The Japanese American Museum of San Jose (JAMsj) is a cultural institution located in San Jose, California. Founded with the purpose of preserving and sharing the history and experiences of Japanese Americans in the United States, JAMsj offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Filled with exhibits that showcase the rich cultural heritage, stories, and contributions of the Japanese American community, the museum provides a comprehensive educational platform. From learning about the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II to exploring the art, traditions, and achievements of this vibrant community, JAMsj offers a diverse range of exhibits that cater to all ages and interests. The museum also organizes events, lectures, and programs that further promote the understanding and appreciation of Japanese American history and culture. JAMsj is a significant institution that serves as an important resource for both the local community and visitors from around the world.
Amenities and More
- Toilets
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Good for kids
- Restaurant
Reviews
Clean and nearby JapanTown. The ticket menu says “Military Family Members Free” but should say “Active Duty Military: Free” since only the service member is admitted free, not their family members. Lost a star because of this.
Aside from that, the museum is clean, items well described, and well organized. Excellent barracks display and farm equipment display. Heavy emphasis on FDR’s unconstitutional internment of US citizens following the “sneak” attack on Pearl Harbor.
They showed case studies of three honorable US citizens of Japanese descent who filed lawsuits but lost their court cases because the FBI hid crucial evidence that they exhibited zero risk to the security of country prior to their internment. Politicians and the media should be doing all they can to prevent any U.S. citizen from being victims of this type of government conduct today.
I had the wonderful opportunity to come to the museum as a school chaperone. I have been to the Anne Frank house in Amsterdam, but I didn't realize we had a local gem. I would put this on a list of "must visits" for anyone wanting to delve into WW2 history. We were able to see a replica of an internment camp home with real items in it. The docents were wonderful with the children. I think my husband was very curious and wants to make a return visit with us. Of course, a meal at a nearby local Japanese restaurant would make the trip complete.
This museum is located in Japantown San Mateo. There’s street parking and they have a small parking lot. Tickets are $8 for adults and you are given a brochure and a map. Although the museum is small, it contains a lot of information and artifacts and explains the history of Japanese American in America. In the back, they have farm equipments and household items. It’s a very interesting and informative museum, check it out if you’re near Japan town!
Definitely worth the visit. The back area is built to resemble one of the barracks in an interment camp, and some of the tools and paraphernalia of the time. One is able to get close enough for a good view, and it was a refreshing surprise to be able to go into the recreation of a portion of the barracks, it felt like I was there.
This is not a huge museum, but there is plenty to see and learn about. The gentleman at the front desk was kind and friendly. He shared personal and relevant stories of his father and gave us a brief overview of what the museum had to offer. There is an outdoor area too! My husband and I really enjoyed this museum.
The museum was small but pack full of very relevant and very sobering memories, memorabilia and experiences. The presenter was amazing and knowing she was in the internment camps as a kid and her stories were so valuable and brings reality to heart!
Great museum that covers the history of the San Jose JapanTown and the experiences of Japanese Americans during WWII. Lots of historic documents, pics and a reproduction of a room from a concentration camp. They also sell works from local artists and the docents are all very friendly. We only spent an hour here but it was very nice
Chanced upon this community gem while heading to Nijiya Market: well worth the side trip!
A small museum that details the history of:
1. Japanese Americans in San Jose,
2. the internment of Japanese Americans and
3. the legacy of the 442nd BCT (most decorated US military unit ever) and other Japanese American veterans.
A concise place to spend ~30min to learn more about what makes America great as well as the country's mistakes, whether you're a family with children beating the heat, or just a college student in the area.
Location
535 N 5th St, San Jose, CA 95112, United States
Hours
- Monday Close
- Tuesday Close
-
Wednesday
12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
- Thursday Close
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Friday
12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
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Saturday
12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
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Sunday
12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
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