A 123-year-old Japanese sweets shop in Los Angeles finally gets the spotlight it deserves
Fugetsu-Do, a 123-year-old Japanese sweets shop in Los Angeles, stands as a testament to resilience and cultural continuity in the face of adversity. Nestled in Little Tokyo, the shop is more than just a purveyor of mochi and manju; it is a vibrant symbol of Japanese-American heritage and community endurance. The Kito family, who founded and continue to run the shop, have navigated the tumultuous waters of history, from surviving World War II internment to reclaiming their place in a rapidly evolving cityscape.
The story of Fugetsu-Do is one of perseverance and hope, demonstrating how a small family business can become a cornerstone of cultural identity and community pride. Despite the challenges of anti-Japanese sentiment and the economic pressures facing Little Tokyo today, Fugetsu-Do has not only survived but thrived, recently gaining recognition at a major Los Angeles food festival. The shop's continued success highlights the power of community support and the enduring appeal of tradition in a world that often values the new over the old.
Constructive analysis
The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.
- The problem
- The challenge of maintaining cultural heritage and small businesses in the face of historical adversity and modern economic pressures.
- The actions
- The Kito family has consistently adapted and rebuilt their business by engaging with the community and preserving traditional confectionery methods.
- Evidence of progress
- Fugetsu-Do's participation in the Family Style Food Festival and its recognition as a community staple demonstrate its continued relevance and success.
- What we can learn
- Others can learn the importance of community engagement, resilience in the face of adversity, and the value of preserving cultural traditions to maintain relevance and support.
PERMA wellbeing profile of this story
Seligman's five pillars of wellbeing, as expressed in this story.
- Positive Emotion
- 8
- Engagement
- 9
- Relationships
- 9
- Meaning
- 10
- Accomplishment
- 10
Character strengths in play
Top VIA strengths this story embodies.
Perseverance
The Kito family survived World War II internment and rebuilt their business from scratch, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to their legacy.
Hope
Brian Kito expressed his determination to keep Fugetsu-Do open for another 100 years, reflecting a forward-looking optimism.
Gratitude
Brian Kito acknowledges that the shop's survival is owed to the community's sense of ownership and support, highlighting a deep appreciation for their role.
Try this today
Reflect on a tradition or family story that has been passed down to you. Consider its significance and how you might preserve it for future generations. Share this story with someone close to you and discuss its impact on your identity and community.