On a single stroll through Chinatown/International District, there are any number of wonders to be found that belong in your holiday goodie bag. The International Examiner sent intern Chelsee Yee to document some of her finds that make great stocking stuffers, gifts to wow with, or just presents for yourself. Happy shopping!
1. Scarves from Momo
Momo is a funky boutique that offers a great deal of assortments, ranging from home décor to vintage jewelry to Japanese adornments, and of course, their notable wool/cashmere scarves—a perfect gift for the winter season. While these scarves can be a bit pricy for some shoppers (many are over $100), Momo also offers one of a kind finds throughout the shop that include a unique variety of charming trinkets and knick knacks that might be in your budget. Momo is located at 600 S Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98104.
2. My Neighbor Totoro plushy at Kinokuniya Bookstore
At the corner of Uwajimaya Village, you’ll find everyone’s favorite bookstore in the International District. Kinokuniya Bookstore offers shelves and shelves of cool comic books and discounted supplies for the holidays, but if the person you’re buying for is not a reader, then check out this cute plushy of My Neighbor Totoro. (Small- $16.50, Medium- $27.50, Large- $55) It’s great for kids who need a friend to cuddle with at night, and if they behaved extra good this year, be sure to check out the blue Totoro plushies that cost just a little more. Kinokuniya Bookstore is located at 525 S Weller St., Seattle, WA 98104.
3. Retro video games at Pink Gorilla
Pink Gorilla offers a variety of new and retro video games for any kind of platform, Japanese or American. Right now, there’s a “Buy 2, Get 1 Free” for many PlayStation 2 games and more. But if you don’t have the station to play it with, then maybe what you’re looking for is the timeless, original Nintendo Game Boy that’s fun to play at any age ($30). Pink Gorilla is located at 601 S King St., Seattle, WA 98104.
4. Bamboo at Thoi Dai Gift Shop
This gift shop is like walking into Chinese New Year. Mini Buddha fountains, jade key chains, shelves of candles and incense, lotus lamps—the gift options are endless, especially if you’re going for a spiritual theme. However, the bamboo plants (ranging from $1 to $40) are the way to go if you want to get an early start on setting that lucky New Year. Thoi Dai Gift Shop is located at 650 S Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98104.
5. Socks at Daiso Japan
Soft gloves. Knee-high socks. Cover socks. Anklets. Beanies. Scarves. Belly Bands. All the winter gear you need for $1.50 each (unless otherwise marked). These cute, furry accessories bring the fashion to frosty weather that would make any girl smile. Daiso Japan is located at 710 6th Ave. S, Seattle, WA 98104.
6. Ornaments at Kobo
A neighbor to Momo, Kobo at Higo serves as a division between an Asian Hallmark and art gallery full of beautiful ceramic pieces. On the retail side, you can find an assortment of books, cards, clothes, and décor that are commercially priced. At the back of the shop, you’ll find a cute display of Christmas ornaments that can range from $5 to $20. These ornaments are simple but high in quality. And what tree doesn’t need more decorating? Kobo is located at 602-608 S Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98104.
