The elderly lady shopkeeper makes constant rude remarks in Japanese in front of customers, as if they couldn't possibly understand her. In addition she stares at you like you're going to steal, and checks things you touch after you touch them. I have never seen a shopkeeper give attitude over asking her for the price of items...I might have been asking her to give blood. Ma'am, I very much understood your Japanese grumbling in front of me that my child was noisy and saying "just shut up already", when she was just being a normal child laughing with her father next to me while I was trying to shop. I didn't buy anything which is a pity, I came here often growing up but I never will go to this shop again. Go to BUNKADO instead, they carry the same and many more varieties of traditional Japanese souvenirs and articles, they have top notch service, many more books, and are kind and polite. Way more respectable store that takes pride in its stock, versus Blooming where everything is dusty or grimy but still somehow overpriced. read more

This review is for the Wishing Tree: After seeing a small crowd of people writing down wishes of their on a strips of colored paper and hanging them on a tree in front of Blooming Art Gallery, four of us wrote down our own wishes and also placed them on the tree. I think this is a great idea because I believe that if you put a wish out "there," somewhere in the universe, that wish just may come true. Buy a strip of paper from the employees. Write you wish(es) and tie your paper on the tree with everyone else's wishes. Now that you've announced your wishes, think positively and they will come true! read more

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So much cute things for a reasonable price. I would say get small Sanrio things here than the main Sanrio store if you want something affordable. The owner is super sweet and friendly. Great with kids. read more

Blooming Art Gallery - Art Galleries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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What a fun place!!! I've been so many time in Little Tokyo's plaza and saw Blooming At Gallery but never checked it out! They have a lot of cool, unique merchandise on display, many Japanese imports. Great place to browse, shop, get a cool gift or souvenir, not on the touristy side. Key chains, phone cases, small wallets, decor items, cool masks, Beatles memorabilia and I can go on and on. Decent prices, nice customer service, fun to explore. Outside they have a cool wishing tree, which is unique. So, take advantage, make a wish, leave it hangin' in this colorful tree! Nice store, you can find some interesting merchandise here! Or at least get some gift ideas for next time! read more

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On August 18, 2024, I went to play taiko for the annual Taiko Gathering in Little Tokyo. After we were done performing, I went with my group to buy items for "Bras for a Cause" which is a Soroptimist charity that I support every year. The assignment was to collect items to go along with a decorated bra to raise money to help women with their treatments for Breast Cancer. Each bra always has a fun theme. My theme was "The Sakura Bra". Of course we went to Bloomin Art. This has always been one of my favorite stores in Little Tokyo, and I have had conversations with the owner before. On this occasion, I explained what we were doing and why we were buying the items. We finished our purchase and I was walking away when she approached me and gave me a fan for my bra. I don't think I have ever gotten her name although we have spoken several times. I have many items in my house from this store and have always had a great opinion of it. However, now, because of the generosity of its wonderful owner, it should not have five stars. It should have 10 stars. Now I need to contact her so I can add her name to the donor list. If she should see this, THANK YOU - I have added the name of your store to my donor list! read more

Blooming Art Gallery - The pink fan was donated to my charity from the owner of Bloomin' Art. THANK YOU!! - Art Galleries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Little nice boutique full of souvenirs and little nic nacs. My cousin bought himself little Chinese exercise balls that are designed to improve hands dexterity and strength, and it's good for nervous system as well. They have nice calming soft bell chimes when you rotate the pair in your hand. Me and my daughter got beautiful matching amber bracelets that "Inspire our inner spirit". It's so magical and beautiful. Prepare to spend some money cause some things are just too adorable not to buy. Well it has a moderate price range so it's so worth browsing, finding and buying beautiful and meaningful gifts or souvenirs. Will definitely be back to this store closer to holidays because it does offer really interesting and unique gifts. Employees were super nice and super helpful - huge plus read more

Blooming Art Gallery - Art Galleries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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This is a great spot to visit and purchase a good selection of items. You are able to purchase traditional Japanese items from fans,chopsticks, purses,charms as well other items such as Beatles memorabilia. The buddha alter in front of the door is welcoming and gives a great light to the place. Nikki is great and welcoming. She is always willing to answer any questions you may have about anything at the store. Parking is on the street or adjacent lot. read more

Blooming Art Gallery - Art Galleries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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went to Blooming art gallery today it was my first time in Little Tokyo and I had bought a my neighbor Totoro cup from her and that cup with around $14.21 I gave her a $20 bill for my cup but I was leaving home and saw that the cup I had gotten looked familiar to the one I had and went to return it she was giving me an attitude when I came and I had told her about it but since I have bad memories I tend to buy stuff I already have and tried to explain it to her but she said "oh all of a sudden you remembered you had it at home you we're just looking at it" I told her yes I know but I already have one at home so I'll like to return it she was getting the money and only gave me $15 dollars I had asked her about the other 5 since I gave her a $20 she told me I owed her money but here's the thing I had $110 and spent 20 so I'll have 90 dollars right? Yes but since $90 + 15 = 105 you get where I'm going? She didn't want to give me back my money and tired to take more money from me and then called me crazy and insane and stupid and said I had problems??? So I was trying to get my 20 back but ended up not getting my full money back but end of the day she wanted to say I owed her 5 bucks when she only gave 0.80 in change. Please don't come here especially when your a teenager she'll take advantage of you here's another place you should go to instead also yes I did call a security guard but she was no help and also he had told me that she's the main problem that people have when they go to Little Tokyo that they get a lot of complaints to go over to her booth so that says a lot I'll leave a picture of her. read more

Blooming Art Gallery - Art Galleries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I was here 3 years ago and have now returned to buy more good luck charms. They have worked very well for me. The store owner Nikki was so helpful in explaining the meaning of the various good luck items. She throughly explained the process and techniques for what to do. There are many items she brings directly from Japan and the craftsmanship is superb. Some of the items include Dharma Buddhas, Japanese tea cups with covers, various Japanese tableware, lots of artwork, incense sticks and holders and many more items. I'll definitely be back for more! read more

Ahhh. The Blooming Art Gallery. Home of the Wishing Tree in Little Tokyo Village!!! Guys, I urge you to make a wish and also pay .50 cents to get a piece of the origami paper and a pencil and write your wish. There is so much to choose from at this gift shop. It is one of my absolute favorite stores in Los Angeles. I bought a Japanese paper doll bookmark, a "Say It Right In Japanese," Language Book, and a bunch of chopstick kits. I bought a lot of traditional gifts for my loved ones and meditated for a bit in the seating area for a bit. read more

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Friends and I walked into this tiny Little Tokyo spot one afternoon - it's one of the tiniest in the area, if I'm not mistaken. This store has quite the collection of striking and hard-to-find Japanese goods inside, if you're looking for an eclectic gift. (Of their books - of which there is a more mainstream selection - "Useful Japanese Phrases" was a highlight: we got a laugh learning how to say "I'm coming".) Unusually, there's a corner full of John Lennon-related memorabilia like a toy doll in his likeness, books, etc. which apparently aren't for sale (a friend asked). At the end of the day, a few of us emerged from the Blooming Art Gallery slightly poorer, with bags full of artsy stone animals and super stationery sheets. Worth a visit. Oh, don't bring rowdy kids in the store, as they might knock something down. read more

Blooming Art Gallery - (photographed by Dave Hong) - Art Galleries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

[ 5 ] - Friendly Staff/Owner [ 5 ] - Fairly Priced [ 5 ] - Assortments/Variety of items [ 5 ] - Location I love this store! Every time I am in LA, I have to come visit my good friend at her shop. This little Gem has everything from: Books, Art, Notes, Gifts, Figurines, clothing, home decor, tea pots, anime, I mean the list goes on and on. Yes, it's a tiny little place and very small inside. Hard to walk through especially during busy hours. I love that mostly everything is from Japan. Very creative, unique beautiful pieces. I can't stress much, to check out this little shop. There is something for everyone and something sure to catch your eye. The owner is so nice, and always is translating things for me. She explains and takes her time. Just so you know, parking can be hard to find or limited if you don't pay at the lot. You are in downtown and more than likely will have too. Once you do, you can go inside the Walkable Japanese shopping center called ( Japanese Village) where there is many stores to go eat, or shop for cool kawaii items. Def worth the time if you are in LA ( Little Tokyo District ) read more

Cute little shop that has so many knick knacks. It's just like the items you would fine in a shop in Japan. The owner was kind and knows all the ins and outs of her store (she has a lot of items). This stop has a little bit of everything so it pays to have a visit just to see what she has. read more

After walking throughout the entirety of the Japanese Village Plaza, I'd have to say that Blooming Art Gallery is probably the best store in that area for the cutest little knick-knacks and decor! My friend and I were drawn in my the huge amount of items on display outside the store. The variety of Japanese and Asian decorations was really good AND we were surprised that everything was relatively cheap! We went inside and they have a ton of merchandise everywhere. Everything ranging from toys, to stationery, to photographs/paintings, to cute mugs/bowls, and even a Beatles tribute corner in the back left of the store! It was really fun looking at all of the different things they had! The lady working in the store seemed to have ears like a hawk. Like literally my friend would be talking about a product like, "How much is this? Do you see a price tag?" and from all the way on the opposite side of the room, the woman would answer us. I was like "whaaaat how did she hear me?" Hahaha. The only reason why I can't give Blooming Art Gallery 5 stars is because it's SUPER cramped. It's really hard to navigate around the store with all of the products everywhere and lots of people going in and out. read more

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This cute little Japanese store is my latest discovery of cute little gifts. I love their stuff so much because you can't find anything like theirs very easily in regular shopping malls. They have Japanese cell phone charms, jewelry, purses, clutch handbags, fans, etc. I was in there for a good 30 minutes, and I still couldn't decide which item to get because I actually wanted to buy them all. Everything was cute and unique. This store accepts credit card for a minimum purchase of $8. When you shop here, you have to be careful when you walk around because the store is quite small, and they have A LOT of items on display. I had to be extra careful with my huge purse because I didn't want to knock anything off the shelf. read more

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Great Little Tokyo place to get traditional Japanese stuff: chop sticks, tea sets etc A Buddha altar welcomes you at the door: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/DGSSj7jRwJNuQGSh7pv59g?select=_TtO3rHSLW5j87VqVrPznQ#_TtO3rHSLW5j87VqVrPznQ The size of the store is really small, so you have to be extra-careful when walking around. During the weekends it gets too crowded, they try to make more room taking some merchandise outside, but still it gets hot and uncomfortable. Both times I have been there I was afraid of knocking off something (some of these little things are quite expensive, you don't want to knock off ANYTHING over there) In the back they also have nice John Lennon artwork and memorabilia. As well as books and posters. Cute store, kinda overpriced but you find unique/ hard-to-find stuff. Recommended if in the area :) read more

Blooming Art Gallery - Art Galleries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I was in the Japanese Village Plaza Mall for the Nisei festival and saw these Samurai statues, I have a couple of them, but they have the entire selection here. I also noticed the price was almost half of what I paid at other shops in the area. I spoke with the owner, who told me they were also a distributor and sold to the other shops, which is why their prices were the lowest. They also have a large selection of other items from Japan that are unique, as opposed to the same things that are in most of the shops. I'll definitely be back whenever I'm in the area. read more

Blooming Art Gallery - 3 of a larger collection of Samurai statues that are at Blooming Art Gallery - Art Galleries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

This shop is truly one of a kind. The owner is always there and she really cares and curates everything. There is a lot of history in the shop- she loves the Beatles! We always create cool gifts from her unique items. read more

Super cute little store in little Tokyo! Only complaint is that it is a little small inside. They have a lot of great artwork and books as well! I'm a fan of studio ghibli and they had some merch from spirited away! They also have a great selection of chopsticks and tea kettles. They had some interesting comic books and a lot of good fortune charms! Would definitely visit again! read more

When I first moved to LA, owner Nikki-san (Naoko) assisted me in both decorating my apartment and Japanese garden, plus got me into my career of choice by both encouraging me, and offering support. She is a super amazing lady and her eye for creative, stunning art and artifacts from Japan and here is without parallel. She carries original Warhols, Bob Kane, Peter Max and Sean Danconia. In addition, beautiful Bonsai imported from Japan and China at prices that are 10% or less of what you pay at Yamaguchi, etc. She is a one-man show and many people come here and steal her merchandise. Her attitude is very zen-like, I must say. And she shrugs that stuff off to their karma. If you are looking for Asian or Japanese gifts, art, etc. at excellent prices - Nikki is the person to talk to. If she seems abrupt or busy, just give her a few moments and she will make time to chat with you. read more

Adorable little shop tucked inside a downtown shopping center. When my brown thumbed-plant killing friend wanted a bonsai for Christmas, this place came thru with a nice small, cheap one, that still looks decent. The owner also has an impressive Beatles memorabilia and kitsch collection in the store, which has led to some of my frustrating moments there. I still want that Warhol soup can watch! read more

This place has horrible service. The owner ushered my daughter out of the store while she was shopping. Just because my daughter is 9 years old doesn't mean she isn't a customer. She kicked my daughter out of her store because she was a child. Very rude! She could have had a purchase from her. I will not buy anything from her store again. Besides, her merchandise is 10x over priced than Chinatown. You can go to Chinatown and buy exactly the same things she has in her store for 10 times less. Yes, every single item. Go check it out at any of the stores on Broadway. read more

Love coming to this place when I frequent Little Tokyo. It's like I'm in a cute Tokyo gift shop with all these high quality figurines and random stuff. Shelves of unique kimono material coin purses, figurines, and purses. Little ninja charms, good luck cats and frogs. Random books for bentos and origami. Stamps. It's just an all around cool place to look at. read more

Warning: dont buy anything without a clear label. I found some fabric that I liked mixed in with other fabrics. Non of the fabrics were individually labeled with a price but there were price tags on the drawers where they were located. The price tags ranged from $5 to just below $10. I figured the price had to be close to that. When I went up to pay for it, the woman told me it was $26. I was shocked. I gave her $40 cash and she gave me $11.55 back. Again I was like that's not right. I asked for a receipt, which she begrudgingly wrote by hand. Irritated she said that's because of tax and the fabrics are labeled and that she could show me if I'd like - I wish I said yes but there were people behind me in line and it felt rude. I mentioned the cheaper tags I found and that the fabrics weren't labeled. She said the one I picked was more expensive because it is rayon and the others are cotton. Rayon is not a luxury fabric. All the fabrics were small squares. The piece I picked is 12inches by 12inches. I moved through the tight crowded store and searched the area with fabrics. Nothing said $26, only $9 something max. I really wanted to like this store but I feel swindled and I wouldn't recommend getting anything that isn't clearly labeled as even the receipt is vague and just backs up them making up prices on the spot. read more

Cute shop here for sure. The prices aren't the best but it was able to help me and my beau out! My roommate helped him out with his proposal and of course we had to thank her for playing such a huge role for us! Thus we went around Japan town looking for the perfect present for her. I was getting frustrated because nothing I saw made me think, this would be perfect for her. Then we randomly went into this tiny shop and saw the cutest tea cup set! they had a good variety of gifts but nothing really stood out except for this. I was able to drink out of it during the cold winter with her and I could tell how much she appreciated it. Good thing we ran into this place or else she would have ended up with a parasol! read more

I really liked this place. In a sea of tourist traps and cafés, this place wasn't too bad. It was a mix of modern and traditional. I loved the atmosphere but the place is a bit small and cramped. Not a bad place to visit. read more

This is one of my favorite boutiques in Little Tokyo. It has many Japanese items and gifts. I'm not too sure why it's called an Art Gallery since it really isn't. They usually put things outside to lure you in. Make sure you step in since there are a variety of things inside that are not represented with the items outside. Biggest problem is that it's a really small shop and very tight. It gets crowded quickly and hard to manuver around. It's hard to walk out of the shop empty handed. read more

I went in here today. I guess I saw some John Lennon related book from outside. I was like I need to check out the price. I get inside only to find out its not for sale. I wish it wasnt being shown then. There is a big amount of John Lennon/Beatles stuff in there. I would LOVE to have some of it. Very Neat. read more

The lady who runs this gem in Little Tokyo is a gem herself. So much character, she is so sweet. I love coming here for gifts and random Japanese collectibles. You can make 5 laps around the store and still miss little surprise items. Gift fun. read more

This is a good place to look for gifts or knick-knacks for around your house. I came looking for a last-minute Christmas gift for one of my relatives and I was relieved to find they had many things that would make a great present for her. They even have a pretty prominent Beatles section, which I found surprising and sweet. The staff is a little brusk but maybe I just got them on a bad day. read more

It's a cute, kitschy shop to browse and wander gingerly through. Be very careful if you're carrying a big bag of any sort, so you don't knock over their wide assortment of giftables. It's amazing how many little knick-knacks they have stuffed into the small space. There are a lot of overpriced import goods and imitations, but there's also a lot of products you probably wouldn't find elsewhere and are worth looking over. They've done a good job of laying out their wares to catch your eye too, so beware if you're on the impulsive side. read more

Exceptional Japanese gift store. Exceptional owner. Nikki-san truly helped me in a time of need. I came to her store to find everything I needed to create a beautiful Japanese shrine/honorarium for a beloved friend's memorial service. Nikki went out of her way to offer not only the right way to do it, but was incredibly heart-felt and generous in her guidance. It's rare these days to be able to walk in to a place one has never been & be able to find such compassion, Ai, (love in Japanese) and assistance at a time of deep sadness. The store itself is amazing. It has everything! Nikki has impeccable taste in what she chooses to sell- from collectible, brilliant & unique pop-art of #HelloKitty to Japanese Kanji Banners, to (my favorite) incense (stick and cone) holders. I bought a beautiful matching set of a lotus blossoms- one for multiple sticks of Japanese incense for the alter along side one for a candle/tea light. The mediation bowls sold here are lovely as well- with a pitch perfect healing ring to them. I bought one and will be going back for another one as a gift for the holidays. I'll also be going back to pick up more Maneki Niko, or Lucky Cats. There is a great variety of these sold at The Blooming Art Gallery & they're not just cookie-cutter manufactured ones. All the ones I found in the store are with intricate detail and I know will make my friends smile to receive one. Who wouldn't love to have their own lucky yōkai? I haven't even begun to cover the vast amount of things that are here in Blooming Art Gallery- it's a definite visit for anyone visiting Little Tokyo as well as anyone in Los Angeles who would like to learn more about Japanese fine art which Nikki is an expert on and travels back and forth to Japan bringing art with her as well. Thank you for being a great person with a great store. You have an apreciative-repeat customer Nikki-san! read more

Went here over the weekend and bought some incense and some other items. Had the greatest service from Nikki! She is a wonderful lady and she treats her customers wonderfully. Love the items I purchased and I will definitely be back to shop around again! read more

Lots of cute stuff, I especially liked their prints. It's a very eclectic assortment of things that they sell here - books, prints, tea sets, origami paper and stationary, bento assembly essentials, good luck charms, small plushes....all very kawaii though, which seems to be the prevailing theme. Prices are reasonable and they accept all credit cards. Win! read more

love knick knacks? cute shit? small cute shit? keep sakes? unique and cute things? come here. read more

they have all sorts of cute stuff. It is hard not to stop by every time we visit Little Tokyo

I am not sure if the lady was the owner, but she was extremely rude to my 11 year old son! Not cool! She was standing in the open doorway and it looked to me like she was re-stocking or straightening something. My son was walking in front of me approaching the entrance to the business when the lady stuck her butt in my son's way and then in her meanest face expression leaned down to his face and said, "WE'RE NOT OPEN YET!" It appeared to me that the store was open due to the OPEN DOOR! Whoever you are, you should never speak to anyone like that, especially a child! It was his first visit to Little Tokyo. He was really excited. I have fond childhood memories shopping in J-Town with my Japanese family and wanted my son to experience the same. If you have a child or children AVOID THIS PLACE! read more

Cute, fun gift shop in Little Tokyo. Went in for a quick browse, but ended up staying longer. There's a bunch of Beatles merch and John Lennon/Yoko art on the walls. The shelves are loaded with random knick knacks. So much fun to look around and find cute little stocking stuffers and tchotchkes. We left with some cute character helper chop sticks for my nieces and nephews, and some interactive Godzilla money banks. read more

I feel like this place has many items priced fairly, while some are a bit high. Good selection, and nice display.

I really like this shop. So many beautiful things. I'm a bit bummed though cause the last few times I've gone down there they weren't open even though I went during business hours. Anyone know what's going on? read more