When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Kinokuniya Bookstore - Portland
Why Kinokuniya Bookstore - Portland is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Kinokuniya Bookstore in Portland stands out as a unique cultural and social hub located in a historic building known as the Guild Theatre in downtown Portland. Opened in 2019, this bookstore specializes in Japanese literature, offering an extensive and curated collection of art books, manga, and comics from Japan that appeal to readers and collectors alike. Besides books, the store also features a delightful assortment of Japanese stationery and unique merchandise that delight visitors looking for quality and authentic cultural items. Though the original "Book of Tea" cafe closed, visitors can still enjoy a welcoming atmosphere perfect for meeting friends or finding a quiet moment to indulge in Japanese reading culture. The location’s charm is enhanced by its historic theater origins, blending the old with the new and creating a great place to spend leisure time either solo or with friends. Its downtown location makes it easily accessible and a favorite spot for locals and tourists interested in Japanese art, anime, and culture, making it a great destination for cultural exploration and casual meetups.
Here's what people think of Kinokuniya Bookstore - Portland
As of recent, Kinokuniya Bookstore - Portland holds a 4.7-star rating based on 905 reviews.
Reviews of Kinokuniya Portland reveal a very positive reception from the community, reflected in its high rating of 4.7 from over 900 reviews. Many customers praise the store for its impressive and well-curated selection of Japanese manga, art books, and stationery, highlighting it as a unique specialty bookstore that stands out from typical U.S. bookstores. Positive comments often mention the staff’s helpfulness and the store’s inviting, clean environment, which encourages browsing and discovery. Customers also appreciate the fusion of cultural authenticity with a collectible appeal, giving the store a niche appeal for Japanese culture enthusiasts. On the downside, some reviews have noted that the store's closure of its "Book of Tea" cafe was a disappointment, reducing the chance to enjoy authentic Japanese tea on location. A few also mention that the store can be somewhat small and limited in seating, which may not accommodate large groups or extended stays comfortably. Overall, reviewers recommend Kinokuniya Portland for anyone interested in Japanese books and culture, citing its unique offerings and friendly atmosphere as key strengths despite some minor drawbacks related to space and amenities. The consensus is that Kinokuniya Portland is a delightful bookstore experience worth visiting for fans of Japanese culture and literature.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Christina Klarenbach-Harris
Great bookstore. My granddaughters favorite place to go. So much to see. We spent about an hour inside just looking at everything. Then we went upstairs..even more stuff. She bought a book and 2 pens. I would definitely recommend this bookstore. We will be back.
Nicole Arreola
Took my Anime fanatic son here and he LOVED it. I appreciate Anime as well and got a kick out of all the options they have. All sorts of mangas, cook books, drawing, plushies, videos! Definitely worth the visit.
Cheryl Johnston
Awesome place for cute trinkets. Went there because I was told they have a decent selection of Tokidoki Unicornos, and they did! But they had many other cute things too. Sanrio, Ghibli, Manga, etc.
Emily -x-
The security at this place always makes me feel weird. Kinokuniya is known to readers of Japanese as a global bookstore chain and I have been to a lot of them over the years and seen the evolution of their US stores as they've shifted from being a small chain frequented mostly by Japanese expats to a massive beast feeding the global otaku hunger for anime and manga. The downtown Portland store differs from most other stores in focusing almost exclusively on catering to the latter audience: this kino features manga, model kits and Japanese stationery goods with a dusting of other things generally in the "cool Japan" bucket randomly adding color too. This isn't to say they only sell manga and art books though-- this kino has a tight selection of Japanese novels in both English and Japanese that provide something unique even for someone like me who has the papers to prove their expertise in the field. They also offer an interesting assortment of nonfiction in both languages that carry that very smart contemporary appeal. Books on the histories of Japanese candies or Showa era design, a series of manga that teach you management skills, unique Portland guides and gorgeous children's books stood out my last visit. My major issue with kinokuniya is their prices and it feels even worse at this location - I think it is because of the curation and not a different pricing structure. Kinokuniya is very reliable in how it prices items I think but the standard they use is from an era where these items were difficult to get in the US at all and where importing was much more expensive than today. I am frustrated because I would spend a lot more here if the prices weren't double what I could pay elsewhere. And I don't just mean their imports - they stick to the SRP on their domestic merch or higher which, I'm sorry, growing up in the city of Powells I have never paid SRP for a paperback. Personally, I think well curated shops provide guests an experience that appeals to first timers and regulars, offers predictable items and curiosities, is ready to provide the batteries to the toy it sells and has variety in pricing so that on any visit a guest could come in and find something catch their eye and fall into their budget. This kinokuniya does an excellent job - surprisingly to me - of many parts of that list but they need to either relax their pricing or add some budget items into the mix. Or, put it another way, I never finish at this store with that heady satisfied feeling like I found a treasure or a deal and that feeling is something that hooks you into coming back. I know kinokuniya is a more utilitarian company - in Japan it's a bookstore with simple layouts and very dull colors. But this kino screams out like it's trying to be on Takeshita-dori and could use a few of their tricks to really thrive.
Emily Creasy
VERY cute store for all things Japan. I bought my friend here as she is a major anime fan. The prices are a bit high but a lot of the stuff looks imported so I guess that makes sense. I loved the pen and notebook variety!
How to reach Kinokuniya Bookstore - Portland
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Why Kinokuniya Bookstore - Portland may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Kinokuniya Bookstore - Portland with your friends? Kinokuniya Portland offers a unique blend of cultural richness, diverse book selections, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it an ideal destination for gatherings. Located in a historic cinema building called the Guild Theatre, this bookstore is more than just a retail space; it embodies the spirit of discovery and shared passion for literature and art. With a solid 4.7 rating and over 900 reviews, Kinokuniya Portland has proven itself as a top destination for locals and visitors alike. Whether your friends are avid readers, art enthusiasts, or simply looking for a calm yet vibrant environment, Kinokuniya provides the perfect backdrop for bonding over mutual interests. Its carefully curated collection of Japanese books, comics, and stationery creates a conversation starter, and its inviting ambiance makes it easy for groups to linger and enjoy the experience, creating lasting memories.
What activities can you enjoy at Kinokuniya Portland that make it perfect for groups? The bookstore offers a wide variety of engaging experiences, starting with an extensive selection of books and graphic novels, especially focusing on Japanese art, manga, and culture. Groups can explore shelves filled with unique titles not commonly found in other bookstores, sparking discussions and shared discoveries. In addition to books, the store showcases unique merchandise and authentic Japanese stationery, appealing to collectors and artists in your group who appreciate quality writing and art supplies. Even though their onsite café—once known as “Book of Tea”—is permanently closed, the store’s comfortable layout encourages browsing and informal conversation. Its location in downtown Portland makes it easy to plan a full-day meetup that can include nearby dining or sightseeing options before or after your visit. With daily hours from 10:30 AM to 7 PM, Kinokuniya is flexible for both daytime and early evening gatherings.
Why is the cultural and architectural setting of Kinokuniya Portland a draw for group meetups? Hosting a meetup in a historic cinema building like the Guild Theatre adds an irreplaceable charm and atmosphere to your gathering. The repurposed venue keeps the nostalgic feel of its original function while now serving as a modern cultural hub. This setting sparks curiosity and conversations about the building’s history and the arts scene in Portland. For friends and family who appreciate architecture, history, or unique spaces, Kinokuniya stands out from generic meeting spots. Moreover, the artistic and international theme of the bookstore enriches the group experience, providing a distinctive environment that can inspire creativity and deepened bonding. Meeting here means sharing more than just books—you share an appreciation for culture and heritage, making any gathering memorable and special.
How does Kinokuniya Portland cater to both casual visitors and devoted fans of Japanese culture? The store’s inventory is thoughtfully curated to appeal to a wide range of visitors. Casual visitors can enjoy browsing popular graphic novels, art books, and engaging manga collections that have something new and exciting for everyone. Meanwhile, those deeply invested in Japanese culture will find premium Japanese stationery items, bilingual language learning books, and specially imported gifts that are often exclusive in the U.S. This balance means your group can accommodate a variety of interests and knowledge levels, encouraging inclusive conversations and activities. Kinokuniya also regularly updates its selections, so no matter how many times your group visits, there’s always something new to explore, keeping meetups fresh and exciting over time.
What makes Kinokuniya Portland an accessible and convenient location for group gatherings? Situated at 829 SW 9th Avenue in downtown Portland, Kinokuniya enjoys a prime location that is easy to reach by car, bike, or public transportation. The central location allows friends and family from various parts of the city or visiting tourists to converge without much hassle. Ample nearby dining options and entertainment venues complement your bookstore experience perfectly, enabling multi-activity outings. The store maintains consistent daily hours from 10:30 AM to 7 PM, providing ample time for leisurely visits whether on weekends or weekdays. As Portland’s vibrant downtown area attracts steady foot traffic, you and your group can easily combine your visit with other favorite local spots, turning a meetup into a full cultural day out.
Why is Kinokuniya Portland ideal for creative and artistic group activities? The bookstore’s focus on Japanese art, comics, and design supplies provides fertile ground for creative inspiration. Many visitors come to explore specialty stationery, brush pens, inks, and sketchbooks sourced directly from Japan, making it a haven for artists and designers in your group. Sharing these niche supplies can open doors to collaborative art projects or casual sketching meetups right in the bookstore or nearby. The curated art books and design literature not only inspire but educate, which can prompt group discussions, workshops, or informal critique sessions. The peaceful yet stimulating environment helps everyone tap into their artistic side, making Kinokuniya a creative incubator perfect for groups of all ages and skill levels.
How can Kinokuniya Portland enhance your social meetup beyond just book shopping? Beyond the obvious pleasure of book browsing and shopping, Kinokuniya’s environment itself encourages social connection through cultural immersion. It serves as a natural conversation starter where friends can bond over shared favorite manga series, artistic techniques, or Japanese cultural themes. The store’s staff are knowledgeable and often enthusiastic about helping visitors discover new titles or products, which can add an extra layer of engagement for your group. Additionally, the bookstore hosts special events on occasion—such as artist signings, manga releases, or cultural celebrations—which can serve as unique meetup opportunities that add excitement and exclusivity. This dynamic setting transforms a simple outing into a rich, culturally infused social experience perfect for meeting with friends or family.
What can groups do after visiting Kinokuniya Portland to extend the meetup experience? Thanks to its prime downtown location, groups can easily transition to exploring nearby attractions, restaurants, and cafes after their visit. Portland’s rich culinary scene offers a variety of Japanese and Asian cuisine options where the cultural conversations started at Kinokuniya can continue over shared meals. Alternatively, you can visit local art galleries, theaters, or walk through nearby scenic urban parks to further enjoy Portland’s creative vibe. These complementary activities allow your group to build a full day of connection, exploration, and fun. Kinokuniya Portland acts as the perfect kickoff point, setting a thoughtful and cultural tone that enriches the entire meetup itinerary.
Why do reviews and public feedback make Kinokuniya Portland a trusted venue for meetups? With a strong 4.7-star rating from over 900 reviewers, Kinokuniya Portland has garnered widespread praise for its unique offerings, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere. Many reviewers highlight the bookstore’s blend of cultural authenticity and local charm, noting it as a perfect place for both single visitors and groups to relax and explore together. Positive feedback often mentions the curated selection of books and merchandise as a standout, alongside the store’s commitment to quality and customer experience. This level of approval reflects a reliable consistency in the store’s environment and services, assuring groups that their meetup will be enjoyable and fulfilling. Trust in Kinokuniya as a gathering place comes from these real customer experiences that reinforce its reputation.
How is Kinokuniya Bookstore positioned within Portland’s broader cultural and social landscape? As part of Portland’s vibrant cultural community, Kinokuniya serves as a bridge between Japanese art and literature and the city’s enthusiastic audience for global cultural experiences. It enriches Portland’s bookstore scene by offering something unique and specialized, fulfilling a niche market unserved by larger chain stores. By fostering interest in Japanese culture through books, art, and products, Kinokuniya contributes to the diverse cultural tapestry that defines Portland’s identity. Meeting here means engaging not only with a store but with a community hub that supports learning, creativity, and international appreciation. For groups looking to explore cultural dimensions beyond the ordinary, Kinokuniya Portland provides a stimulating and enriching venue.
What makes Kinokuniya Portland stand out compared to other bookstores for group meetups? Unlike standard bookstores that focus simply on retail, Kinokuniya Portland offers an immersive experience rooted in cultural connection and artistic discovery. Its product range, from manga to unique stationery, offers specialized interests that directly cater to groups who want shared discovery and creative exploration. The historic setting of a repurposed cinema adds character and an experiential dimension uncommon in typical bookstores. The knowledgeable staff and frequent rotations of unique imports keep visiting fresh and engaging for returning groups. Finally, its central location and easy accessibility make it a convenient choice for meetups of any size and type. All these factors combine to position Kinokuniya not just as a bookstore but an interactive cultural destination ideal for friends and family meetups.