JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles is a Japanese cultural destination in the heart of Hollywood reflecting the best of Japan through its spaces and diverse programs. An innovative project conceived by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, JAPAN HOUSE currently consists of three locations around the world – London, Los Angeles, and Sao Paulo. It's aim is to showcase and share the intricacies of Japanese attractions, policies and culture with the international community. This is illustrated through art, design, gastronomy, innovation, technology and more.

Occupying two floors at the popular Hollywood & Highland entertainment complex, the destination brings exhibitions, unique events, and culinary programs including pop-up dining experiences. Admission to JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles is complimentary.

Yuko Kaifu, President of JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles shared more about this gallery as well as their upcoming exhibit, "The Art of the Ramen Bowl."

“The Art of the Ramen Bowl” Exhibit, celebrates the world’s most popular Japanese food, the complimentary exhibit – seen for the first time outside of Japan – is on display now through July 5, 2022. The exhibit spotlights imaginative porcelain ramen bowls (donburi) and spoons (renge) designed by 30 world-renowned artists who share a love for ramen. The exhibition includes a giant, Instagram-worthy ramen bowl by known Japanese plastic food sample manufacturer Iwasaki Mokei, and an introduction to the dish itself!

A common street food brought to Japan from China in the mid-1800s, ramen has evolved to become one of their most beloved dishes, and a complex culinary artform. This ubiquitous wheat noodle dish has a diversity of flavors, ingredients, and styles of ramen and ramen bowls available in Japan. The perfect bowl can vary by region, flavor profile, as well as the quality of the bowls - which enhances the experience.

These 30 world-renowned artists featured, share a love of ramen. Some of Japan’s most significant contemporary artists: Akira Minagawa, Hisashi Tenmyouya, Keiichi Tanaami, Tabaimo, Tadanori Yokoo, and Taku Satoh – contributed pieces to the exhibit, artfully presenting how the Japanese uniquely approach decoration, as well as how it serves as art.

Mino has served as the epicenter for Japanese ceramics for more than 500 years. Additionally, plastic food sample manufacturer Iwasaki Mokei, is one of the most well-known plastic food manufacturers in Japan. Iwasaki Mokei and Mino are vital aspects to the history and evolution of the art of ramen. It was vital to include them and introduce the community to their contributions to the noodle dish.