The LA Little Tokyo to Olvera Street Smartphone Walking Tour provides a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and culture of Los Angeles. Guests embark on a 99-minute exploration, guided by a location-aware app that brings to life the stories behind significant landmarks. From the Chiune Sugihara statue to the iconic Cielito Lindo taquito stand, this tour offers an immersive experience that combines historical narratives with insights into the vibrant culinary traditions of the area. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this tour promises to captivate and enlighten.
Key Points
- Smartphone-guided walking tour covering historic areas of Los Angeles, including Little Tokyo and Olvera Street, available from December 2023 to March 2026.
- Tour duration of 99 minutes, costing $7.50 per person, and beginning at the Chiune Sugihara statue and ending at the Cielito Lindo taquito stand.
- Focus on Sugihara’s actions during WWII and the culinary traditions of the area, with a visit to the bustling Farmer’s Market.
- Offered in a private format, allowing for personalized experiences, and accessible for wheelchair users and stroller-friendly.
- Includes step-by-step guidance, historical insights, and an opportunity to learn about hand-rolling tortillas and frying taquitos at the Cielito Lindo stand.
Tour Overview
What’s the LA Little Tokyo to Olvera St Smartphone Walking Tour?
It’s a location-aware app-guided walking tour that takes participants through historic areas of Los Angeles, including Little Tokyo and Olvera Street. Available from December 2023 to March 2026, this 99-minute self-guided tour costs $7.50 per person.
The tour begins at the Chiune Sugihara statue and ends at the renowned Cielito Lindo taquito stand. Along the way, you will learn about Sugihara’s heroic actions during WWII and explore the culinary traditions of the area.
The tour is wheelchair/stroller accessible and welcoming of service animals.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Los Angeles.
Meeting and End Points
The meeting point for the LA Little Tokyo to Olvera St Smartphone Walking Tour is the Statue of Chiune Sugihara, located at 192 S Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA.
This is where the tour begins, with an introduction to Chiune Sugihara’s role in saving lives during World War II.
After exploring the historic areas of LA, including Olvera Street, the tour ends at Cielito Lindo, a notable taquito stand on E 23 Olvera St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA.
Throughout the tour, you will receive step-by-step guidance and learn about the area’s rich history and culinary traditions.
Starting Story
As visitors approach the Statue of Chiune Sugihara, the tour’s starting point, they’ll learn about the remarkable story of this Japanese diplomat who issued thousands of visas to Jewish refugees during World War II, enabling them to flee the Nazis and find safe haven.
Through this introduction, the tour sets the stage for exploring the historic areas of LA, including the vibrant Olvera Street.
This starting story provides important context, inspiring participants to engage with the guided experience and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Guided Experience
After learning about Chiune Sugihara’s inspiring story, the guided experience takes participants on a leisurely stroll through the historic neighborhoods of Los Angeles.
With step-by-step instructions, the tour escorts visitors past iconic landmarks, including:
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The Japanese American National Museum, offering insights into the community’s rich history.
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The bustling Farmer’s Market, where the sights, sounds, and aromas of diverse cuisines create a vibrant atmosphere.
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The iconic Olvera Street, a Mexican marketplace brimming with colorful shops, lively music, and the mouthwatering scent of traditional dishes.
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The tour culminates at the renowned Cielito Lindo, where participants can savor the history and flavors of a beloved local taquito stand.
Culinary Insight
At the culmination of the tour, visitors can savor the rich history and flavors of a beloved local taquito stand, Cielito Lindo. This iconic eatery has been serving up its signature taquitos since 1934, using a time-honored recipe passed down through generations. Guests will learn about the careful preparation process, from hand-rolling the tortillas to frying the taquitos to perfection. As they indulge in the crispy, golden treats, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the restaurant’s enduring legacy and the vibrant culinary traditions of Olvera Street.
| Signature Dishes | History | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Taquitos | Established in 1934 | Hand-rolled tortillas |
| Tacos | Multi-generational family business | Fried to crispy perfection |
| Guacamole | Authentic Mexican recipes | Fresh, high-quality ingredients |
| Horchata | Reflects the neighborhood’s heritage | Careful attention to detail |
| Churros | Beloved by locals and visitors alike | Served hot and freshly made |
Accessibility and Participation
The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly, ensuring that visitors of all abilities can fully participate in the experience. Service animals are also welcome.
Plus, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easily accessible to a wide range of travelers.
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The tour is designed for most travelers to participate, catering to a diverse audience.
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The walking route is well-paced, with ample opportunities for breaks and rest.
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The tour’s private nature allows for a personalized experience tailored to your group’s needs and preferences.
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Throughout the tour, the guide remains attentive to the accessibility requirements of all participants.
Cancellation Policy and Booking Confirmation
Travelers can cancel their booking for the LA Little Tokyo to Olvera St Smartphone Walking Tour at any time up to 24 hours before the experience begins (in the local time zone). This free cancellation policy allows for maximum flexibility and peace of mind. Booking confirmation is received at the time of reservation, providing all the necessary details for a smooth tour experience.
| Cancellation Deadline | Refund |
|---|---|
| 24+ hours in advance | 100% |
| Less than 24 hours | No refund |
The tour operator values customer satisfaction and strives to accommodate any changes or unexpected circumstances.
Reviews
The LA Little Tokyo to Olvera St Smartphone Walking Tour has received a glowing 5.0 rating based on a single review.
The reviewer praised the tour for several reasons:
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Educational value, providing deeper insights into the history and culture of the area.
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Enjoyable experience, with the guided experience and interactive features keeping the tour engaging.
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Convenient accessibility, making it accessible for various travelers, including those using wheelchairs or strollers.
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The reviewer’s enthusiastic recommendation suggests this tour offers a compelling and immersive way to explore the rich heritage of LA’s historic neighborhoods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase the Tour On-Site or Do I Need to Book in Advance?
The tour can be booked in advance online, but it’s not possible to purchase the tour on-site. Advance booking is recommended to secure your spot and ensure you have the tour app downloaded before the experience begins.
Is There a Downloadable App or Do I Need to Access the Tour Through a Website?
The tour is accessed through a downloadable smartphone app, not a website. Guests will need to download the app before the tour begins to follow the location-based guidance and content throughout the experience.
How Detailed Are the Audio/Visual Elements of the Guided Experience?
The guided experience provides detailed audio and visual content. Users can expect step-by-step narration, informative pop-ups, and multimedia elements that bring the historical sites and local culture to life throughout the tour.
Are There Any Additional Costs Beyond the Tour Price?
The tour price covers the guided walking experience. There are no additional costs such as admission fees or food purchases. Participants only need to pay the tour price and can expect an engaging and informative walking tour.
Can I Modify or Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?
Yes, you can usually customize the tour itinerary to fit your interests. The tour provider may allow you to modify the stops or highlight areas that align with your preferences, for an additional fee.
Sum Up
The LA Little Tokyo to Olvera Street Smartphone Walking Tour offers an engaging exploration of historic Los Angeles. Participants embark on a 99-minute journey, learning about Sugihara’s WWII legacy and discovering the vibrant culinary traditions of the area. Priced at $7.50 per person, this tour combines enriching narratives and insights, providing a memorable and educational experience for visitors.
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