Sawtelle Boulevard's Japantown in Los Angeles

The four blocks on Sawtelle Boulevard between Olympic Boulevard and Missouri Avenue are filled with predominantly Japanese specialty stores, restaurants, and plant nurseries. A trip here makes for an interesting, out-of-the-ordinary jaunt from either Westwood or Santa Monica.

In the 1920s, after a wave of Japanese immigrants arrived in L.A., Sawtelle began to resemble an authentic Japanese main street rather than a touristy Little Tokyo. Although most establishments remain Japanese, the area also encompasses Chinese, Taiwanese, and Malaysian businesses.

To reach Sawtelle from Westwood, head south on Westwood Boulevard, turn right on Santa Monica Boulevard, and take a left on Sawtelle. There's plenty of metered street parking, plus minimall lots near Olympic Boulevard.