123-Year-Old LA Sweet Shop Survives Eras of Upheaval

Fugetsu-Do, a venerable Japanese confectionery shop in Los Angeles' Little Tokyo, boasts a remarkable 123-year history. Founded in 1903 by Seiichi Kito, it holds the distinction of being the oldest Japanese-American business in the United States. The shop's journey has been marked by resilience, surviving significant historical adversies. This includes navigating the anti-Japanese racism and the forced incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II, during which the Kito family was sent to the Heart Mountain Relocation Center. Despite these hardships, Seiichi Kito continued to make traditional manju for fellow detainees. Upon returning to Los Angeles in 1946, Roy Kito, Seiichi's son, reopened Fugetsu-Do in a new location after facing financial obstacles. This act of perseverance laid the groundwork for the shop's continued existence. Today, the shop is preparing for its fourth generation of ownership, with Korey Kito training to become the next master confectioner. He is committed to preserving the family's legacy and ensuring Fugetsu-Do remains a community staple for another century, much like its recent participation in the Family Style Food Festival in July 2026 highlighted.