Clean California in Little Tokyo

Sustainable Little Tokyo (SLT) is proud to support the goals of Clean California, a statewide initiative led by Caltrans to reduce litter and create more inviting, vibrant public spaces throughout California.

While Little Tokyo is not yet a designated Clean California partner, SLT is actively working toward official designation. Our community is already aligning with the program’s vision by taking proactive steps to keep our neighborhood clean, safe, and welcoming — especially as we look ahead to the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

Honoring a Legacy of Community Stewardship

Long before Clean California, Little Tokyo community members have stepped up to care for our shared spaces.

• Little Tokyo SPARKLE, a beloved tradition spanning many years, has brought hundreds of volunteers together for neighborhood cleanups, graffiti removal, and beautification projects — all to uplift and protect Little Tokyo.

• The Rotary Club of Little Tokyo continues to lead regular cleanups at Hashimoto Plaza, honoring the legacy of Frances Hashimoto, owner of Mikawaya and diehard proponent of Little Tokyo

• Other ongoing efforts — led by local residents, businesses, temples, churches, and nonprofits — have all contributed to a long-standing culture of community care.

Our pursuit of Clean California designation is not the beginning — it's a continuation of these grassroots efforts that have always placed collective responsibility and neighborhood pride at the center!

Why We’re Pursuing Clean California Designation

Little Tokyo is one of the last remaining historic Japantowns in the United States — a neighborhood rich in culture, history, and community activism. For years, Sustainable Little Tokyo, the Rotary Club of Little Tokyo, Little Tokyo SPARKLE, and many local partners have worked to preserve its character and cleanliness. However, recent increases in graffiti/tagging, copper wire theft, and illegal dumping have made the need for coordinated action more urgent.

By pursuing Clean California designation, we aim to:

• Expand our ability to remove graffiti and litter quickly

• Collaborate with local artists and youth on public art and beautification projects

• Enhance public spaces and improve safety

• Promote education, stewardship, and community pride

Little Tokyo SPARKLE

Rooted in Values: Mottainai and Sustainable Little Tokyo

Our work is grounded in the Japanese principle of mottainai — a deep respect for resources, a rejection of waste, and a commitment to sustainable living. This cultural value guides how we care for our neighborhood and each other.

As part of the broader Sustainable Little Tokyo movement, these cleanup and beautification efforts are tied to a larger vision for protecting Little Tokyo’s cultural, environmental, and economic future. Clean California supports this vision by helping to reduce waste and invest in the long-term health and resilience of our community.

Looking Ahead to 2028 — and Beyond

With the 2028 Olympics approaching, we see this as a pivotal opportunity to uplift and protect Little Tokyo for the world to see — and for future generations to inherit. Through this journey toward Clean California designation, we’re not just cleaning up; we’re continuing a legacy rooted in culture, care, and collective action.

Stay tuned for updates as our Clean California efforts grow!