It’s no secret that some of Japan’s most unassuming storefronts have earned a reputation for holding the most wonderfully unexpected things. True to form, Little Japan (2848 F St., Eureka), tucked away in Eureka’s Henderson Center, is a small but mighty culinary treasure trove.
Little Japan came to fruition through community. In the early 2000s, another beloved local imports store closed its doors, leaving a noticeable void. At the time, many people were making the more than five-hour drive to the Bay Area to stock up on goods that couldn’t be found locally. Owners Kaori and Jeremy Maciel saw that access to Asian groceries was sorely needed and did something about it. What began with flea market pop-ups eventually grew into the first iteration of Little Japan, which opened its doors in 2001. In 2014, the business moved to its current home on F Street, where it continues to attract loyal customers and curious newcomers alike.
Little Japan is truly a family affair. Both Kaori and Jeremy work in the store full time, alongside several dedicated staff members and, occasionally, their daughters. Some employees have a particularly special connection to Little Japan — they were customers as children and now help run the store they grew up visiting. Their enthusiasm and extensive product knowledge are helpful for those learning to navigate the vast selection of goods, and for those who are looking to branch out from their usual grocery list.
For a relatively small store, Little Japan packs a remarkable amount of inventory onto its shelves. Initially focused exclusively on Japanese goods, it has expanded considerably over the years. Today, roughly half of the products represent an array of Asian cultures and culinary traditions.
Shoppers will find pantry staples galore. Bags of rice line the shelves alongside curry pastes and powders, soup bases, sauces and an extensive selection of condiments. One of the most popular items, Jeremy notes, is Kewpie Mayo, the rich and tangy Japanese mayonnaise that has developed a devoted following among home cooks. The frozen section is equally impressive. Customers can pick up natto, the famously sticky — and some might say delightfully stinky — fermented soybeans that are eaten over rice. There are also various types of gyoza, savory potstickers filled with meat or vegetables, okonomiyaki, the beloved Japanese street food made from cabbage and seafood pancakes, and kamaboko, frozen fish cakes commonly plunked into soups for added flourish, among many other things. For ambitious home sushi chefs, Little Japan even carries sushi-grade frozen fish.
The refrigerated cases are stocked with domestic and imported specialty beers, mochi and other desserts, as well as teas, juices, soft drinks and coffees that can be difficult to find elsewhere in the county.
The noodle section is perhaps the most popular destination. Dry somen, soba, ramen and udon noodles are all readily available for those looking to make dinner from scratch. Still, there’s no shame in taking the easy way. One of the store’s most popular sections is its extensive assortment of instant ramen and noodle bowls. Far removed from the standard grocery store selection, Little Japan’s shelves are filled with a dizzying selection of brands and flavors. For anyone bored with their usual Cup Noodles, a trip down this aisle promises something new.
Of course, many visitors come through Little Japan’s doors with one thing on their minds: snacks.
Japanese candy has become increasingly popular, especially among younger shoppers. Shelves here are filled with gummies, fruit-flavored treats, playful chocolates shaped like mushrooms or hamburgers and unique cookies. Those looking for something savory won’t be disappointed either. The selection of crackers and chips offers plenty of options for adventurous snackers and comfort-food enthusiasts alike.
Little Japan also boasts an excellent sake selection. Whether customers are looking for an elegant bottle to share over dinner or a single-serving cup to enjoy at home, there are choices to suit nearly every taste and budget.
Beyond groceries, Little Japan offers a thoughtfully curated gift section. Beautiful ceramic bowls, spoons, sake sets, mugs and teacups fill the shelves, alongside adorable obento boxes perfect for packing lunches. The store also carries chopstick sets, serving utensils, steaming baskets, noodle strainers and other kitchen essentials necessary for preparing some of the goods available in the store. Then there are the items that simply spark joy. Plushies, kitschy toys, socks and an impressive selection of Japanese trading cards have become favorites among younger shoppers and collectors alike.
For many of us, food serves as our pathway back to our histories and families. It is a way to celebrate culture, preserve traditions and share pieces of ourselves with others. Food helps us remember our identities, no matter how many miles — or decades — separate us from the people and places that shaped us. Throughout the years, Kaori and Jeremy have also supported local AAPI organizations and efforts to bring cultural events and awareness to our community. At its heart, Little Japan supplies much more than groceries.
Little Japan
2848 F St., Eureka
Open Tuesday through Saturday,
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
https://www.facebook.com/littlejapanmarket
This article appears in My Humboldt Life July 2026.