KOBO Capitol Hill

Pre-quarantine, I always loved stopping into KOBO to browse. This store has such a lovely variety of gifts and goods, it's easy to find something for yourself, your home, and anyone on your gift list. I also have to give them huge props for handling Covid seamlessly - curbside pickup was fast and easy, and their website is almost as fun to browse as the real store! Of course I miss browsing the store, but they've done a great job of putting their inventory up online, with lots of photos, descriptions, and even sound clips of their wind chimes - so delightful. I can't wait to browse here again post-Covid, but in the meantime, if you're looking for gifts, do check out their website!

WHAT A GEM!!! Everything in this shop is so beautiful, top quality everything. I love Kobo for gifts! The shop associate is a dream! So kind, knows everything about all the items in the shop and to top everything off, she will gift wrap your items if you would like. I LOVE LOVE LOVE KOBO!

On my way to visit Volunteer Park, Interlaken Park and the Japanese Garden, I happened upon this adorable Japanese gift shop run by a sweet woman who was an architect in a prior life. Everything in the store is high quality and oh-so-lovely, I wish I could buy everything. The detail on every item from the traditional linen clothing to shoulder bags, to dish ware, a book on treehouses, the watches, jewelry and miniature origami folded inside a miniature glass bottles are so exquisite down to the final detail. I bought a unique, colorful Taki watch as well as some souvenirs for my family. Do yourself a favor and stop by the Japanese Garden afterwards to feed the koi next to the zigzag bridge for a perfect afternoon. Maybe you'll get a surprise visit by the resident heron as gift.

Unique knick-knacks that would please anybody. Bought a set of earrings made by a local designer.

This is the original Kobo location, the more intimate and charming of the two; holding its own in the ever-vibrant Capitol Hill neighborhood. This family-owned business is hosted by the sweetest proprietors and staff who clearly are obsessed with the minutiae of detail, art, and form. Eclectic, yet intrinsically familiar, the shop is layered with discoveries waiting for your review. Whether you leave behind remuneration or not, a sacred gift will be with you as you leave this place for all the wonder and possibilities that can be found in sometimes small, unassuming packages.

Very rich in Japanese culture, meaning, if you look in the side of the store, there is a little story about how the family survived the relocation camp ordeal. Saved objects, photo of the jewish guy that saved their possessions and returned them when they got out. Very touching as the same thing happened to my parents.Cool hip art by up and coming artists with a japanese theme. Imported clothes and things from Japan. And right next to MoMo, which is another cute store.

Full disclosure -- I live upstairs from the owners of Kobo and they are so incredibly nice that I am, understandably, biased. That said, Kobo is a gem. Housed in a charming stone building with sweet window nooks and slanted eves, Kobo is where I go whenever I need a gift. I've purchased whimsical felt hats, modern Japanese prints, delicate tea cups, and fragrant soaps. This location has less art than the location in the International District, which suits this Cap Hill spot well. Funky or classy, cheap or expensive, you can find unique gifts for anyone on your holiday list.

Found this store during a short visit to Seattle - loved it! Kobo offers a well-curated stock of antiques, textiles, books and gifts related to Japan. It is located across from the equally amazing Harvard Exit cinema. I ended up buying a book and an interesting antique sake bottle. When I returned to Austin, I signed up for Kobo's email list. In one of the emails, I saw that they were selling the unique Karhu calendars from Japan - I emailed them, was able to order one by phone which they sent to me *fast.* Great customer service. Hope to return soon.

I love this place! It so cute and has so many great gift ideas! 100% going back for some gifts later this year

I stopped by today just for a pick up order, but I've been shopping at KOBO for the past five years, both the Capitol Hill and International District locations.KOBO Capitol Hill is tucked away at one end of Broadway on a cute little corner that's easy to miss if you're not looking. They have an AMAZING collection of local and international art, books, and other small finds that make it feel like a new experience every time you visit. They also have virtual art shows featuring new artists every month, offering them platform to show off new work in a time where it might not otherwise happen.Due to Covid, they've taken a lot of precautions for their customers and staff, which I really appreciate. Private shopping sessions can be booked online, and curbside pick up was a really smooth experience!