In a heartfelt plea echoing through the chambers of San Francisco's city hall, community member Ben Nakajo passionately advocated for the designation of Tokaido Arts as a legacy business. With roots in Japantown dating back to 1959, Nakajo's connection to the area runs deep, as he reminisced about the vibrant Old Japantown that once thrived before redevelopment reshaped the landscape.

As he spoke, Nakajo painted a vivid picture of Japantown's resilience, rising anew from the ashes of change. He emphasized the importance of preserving the community's heart and soul, which he believes is embodied in its diverse businesses and institutions. Among these, Tokaido Arts stands out as a beacon of cultural heritage, founded by the Suh family, immigrants from Taiwan who brought with them a wealth of knowledge in art and history.

Tokaido Arts, originally established as Fine Arts in 1971, has been a cornerstone of Japantown for over five decades. The gallery, known for its exquisite collection of classical Japanese wood prints, has transitioned through generations, with Robert Hsu now at the helm. Under his stewardship, the gallery has not only been beautifully remodeled but has also retained its mission of serving art lovers and collectors alike.

As Nakajo concluded his remarks, he expressed gratitude for the presence of Tokaido Arts in his life, highlighting the gallery's significance not just as a business, but as a vital part of the community's identity. His words resonated with the commissioners and attendees, underscoring the collective desire to honor and protect the cultural legacy of Japantown for future generations. The meeting served as a reminder of the importance of community voices in shaping the future of cherished local institutions.