Looking for a cute place in Ohio where you can buy adorable and authentic Japanese merchandise, while being around like minded people? You’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll explore the new Doki Doki Kawaii Shop which is hands down the cutest place to visit in Lakewood, Ohio.
It’s been less than two weeks since Doki Doki Kawaii Shop had their grand opening. “Doki doki” is a Japanese onomanatopoeia for the sound your heart makes when it beats at a fast pace; for example, when you’re excited. “Kawaii” is the Japanese word for cute. With so much cuteness packed inside, the place really lives up to its name!
When I entered through the pastel pink door, the sound of popular anime intros filled the air. This will make any weeb feel right at home. As I looked around in awe, I saw shelves filled with character plushies, anime figures, manga, Japanese snacks and stationary and tons more. This shop really is a kawaii paradise!
There’s even a small Magical Girls corner in the back of the shop that has a couch along with a Sailor Moon neon light hung on the wall. Anyone is welcome to come here after school to do some homework or after work to relax and read some manga. It really has such a cozy and chill vibe.
While I was there, I had the chance to personally sit down and chat with the shop owner, Ami Rizek. Ami is so adorable, friendly, and personable. Ami told me about how her love for kawaii culture and Japanese anime started when she was in the fifth grade and she was introduced to Sailor Moon and Cardcaptor Sakura.
Ami grew up in Lakewood and it’s her home. Owning her own kawaii shop has been a dream of Ami’s for awhile and she finally made it come true. Ami wanted her shop to be in her hometown so she could give back to her community by creating a space that’s centered around friendship and self care.
The goal with Doki Doki Kawaii Shop is, “for it to be a place that women will come to and feel safe. Of course everyone is welcomed here. But currently there aren’t any cute places around here that focus on kawaii culture and anime/manga that women can go to and be around like minded women. Hopefully Doki Doki Kawaii Shop can be that place.”
One thing I’m super excited for is that Ami mentioned she plans to host events at her shop. Particularly a Magical Girl Potion Making class and Kawaii Tarot Card Readings which will use Clow Cards. Magical Girls is very dear to Ami’s heart and she wants to let anyone who’s interested have the opportunity to experience being a Magical Girl.
I’m so happy that Doki Doki Kawaii Shop is not far from where I live because I definitely plan to stop in frequently so I can see all the new merchandise they have while getting to visit my new friend, Ami.
If you’re like me and you’ve been waiting for a cute place to open up around Cleveland that is designated to all things kawaii, you won’t want to pass up Doki Doki Kawaii Shop the next time you’re in Lakewood!
Lindsey is an Ohio native who loves exploring all the cute places she can find. While visiting other cities and countries, she tries to uncover their hidden and unique gems. When she’s not exploring, you can find her eating cute desserts and taking cat naps in her free time.