New JAPAN HOUSE LA Exhibit Showcases Hyper-Realistic Food Art

What if you could walk up to a restaurant window and see perfectly glistening ramen, impossibly realistic tempura, and picture-perfect sushi—only to discover that none of it is edible? Welcome to Japan's extraordinary world of shokuhin sampuru (food samples), where hyper-realistic replicas have been tempting diners and transforming restaurant culture for nearly a century.

Now, for the first time in the United States, "Looks Delicious! | Exploring Japan's Food Replica Culture" at JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles invites visitors to discover this uniquely Japanese art form—from its origins in 1920s wax models to today's cutting-edge resin masterpieces that showcase all 47 prefectures' regional specialties, reveal behind-the-scenes craftsmanship, and even let you create your own replica bentō to share on social media.

Running September 18, 2025 through January 25, 2026, this free exhibition proves that sometimes the most fascinating thing about food is when you absolutely cannot eat it.

JAPAN HOUSE LA serves up food culture.

Located in the heart of Hollywood, JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles occupies two floors (Level 2 and Level 5) within the Ovation Hollywood shopping and entertainment complex. This cultural destination spans multiple spaces designed to showcase the best of Japanese art, culture, and innovation.

The venue features a 2,415 sq. ft. Gallery on Level 2 dedicated to exhibitions highlighting Japanese excellence across fields from architecture to technology, along with the WAZA Shop (offering curated Japanese goods), a restaurant, library, salon, and event spaces.

As part of a global initiative to promote Japanese culture and foster US-Japan exchange, JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles serves as an accessible gateway for visitors to experience authentic Japanese creativity, craftsmanship, and hospitality in one of LA's most popular destinations.

Workshops Where You Create Your Own Food Replicas

Complementing the "Looks Delicious!" exhibition, JAPAN HOUSE LA offers special hands-on workshops where visitors can learn the intricate techniques behind Japan's famous food replicas. Led by expert craftspeople, these workshops provide a rare opportunity to experience the meticulous process of creating shokuhin sampuru  firsthand—from molding and casting to hand-painting and assembly.

Participants will gain insight into the skill and artistry required to produce these hyper-realistic models while creating their own food replica keepsake to take home. Whether you're crafting miniature tempura, perfectly glazed sushi, or other iconic Japanese dishes, these workshops offer an unforgettable, tactile connection to this uniquely Japanese craft tradition.

More Information

• Admission: Free admission to exhibit. Paid workshops.

• Parking: Available at Ovation Hollywood, with Japan House offering $3 validation for the first two hours.

• Hours: Mon. – Fri. 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Sat. – Sun. 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM. Closed major holidays.

Common Questions

Is the “Looks Delicious!” exhibit family-friendly?

Yes, kids and adults alike enjoy spotting favorite replica dishes and learning how they’re made.

Can you take photos?

Absolutely. Photography is encouraged (just don’t touch the art!).

Will there be workshops or demos?

Select weekends include live replica-making demonstrations by Japanese artisans. For the latest happenings, visit https://www.japanhousela.com/happenings/events/ 

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Los Angeles is no stranger to Asian cuisine that’s as tasty as it is nice to look at, such as what’s being served up at the One Piece Cafe in Little Tokyo.

“Looks Delicious!” invites Angelenos to see food as art — and art as food. It’s an Instagram dream, a cultural deep dive, and a testament to craftsmanship that blurs reality. For more LA art and culture coverage, subscribe to LA Today’s weekly newsletter.