The search the for the cutest summer event in L.A. will begin and end with the Rilakkuma Weekend. This "kawaii" cute bear from Japan will be joined by his super adorable seal friend Mamegoma for a pop-up shop that will feature exclusive San-X merchandise, a party, a nail salon, and food trucks throughout the weekend. In addition through August 22 find Rilakkuma limited edition merchandise at all of the Umami Burger locations. Oishi! more ›

Here at LAist, we love to shop local. This year in our "LAist Goes Shopping" series, from downtown to Abbot Kinney we found amazing things by talented independent designers, as well as vintage jewelry, Japanese housewares, and pop culture themed pop-up shops. House of Love & Luck On La Cienega next to The Roger Room and Largo at the Coronet, The House of Love & Luck is full of beautiful vintage costume jewelry. more ›

The adorable Japanese pop culture icon Rilakkuma (Relaxed Bear) is going to make his first U.S. appearance at JapanLA this Saturday night. This bear loves pancakes, so the Buttermilk Truck will be park out front to serve pancakes, waffles, donuts and more. The first 30 people wearing Christmas themed outfits will get free pancakes and there will be prizes for the most outrageous Christmas outfits. Also the first 100 people will receive San-X goody bags with a San-X purchase. Rony's Photobooth will be there to take pictures of Rilakkuma and guests. The 7 to 11 p.m. event is at Japan LA (648 North Fuller Ave.) more ›

Opening October 23, Three Apples An Exhibition celebrating 35 years of Hello Kitty will turn Royal/T into a oasis of all things super cute. Three Apples will feature art, design displays, a one-of-a-kind shop, unique products, a Hello Kitty apartment, and events for fans of all ages. The show is open to the public and free of charge. more ›

Last Thursday night a long line of fans cued up to meet local artist Buff Monster at JapanLA on Melrose at Fuller (last month, we showed you around this unique store). The event featured a hand printed t-shirt release as wells as prints, toys and stickers. Last week, the artist had a similar event at Infectious in San Francisco featuring lap top skins, wall vinyl, and car decals. JapanLA is still holding Buff Monster works while supplies last. more ›

Just south of Melrose, and around the corner from Munky King, is Japan LA, a store filled with a tribute to all things cute. more ›

Los Angeles has no shortage of amazing places to shop for toys. Whether you are shopping for a little one or a very big kid at heart, here are 5 suggestion for buying playful gifts this holiday season. more ›