Inside a Secret Japanese Village Hidden in an Arts District Loft

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Late last month, Angelenos had the rare opportunity to check out Peter Lai's Secret Japanese Cultural Village. The fashion designer and dancer hosted tours of his 5,000-square-foot masterwork, along with a sale of his original designs and selections from his vast collection of books, art and kimonos. 

Peter Lai comes from a distinguished family of Chinese Opera, film and stage costumers, and until his retirement in 2013 ran a beloved boutique in San Marino. After retiring, Lai was able to fulfill his lifelong dream: the creation of a Japanese artist village. Lai spent more than a year creating the Cultural Village, a collection of themed vignettes, inside his massive loft in the Arts District. Lai gave L.A. Weekly a private tour.
Photos by Star Foreman.

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