mission is to incorporate the diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands, with a focus on Micronesia, into a permanent collection, educational programs, rotating exhibits, and living arts.

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Adults – $5, Seniors and Students – $3, Members and Children under 12 – Free

This exhibit is our land acknowledgment practiced in a ceremony between Indigenous artists (Tongva & Pasifika) of the salt water. Humans have the responsibility and obligation to take care of and be part of the whole of nature. “It’s important for people to know that these are not gestural acts but a tradition of Indigenous communities sharing and extending respect, honor, and spirit.” – Cindi Alvitre, Tongva guest curator and artist.

Adults – $5, Seniors and Students – $3, Members and Children under 12 – Free

A narration of Chinese immigration to the U.S. with an emphasis on community settlement in Los Angeles. The exhibition is outlined into four distinct time periods, each period defined by a vital immigration law and event, accompanied by a brief description and a short personal story.

This is a recreation of a store housed in the Garnier Building in the 1890s. The Sun Wing Wo store opened in 1891 and remained in this building until 1948. The store was a multi-purpose space that showed how self-sufficient the Chinese were and had to be due to racism and discrimination while also being responsive to the needs of their community. Even though the store predominantly served the Chinese, people from every facet of society also came to purchase Chinese merchandise.

Curated by scholars of Chinese history and culture from the Shanghai Museum, this incredible collection portrays the evolution of Chinese art and culture. Journey back through 5000 years of Chinese history and follow the efflorescence of arts throughout one of the world’s oldest living civilizations.

Adults – $18, Seniors and Students – $15, Members and Children under 12 – Free

Experience exquisite masterpieces and dynamic objects from the vast and diverse Pacific Islands in this special exhibition. Spanning the geographic region collectively referred to as Oceania, this comprehensive exhibition highlights masterworks from the three cultural regions of Micronesia, Melanesia, and Polynesia. The focus is on New Guinea, the land of the headhunter, and the rich artistic traditions infused into daily and ritual life.

Adults – $18, Seniors and Students – $15, Members and Children under 12 – Free

Experience a restored home and agricultural compound from 18th-century Japan that provides a glimpse into rural life 300 years ago. Built around 1700, this 3,000-square-foot residence was the center of village life in Marugame, Japan.

Check the website for ticket prices and advance reservations, which are required.

Feed our playful koi, stroll the winding pathways, view the Tea House, or reflect at the Zen Garden. Each season unfolds with colorful blossoms, exciting cultural celebrations, and intriguing exhibits.

No entry is allowed without a reservation; tickets are available on the website.

Tuesdays – Fridays, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Amid the San Fernando Valley lies an oasis – a 6.5-acre garden featuring three gardens in one. First, the Japanese Garden has a dry Zen meditation garden containing Tortoise Island, a three-buddha arrangement of stones, and a wisteria arbor at the end of the Plover Path. Next along the path is an expansive Chisen or “wet-strolling” garden with waterfalls, lakes and streams, abundant greenery, and stone lanterns, which were hand-carved by artisans in Japan. At the end of this path is the Shoin Building, which has an authentic tatami-mat teahouse and an adjacent tea garden.

Reservation is required; tickets are available on the website.