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Explore More: Discover the Rich History of Sacramento's Japantown with Extended Resources

Explore more about Sacramento's Japantown with our comprehensive guide alongside the documentary "Lost Neighborhoods: Japantown."
July 18, 2024
Explore More: Discover the Rich History of Sacramento's Japantown with Extended Resources

Lost Neighborhoods: Japantown unveils the layered past of Sacramento's Japantown, a once-thriving community that faced numerous challenges over the decades.

To investigate this history further, we've curated a selection of resources that illuminate the lost neighborhood of Japantown from multiple angles.

Featured Book:

  • Sacramento's Historic Japantown: Legacy of a Lost Neighborhood (American Heritage) by Kevin Wildie, is an essential read for anyone interested in the detailed history of Japantown. Using oral histories and numerous photographs, Wildie explores the cultural and economic vibrancy of this community and its unfortunate erasure under urban renewal policies.

Educational Resources:

  • PBS Specials on Sacramento's Japantown: Explore a series of PBS documentaries that provide a visual and narrative exploration of Japantown's development, its challenges during periods of discrimination, and the stories of its residents. These specials can be found by searching for "Japantown" on the PBS website.
  • Goodsides' Educational Module: In "Showcasing Historic Preservation: Curriculum Ideas for Local Teachers," we created a video module for the City of Sacramento that helps local educators integrate the history of Japantown into their curriculums. It combines historical data with modern-day storytelling techniques to engage students with local history. Watch it here.
Japantown in Sacramento (circa 1940) found here: japantownatlas.com

Online Exhibits and Articles:

  • California Japantowns: This interactive website maps out the locations and histories of pre-WWII Japantowns across California, including Sacramento. It's an invaluable tool for anyone looking to learn about the broader context of Japanese American communities. Discover more at California Japantowns.
  • Japantown Atlas: Dive into the Japantown Atlas to see detailed maps and historical insights of Sacramento’s Japantown. This resource is great for visual learners and those interested in the geographical aspects of this history. Visit the Japantown Atlas.
  • Nichi Bei: For contemporary reflections and historical articles on Japantowns, including Sacramento's, Nichi Bei offers a wealth of resources and articles. Check out their coverage here.

Additional Online Resources:

  • Digital Museum of San Francisco Japantown: Provides a digital exhibit detailing the history of Japantown in San Francisco, which shares similarities and contrasts with Sacramento's own neighborhood. This can provide comparative insights. Explore the museum here.
  • The Japanese American Historical Society: This organization offers extensive archives and articles about the experiences of Japanese Americans, including those in Sacramento. Their resources can provide further context about the broader experiences of Japanese communities in the US. Learn more here.

Visit and Experience:

  • Sacramento Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce: Learn about the ongoing cultural significance and revitalization efforts of Sacramento’s Japantown through the Sacramento Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce. More details are available on their website.

Each of these resources provides a different perspective on the history of Sacramento's Japantown, offering a comprehensive view that enhances the narratives explored in our documentary.

We invite you to explore these links to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of this important part of American history.

Interested in Telling Your Own Story?

If the rich history of Sacramento's Japantown has inspired you, and you’re considering pursuing a story or producing a documentary of your own, we at Goodsides are eager to help bring your vision to life.

Our team is equipped with expertise in capturing compelling narratives and providing high-quality video production services.

Connect with us today to discuss how we can support your project and make your story a reality.