Honestly, when you\u2019re traveling, there are some places where getting lost is part of the fun. Costa Mesa proves it: being in the city is an opportunity to find the unexpected. You never know what\u2019s around the next corner, and your camera roll looks like you\u2019ve put stamps on your passport. Think vibrant visuals, unexpected experiences, and even immersion. It\u2019s like stepping into an art installation you can live in, or at least delve into for a weekend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
California has always been a crossroads of cultures. Whether it\u2019s places like Little Tokyo or Little Ethiopia in Los Angeles, generations of immigrants all working, living, and dreaming together have shaped the state. Costa Mesa is proud that different cultures are wound into the city\u2019s DNA. One of the striking \u201cinstallations\u201d here is the presence of Japan: taiko drums against blue California skies, calligraphy next to street murals, and surf shops next to yakitori. We invite you to get lost experiencing the Japanese influence in Costa Mesa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ll find that Costa Mesa\u2019s easy to reach and impossible to forget. Just fly into John Wayne Airport<\/a> (SNA) or drive to Orange County, between Los Angeles to the north and San Diego to the south. The streets are postcard-ready, lined with palm trees, neon, and endless possibilities to explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Get Lost in the Sights, Sounds, and Flavors of Japan<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n We\u2019d be remiss if we didn\u2019t include the OC Japan Fair<\/a>. The fair invites people to celebrate and experience Japan by way of Southern California. While there\u2019s endless incredible food options (seriously, plan to arrive hungry to try everything you\u2019re interested in), that\u2019s only the most obvious draw. Traditions, like tuna cutting and handmade kimonos, are alongside more modern fun like cosplay and J-rock concerts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n