The Beauty of Other Cultures: Little Tokyo Japanese New Year Celebration

Living in Los Angeles is such a privilege because of the vast array of different cultures that have settled in and around the city. Instead of participating in typical alcohol fueled revelry, I decided to spend New Years Eve rather casually with plans for being up early to catch the sunrise in Runyon Canyon and to experience for the first time a Japanese New Year Celebration.

I'm glad I did.

This is a short video I filmed of a traditional drum performance and I have posted it in three different formats to accommodate different platforms.

Los Angeles is full of cultural bubbles. Unfortunately for many people, it is very easy to become stagnant within the bubble you happen to be most comfortable in, which leads to many thousands of people not knowing what lies beyond the borders of their familiar stomping grounds. Each culture has so much to offer and there is so much to be learned. Granted, Los Angeles is unique in this way, but where ever you are in the world, making an effort to experience other cultures only serves to enhance your understanding and appreciation for people who are different from you.


Many people simply refuse to appreciate other cultures. Others claim to be well versed but rarely make an effort to further their knowledge beyond a dining experience or a vacation. I, on the other hand, am so grateful to have a cultural microcosm to call home.

If you are unable to see the video, please email gratefulbrand@gmail.com and I will send it to you directly.