If you're a lover of fine paper, cute precision pens, and charming accessories, Los Angeles is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. The city's vibrant Japanese stationery scene offers a unique variety of items that range from quirky to downright impressive! In this guide, we'll take you through some of the top stationery stores in (and around!) Los Angeles that you simply can't miss.
As usual, we've compiled this list in Google Maps so you can easily find them when visiting. Feel free to bookmark it!
1. Kinokuniya Los Angeles
Located in the heart of Little Tokyo, this unique stationery store is a conveniently located stop for stationery enthusiasts. Whether you’re in the area to enjoy some delicious food (from Shabu Shabu to cozy cafes) or kawaii plushies and figurines (we won’t judge), you’ll want to add this stop to your itinerary.
Known for its extensive selection of Japanese books and manga, this store also boasts a fantastic range of stationery. From washi tapes and stickers to elegant fountain pens and notebooks, Kinokuniya has something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out their seasonal collections for limited-edition items!
Highlights:
- Wide variety of washi tapes
- Limited-edition stationery
- Convenient location in Little Tokyo
2. Baum-Kuchen
Baum-Kuchen, although elusive, is a must-visit for dedicated stationery fans. This charming store offers a carefully curated selection of high-quality Japanese stationery. Known for their beautiful Traveler’s Notebooks and exclusive collaborations, Baum-Kuchen is the perfect spot for finding unique and thoughtfully designed items.
This cute and cozy store offers stunning curation and knowledgeable staff who seem to really care about their craft! Don’t believe me? Take a look at their Yelp reviews.
Read Josie C.'s review of Baum-kuchen on Yelp
Highlights:
- Exclusive collaborations
- High-quality Traveler’s Notebooks
- Planner Personalization Available In-Store
Please note: This store is only open one day a week so be sure to check their schedule before you visit!
3. M. Lovewell
This cute little store, tucked away in the back of a coffee shop on a side street, stands out as one of the top-tier stationery stores in Los Angeles. With a strong focus on quality and craftsmanship, this store offers a variety of Japanese stationery items that are both functional and adorable. From luxurious pens to beautifully designed notebooks, M. Lovewell is a favorite among local college students – as it should be!
Highlights:
- High-quality, well-crafted products
- Opportunity to participate in on-site workshops
- Knowledgeable and friendly staff
4. Flax Pen to Paper
Flax Pen to Paper is another S-tier destination for stationery lovers. This high-end stationery shop has a rich history, first opening as an art supply store back in 1931. Nowadays, it offers a broad selection of Japanese pens, notebooks, and art supplies. This store is known for their exceptional customer service and extensive product range. Plus, it might be the best place in Los Angeles to buy gifts for stationery lovers.
Highlights:
- Offers custom stationery and fountain-pen cleaning
- Excellent customer service and cute pop-up events
- Their mascot, Juan Luc, will sometimes be visiting the store
5. Paper Plant Co.
Paper Plant Co., an absolutely adorable pink and white store and cozy coffee shop, is a hidden gem in Los Angeles. They’re unapologetic about what they offer: the cutest curated selection of creative stationery in Los Angeles’ Chinatown. Though small, this store offers must-haves for every aesthetic, from unique stickers to Mildliners and Hobonichi journal covers. It’s the perfect place to grab a coffee and browse through beautifully crafted notebooks and while getting introduced to new artists and brands.
Highlights:
- Cozy and charming atmosphere
- Unique and beautifully crafted items
- Located within a coffee shop
6. ShibuyaLA
Located in a bustling mall, ShibuyaLA features a small but very fun section of Japanese stationery. It's a great spot to find cute and quirky items, from character-themed pens to decorative tapes. Despite its smaller size and limited selection, ShibuyaLA offers a charming atmosphere and everything from skincare to snacks—that’s worth checking out!
Highlights:
- Cute and quirky stationery items
- Convenient mall location
- Well-curated selection
Please note: This store does not offer any refunds or returns so please keep this in mind before you purchase anything!
Must-Have Stationery Items to Buy While in Los Angeles
1. Adorable Washi Tapes
Washi tapes are a staple in any stationery collection. They come in endless patterns and colors, from cute animals to elegant florals. Use them to decorate your planners, notebooks, and even gift wrapping!
2. Quirky Sticky Notes
Sticky notes and memo pads aren't just for reminders anymore. Find ones shaped like sushi, animals, or even famous landmarks. Look for brands like Furukawashiko, Mind Wave, or Beverly!
3. Premium Notebooks
Whether you prefer dot grid, lined, or blank pages, Los Angeles stationery stores offer high-quality notebooks that are perfect for bullet journaling and art. Pick up a Campus Notebook, Traveler’s, or even a Hobonichi.
4. Cute and Functional Pens
From gel pens that glide like butter to fountain pens with a regal vibe, the pen selection in LA's stationery shops is top-notch. Don’t miss out on limited edition collaborations that feature your favorite characters!
5. Unique Letter Sets
Letter writing is an art, and what better way to express your thoughts than with beautifully designed letter sets? There are so many designs and themes; whether you’re looking for kawaii or vintage, you’ll be able to find something that piques your interest. Look for ones with matching envelopes and seals for that extra special touch.
6. Charming Stickers
Stickers are a fun way to show your personality when journaling. Find everything from textured and holographic designs to transfer sticker sheets that look like watercolor. They’re perfect for adding a bit of color to your planner, journal, or even laptop.
7. Creative Stamps and Ink Pads
Get crafty with stamps and ink pads. They’re great for making cards, decorating your journal, or adding a personal touch to your letters. Don’t come with any preconceived ideas about how stamps should look. There are designs for everything from habit tracking and ink swatching to adding tiny, tiny details in your latest spread.
8. Stylish Desk Accessories
Spruce up your workspace with adorable desk accessories! From pastel-colored and character-themed pen holders to cute memo pad stands, these items will make your desk a delightful place to be productive.
Conclusion
Of course, there are many more amazing stores in Los Angeles for student and hobbyist supplies. But if you’d like to support a vtuber-owned small business, consider taking a look at our store! While we might not carry the same selection as the stores listed above, we do sell a ton of cozy and cute stationery products from Japan.
Related Posts:
- The Ultimate Guide to Stationery Shopping in Japan
- What is Washi Tape Used For?
- Why Traveler’s Factory Japan is a Must-Visit for Stationery Lovers
1 comment
Saiko Stationery has turned into my fav online shop. Im always lucky enough to get my orders delivered within 2-3 days. Everything is packaged in the most careful manner, i’ve never gotten a bent sticker sheet or crumpled sticky notes. Thank you, and I hope this business continues to flourish!