Oregon Nikkei Endowment
On January 1, 2020, Oregon Nikkei Endowment/Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center changed its name to Japanese American Museum of Oregon.
The term “Nikkei” means Japanese emigrants and their descendants.
Japanese American Museum of Oregon is a history museum in Portland, charged with the preservation and sharing of the history and culture of the Nikkei community. Formerly known as the Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center, the museum opened the doors to its current home in September of 2004 with a permanent exhibit space that highlights Issei immigration and early life in Oregon, Nihonmachi (Japantown), and life after Executive Order 9066, including the Portland Assembly Center and contemporary Nikkei life.
The Japanese American Museum of Oregon has expanded storage for archives and historical artifacts, a community room for public meetings and programs, and an improved library. The current location has been made possible through the generosity of Naito Corporation, community contributors, corporate and business donors, and foundation grants.
For many years we have been searching for a property to purchase, allowing us to stay in the bounds of Portland’s historic Japantown. Through an opportunity with Prosper Portland, we are acquiring the first floor of the Old Town Lofts on the corner of NW 4th and Flanders Street in Old Town, ensuring our presence in this culturally significant neighborhood. Check back for information on programs, our closure at the 2nd Avenue site, and our re-opening at the 4th and Flanders site.