I have been a Kinokuniya Bookstore member for many years and recently renewed my membership while…read morepurchasing 10 books. At the time of purchase, I specifically asked about the return policy and was told that returning books would be "no problem" as long as they remained unopened in their original plastic wrapping. When I later returned to exchange or return three of the books 10 days later, I was told that I could not do so because I did not have my receipt. This requirement was never mentioned when I asked about returns. As a longtime member, my purchase is documented through my membership account, so it is disappointing that this record could not be used to verify the transaction. I find this level of customer service unacceptable. If a receipt is required for returns, customers should be clearly informed of that at the time of purchase, especially when they specifically ask about the return policy.

One of the smaller Kinokuniya Bookstores that I've visited (it's a corner shop in Uwajimaya grocery…read morestore), but it still gets the job done! Studio Ghibli merch area right upon entering the shop, of course, of course. Decent selection of pens (I got a couple). The second level is dedicated to English-translated manga books as well as anime/video game art books and knick-knacks (sorta all in random assortment.....gotta do some thorough browsing). Since it is a small shop, the aisles are a little cramped. Kinda stuffy too, especially on the second level. Polite staff!

As I wandered around the city while visiting Seattle I decided to find the coolest and unique spots…read moreI could find for all the things I love - stationary, artisan-made goods, unique gifts, and artwork that is affordable. I even saw jewelry, name brand reusable bag line merch, and stickers here at Butter Home. Of course there was quite a variety of home goods too including candles, books, etc. I saw some great artwork that was Seattle-themed and a lot of cool large paperclips, stamps, and whatnot to bring back to my office mates as small gifts. You will find something for you and then some here. Service was great as I asked the person working for any other nearby shops. They had great suggestions for other spots to eat and hang out in the neighborhood. I was super happy they were friendly enough to make some recommendations.

Cute and unique! If you're searching for some niche home decor or trinkets, you've come to the…read moreright place! Look for signs that say "Chophouse Row" and you'll see Butter Home on your right in the alley. They have lots of items that are great for gifts! They had stationery, kitchenware, artwork, and lots of Baggu. It's a small store, but there was lots to look at. A nice change-of-pace compared to other stores in the area. A hidden gem :)

This is the coolest little store. I wanted to buy everything as soon as I stepped in the door. They…read morehave great paper goods (obviously) like cards, post cards, journals etc. but they also have a large variety of stickers, buttons, pens, graphic tees, patches, and other small gifts.

Perfect place to get some unique local gifts! I grabbed some fun postcards to share. It's a nice…read morelocation right off the street and easy access up to Pike Place

It may be hyperbole but Elliot Bay Book maybe the best bookstore in the United States. That's…read moresaying a lot but after spending a complete afternoon here, I am comfortable in my decree. EBB is have to visit if you are Seattle. Skip the bubblegum wall and the original Starbucks. If you truly want to see Seattle, visit Elliott Bay Book and you will thank me later. I wish I had more time to visit every section and shelf. I wandered aimelessly at first then found myself in Queer True Crime. I ended up having a fantastic conversation with a lovely human at the information desk. I don't remember their name but they even spoke with my daughter on my iPhone as I was looking for a particular book for my wife. I was also on the hunt for Etna, a novel but it was sold out. I ended up purchasing per a staff recommendation, 'Attempt at Exhausting a Place in Paris' by Georges Perec Reading the first couple of pages instantly transported back to Paris, a place I know extemely well, and I saw every bus, man, woman, child, server worker, and heard every klaxon and shouted obscenity. Do yourself a favor and search out Elliot Bay Book when you visit Seattle, you'll be supporting a local business and feeding your mind and soul.

Elliott Bay Book Company in Capitol Hill is a great spot to check out if you love a solid,…read moreold-school bookshop atmosphere with a trendy modern feel. The place is massive, with high wooden shelves, endless aisles, and a selection that spans just about every genre you can think of. If you remember the golden age of independent brick-and-mortar bookstores, walking in here hits a really nice nostalgic chord while still feeling vibrant and full of energy. The handwritten staff recommendation notes posted along the shelves are a fun touch, and having a cozy cafe tucked inside makes it easy to grab a drink and get lost in browsing for an hour or two. It is definitely a cool, memorable stop in the neighborhood whether you are hunting for a specific read or just soaking in the literary vibes.

Staff: The man who owns the store was so incredibly nice…read more We chatted for a while and he shared some details about the store. 5 star customer service for sure. Quality/Quantity: They have ton of really great authentic Japanese items. Value: They have really good prices. I was able to pick up a really cool drawing of Otani that his wife drew in a frame for only $20 ($12 without the frame). When you buy anything baseball they throw in a cool card celebrating when Babe Ruth visited Japan. Outside be sure to check out the many Japanese books that they sell for only $1.00. Overall: This store is awesome and I definitely plan to come again the next time I visit.

Cute small shop with high quality merchandise. I especially loved the whimsical Pike Place Market…read morecat themed post cards. Imagine cats throwing fish! Also, they have a decent selection of Japanese tableware- a bit pricey but nice quality.

This shop is so so cute! Abeit a bit small, they have a nice selection of cute items. I was super…read moreinto the kitchen stuff as well as some of the earrings! The cards were also unique but I didn't find any that really spoke to me compared to some other places. The dumpster fire earrings and the angry possum ones were so cute, I couldn't help but buy them! Your wallet might be in danger though, as items in here aren't cheap, but remember, you're paying a real artist and not some big manufacturering souless meh company who just mass produces a specific product. What really stood out to me here were all the employees! They were way too friendly and if I wasn't super introverted and scared of interaction, I probably would've loved it. Still, giving credit where it's due! Ill definitely be back next time I'm in the area!

If you've ever wanted your life to be slightly more adorable, Robot Vs. Sloth in downtown Seattle…read moreis your place. This little gift shop is packed with irresistibly cute designs by local artist Lauren Rudeck who created the spot as a place to showcase and sell her fun and twee animal art! You can get all sorts of goodies here that feature her original designs, from t-shirts to magnets, stickers, kitchen towels, enamel pins, toys, and all sorts of quirky goodies. Even better, proceeds from sales help support sloth rescue in Costa Rica! This is your chance to buy local and do some good. The gifts here are perfect for anyone on your list. I mean, who wouldn't want a cartoon of a robot fighting a sloth on their fridge or stuck to their laptop? I adore the greeting cards, which make unique notes of cheer for friends and family. Plus, it feels extra nice to support a small local artist while you're snagging a few smiles for yourself or friends. I always come to shop here whenever I'm in Seattle not just to soak up the cuteness, but to buy a few things and leave feeling like the world is a slightly funnier, fluffier place. Warning: you might also leave with more stuff than you intended, but it's totally worth it.

Suuuper pretty and addicting store with a variety of wrapping paper, lots of cards, gift sets,…read morecandles, jelwery, snacks, novelty WA state souvenirs and a bunch of adorable stuffed toys ranging from big brands like jellycat and monami to small ones like bukowskibears. Was greeted instantly by a friendly worker who was available and easy to find in the store in case I needed any help, it was the perfect shopping experience. The store also smelled amazing. Found a good deal on the large plush swan, and I'm SO happy to have her in my home! The wrapping paper is $3.95 each, or 3 for 10, which is pretty sweet. They have an amazing selection too. Happy to come back for the holidays to splurge on gifts for friends!

Shopping in Burien, Washington…read more.. My high school classmate showed me this cute shop. We walked over after having lunch nearby where street parking was free. Paper Delights was a delight! There were many cute things and practical stationery items. I got some bunny greeting cards since I knew that they would fit in my carry-on luggage. I enjoyed looking at the bunny plushies, beautiful jewelry and all kinds of cool gift items! We'll be back, especiallysince servicewas friendly and helpful!

I didn't think there was a top notch stationery store in Seattle, but I was wrong! Now, you may be…read morethinking of Paper Luxe, but you have to pay an arm and a leg at Paper Luxe for a card worth buying. At Portage Bay Goods, they only charge an arm. Kidding but also not kidding? Stationery is an expensive hobby, but the prices are a bit higher here compared to other big city independent stationery/gift stores I've seen in the last six months. I'm only talking $1-$1.5 difference, but when specialty cards usually start at $4-$5, that's a 20% price difference. Do with what you will. I still love to pick up some stationery everywhere I go, and Portage Bay Goods has a fantastic collection. The cards are fairly diverse in style and sense of humor, along with a nice array of cute and endearing cards. If you're looking for serious cards / letterpress / wedding-style paper, this is probably not the place for you (go check out Pike Street Letterpress!), but this is a great one-stop shop for all other stationery lovers.

What a nice surprise in Fremont, WA. I am a stationary fanatic and I found Portage Bay Goods to…read morehave very unique stationeries that I have not seen anywhere else. Overall I would say prices are reasonable, I'm leaving as a happy customer.

Gorgeous little gem of a store with the most interesting paper goods, pens, cards, and letterpress…read moreart.

We buy cards of all kinds here: birthday, thank you, holidays. So many thoughtful stationary and…read morewriting instrument gifts for the word nerd in your life. (and don't sleep on the hand-marbled wrapping paper ... a personal fav)

I loved the atmosphere in here, I was just picking up a few things but they have a good selection…read morefor everybody. Definitely my go-to art supply store from now on.

Just had a bizarre experience here after being a customer here for years. I started at the Tacoma…read morelocation looking for stretcher bars by the master series in 24, 36, 30, and 40s. Tacoma was out but the sweet sales associates offered to order or call Seattle. I overheard them on the phone confirming various sizes. So I thanked them & drove up to Seattle. I noticed the Seattle location didn't have the sizes I was told, I asked the guy in charge of frames/ stretchers and he claimed I asked for one size then showed me a different brand from what was confirmed over the phone, a heavy duty variety. When I expressed frustration of being told the wrong thing, he walked off pouting, didn't offer to order any for me like Tacoma did. Not wanting to leave empty handed I grabbed a couple off sizes so I can work. On my way to check out, I informed my friend of what just occured and placed the stretchers at the register. The clerk said "You need to check out over there, Sir." My flabbers were gasted! My monocle popped out! I said "Sir? I'm not a sir!". This was strange and shocking to me. So I went to the proper clerk saying "They just called me Sir. What part of me gives man? I've never been called a man." So yeah I'm mad confused as to why my petite, adorable self in pink & lilac got called a man by someone who would not appreciate being misgendered themselves.... On Pride weekend of all times. And why wasn't I offered to have the supplies ordered for me like in Tacoma? Basically I received a wild goose chase, a bad attitude, lied to about what I overheard confirmed on the phone, and casually misgendered by Seattle staff. Very sad since I prefer supporting local. The Tacoma shop is a vibe with kind, helpful staff. I'll stick with them and Jerry's Art a Rama online. Apparently several reviews report bad behavior from staff over the past year or so. Don't need the funky ahh attitude when I just wanna create.