Malaysia’s capital is a delightful place to shop, these stores show you exactly why that is.

Despite that Kuala Lumpur doesn’t have a shortage of shopping centers and mainstream malls, these unique concept stores and local boutiques are symbolic of the city’s creative energy. From giant bookstores to handcrafted candles, these design shops take souvenir-shopping in Kuala Lumpur to a whole new level. Each displays products in its own creative sphere, depicting multicultural layers embedded within Malaysia and its diverse cultural components.

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One of the absolute coolest stores in Kuala Lumpur has to RexKL which is not only a concept store, but a cultural center with a constant shift of installations that feature various artists. On the second floor, there’s BookXcess which displays skyrocketing books from the floor. By using multidimensional design elements, the 4,000 square ft space appears to have expanded to a multi-floor 6,000 square ft of every bookworm’s haven. RexKL essentially is an artistic city pulsating inside KL, readily available for any creative to wander around then willingly get lost.

Needing some inspo for fashion accessories? Swing by Bonia inside KLCC – its flagship store – designed by London-based Oskar Kohnen who converted the 2,211 square space into a contemporary, whimsical gallery. The illuminating ceiling casts over pastel and bright furniture that exude retro yet geometrical vibes. The store is a marvel to visit, but the products are also worthy of shout-outs. From monogram handbags, meticulously cut collared shirts to floral scarves; each firmly stands as a true modernist’s dream.

Who doesn’t love a lovely scented candle? Check out Lilin + Co’s ultra cool showroom where an atelier illustrates internal processes to candle-making. The 2,300 square ft store features high-vaulted ceiling with Ol-Factory – for both storage and retail. The brand started in 2016 with a focus on artisanal craftsmanship in candle-making, creating collections of premium candles and sustainable home fragrances. The scents are bespoke, ranging from clove and cedarwood to eucalyptus and pine. The unique formulations of essential oils and natural extracts are phthalate free, so guests can enjoy beautiful aroma at accessible prices with ease.

Switching from design and accessories to coffee, stop by Momaku x Baristart Coffee in the back of Bangsar Shopping Centre, where Malaysia’s first Hokkaido-based café makes its special appearance. The 3,531 square ft space is a fusion of both indoor and outdoor areas delivers this message: buy better, buy smarter. Think artisanal marketplace with a Japanese conceptual restaurant/café, guests can browse through sustainable home accessories, cookware, and of course – fantastic coffee. Sit down, enjoy a nice meal like the Egg White Souffle, or indulge in a Kuma Parfait. That’s a lovely afternoon in KL, for sure!

Inside Pavilion Buket Jalil, you’ll definitely stumble upon Tsutaya Books – the first in Southeast Asia. For book lovers, this is an absolute dream! In addition to more than 240,000 books that cover massive walls, the store also sells artistic items in design, electronics, gardening…etc. The best part, its children’s section displays over 20,000 books in English, Chinese, Japanese, and Bahasa Melayu. The kids will adore a treehouse, or a Learning Room, where they can either read books or play with various toys. Don’t miss the bookstore café where shoppers can taste delicious Japanese treats.

For the ultimate furniture shopping in Kuala Lumpur, head over to Haus Malaysia inside Vitra – a furniture store from Switzerland where interior design fanatics will instantly be captivated by Frank Gehry Wiggle chair and the timeless Panton Chair. The store also carries iconic brands like Artek, Louis Poulsen, and Yamagiwa. It’s a much appreciated effort to infuse design and creativity as Malaysia clearly looks forward with an artistic aptitude.