Little Tokyo Taiko Gathering

Hi Everyone,

Join us for a day trip to Little Tokyo and the Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles! We'll explore Little Tokyo, enjoy the annual Little Tokyo Taiko Gathering, then walk over to the Arts District for an afternoon of street art, galleries, and photography.

We'll take Metrolink from Irvine to LA Union Station, hop on the Metro, and spend the day exploring one of LA's most vibrant neighborhoods. Our destination is the annual Little Tokyo Taiko Gathering, featuring performances by taiko drumming groups from across Southern California.

In addition to the performances, Little Tokyo offers great food, unique shops, Japanese culture, people watching, and plenty of photography opportunities. Feel free to explore with the group or wander on your own and meet back later.

Whether you're interested in photography, Japanese culture, urban exploration, or simply looking for a fun day out, come join us!

Lunch will be in Little Tokyo. There are numerous restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and dessert shops in the area. We'll decide as a group depending on attendance and preferences.

We will return to Union Station in time for the last convenient Metrolink train back to Orange County.

More information about the Taiko Gathering: https://www.japanese-city.com/calendar/events/index.php?eID=27476

Where to meet
We will meet at Irvine Station.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/roKgzKeyuxeQqrT26

Parking
The station offers free parking.
Park in the parking structure next to the station.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/5wcvCtcLWVRHPziJ7

Metrolink
Download the Metrolink app on your phone and get the ticket in the app.
https://metrolinktrains.com/ticketsOverview/where-to-buy/mobile-app/
Ticket dispenser is also available at the station.
Weekend Pass: $10 for unlimited rides all day. This weekend ticket is only available on the day of the trip.

The train is scheduled to leave at 9:21 AM. Please arrive early. Boarding can complete quickly and the train will not wait for late arrivals.

If you're taking the train from different stations (Oceanside, San Clemente Pier, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo, Tustin, Santa Ana, Orange, Anaheim, Fullerton, etc.) you should figure out the parking and the train schedule. We're taking train# OC1661.
Train Schedules | Metrolink

Metro A Line
TAP cards can be added directly to Apple Wallet or Android Wallet.
How To Add Tap Card To Apple Wallet (Full 2025 Guide)
Add Virtual TAP Card (Android)
There are ticket dispensers at Union Station, if you prefer getting a ticket there.
The fare is $1.75 with TAP card.

Tentative Plan (We'll adjust depending on how things actually go)
9:00 — Meet at the Irvine station
9:21 — Take a Metrolink to LA Union Station
10:34 — Arrive at LA Union Station & take Metro A Line
11:00 — Arrive at Little Tokyo/Arts District. Enjoy taiko drum performance, exhibitions at Japanese American cultural center.
1:00 — Lunch (TBD)
2:00 — Explore the Arts District (including Hauser & Wirth, murals, and nearby streets)
3:40 — Take Metro A line back to Union Station
4:27 — Hop on a Metrolink Train (#OC1668, last one to OC)
5:36 — Arrive at Irvine Station

Attire and Things to Bring
We will walk a bit (3+ miles). Wear comfortable shoes.
Bring or wear sun protection.
Bringing water is always a good idea.
Bring a power bank if you think you'll need it.

Release of Liability
Photography and all outings are rewarding and pleasant activities, but there are common dangers you should be aware of including personal injuries and property damages. By signing up for this event, you assume the risks of the event and agree to release the organization, the organizer, and other participants from claims for any and all injuries or other losses sustained during this event. Stay safe!