Harada House, located in Riverside, California, is an iconic site that narrates the tale of Japanese immigrants resilience and ingenuity during early 20th century America. The house was built in 1885 by Jukichi and Kenjiro Harada, two brothers from Japan who moved to the United States.

The Haradas were part of a wave of Japanese immigrants that began settling in California in the late 19th century. They opened a small store in Riverside and later purchased land to build their home. The house is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture, with its wrap-around porch, gabled roofs, and intricate wooden detailing.

Inside Harada House, visitors can explore the well-preserved living quarters and learn about the familys daily life. There are original furnishings, photographs, and personal belongings that offer a glimpse into their world. The house also features a beautiful garden designed by Kenjiro, which includes Japanese plants such as bamboo, maple trees, and azaleas.

One of the unique attributes of Harada House is its significance in American history. During World War II, when anti-Japanese sentiment was high, the Harada family faced forced relocation to internment camps. However, thanks to their U.S. citizenship status and support from the local community, they were allowed to remain at their home. This makes Harada House a symbol of hope and resistance against prejudice and intolerance.

Today, Harada House is a National Historic Landmark, providing visitors with an engaging and immersive experience that transports them back in time to the early 20th century. The house continues to serve as a reminder of the struggles faced by immigrant communities, but also of their incredible courage and determination to overcome adversity.

So, prepare for a journey through time at Harada House – a captivating destination that showcases the resilience of human spirit amidst the challenges posed by history.