MEET LITTLE TOKYO: Irene Tsukado-Simonian, Owner of Bunkado

Brightly, patterned origami paper, maneki neko figures, and other unique Japanese goods you can’t seem to find anywhere else line the aisles of Bunkado, a treasured gift shop in the historic district of Little Tokyo. Founded in 1946 by Suye and Tokio Ueyama after returning to Los Angeles from internment, Bunkado opened at the exact location of the first Japanese business in Los Angeles (Kame Restaurant). A few generations later, Bunkado is now owned by their niece, Irene Tsukado-Simonian, who has found fulfillment in continuing the legacy of her family’s store, embracing Bunkado’s rich arts and cultural foundation, honoring Little Tokyo’s history and sharing it with generations to come.

published on March 1, 2019