Japanese American Museum of San Jose

The Japanese American Museum of San Jose is a museum in Japantown that documents the history of Japanese people who lived in this city and surrounding area. The exhibitions show photographs, personal objects, and written documents from families who spent multiple generations in this region.

The museum was founded to preserve the stories of Japanese people who came to the region starting in the early 1900s. It also documents the difficult periods these families endured including the years when they were forced to leave their homes and businesses.

The museum shows how Japanese Americans lived in this region and the role they played in the local community. You see objects and photographs that document everyday life, work, and family experiences of these people.

The museum is located in an accessible area of Japantown where you can park and walk to visit it. The spaces are manageable so you can see everything in an hour or two without rushing.

The museum keeps a collection of handwritten letters and personal notes from families that often reveal very intimate details about daily life. These documents allow visitors to step directly into people's thoughts and feelings without any filter or intermediary.

Location: San Jose

Opening Hours: Monday-Wednesday off; Thursday-Sunday 12:00-16:00

Phone: +14082943138

Website: https://jamsj.org

GPS coordinates: 37.34750,-121.89371

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:27