Tokyo's Furniture Scene: A Comprehensive Guide

Tokyo's furniture market is filled with traditional Japanese craftsmanship, international designs, and sustainable second-hand options. Whether you're furnishing a family home, a compact apartment, or seeking unique pieces that reflect your personal style, Tokyo offers an abundance of choices to suit every need and preference.

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Japanese Brand Furniture

Karimoku

• Type of Interior:
  Karimoku's designs epitomize a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary functionality. Their furniture showcases clean lines, natural wood finishes, and ergonomic features, making them suitable for both modern and classic interiors. The emphasis on natural materials and minimalist design reflects Japan's cultural appreciation for simplicity and nature.

• Price Range:
  Karimoku's offerings span from mid-range to luxury. For instance, dining chairs may start around ¥50,000 ($450), while premium sofas can exceed ¥500,000 ($4,500), depending on customization and materials.

• Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: Exceptional durability due to high-quality materials and craftsmanship; sustainable manufacturing practices; timeless designs that retain aesthetic appeal over time.
  • Cons: Higher price points may be a barrier for budget-conscious consumers; some designs might prioritize traditional aesthetics over ultra-modern trends.

• Location:
  Karimoku has flagship stores in Aoyama and is featured in select high-end retailers across Tokyo, including areas like Shinjuku and Ginza. Their presence in these upscale districts underscores the brand's commitment to quality and exclusivity.

• Popular Items:
  Their modular sofas, such as the "Karimoku 60" series, are particularly popular for versatility and comfort. Additionally, their dining sets, featuring meticulously crafted wooden tables and chairs, are favored for both residential and commercial spaces.

• Brand Background:
  Established in 1940, Karimoku began as a woodworking shop and has evolved into one of Japan's leading furniture manufacturers. Their commitment to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology has positioned them at the forefront of the industry, emphasizing sustainability and innovation.

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Hida Sangyo

• Type of Interior:
  Hida Sangyo specializes in furniture that highlights the natural beauty of wood. Their designs often incorporate organic shapes and textures, creating a rustic yet refined aesthetic. This approach resonates with those seeking a connection to nature within their living spaces.

• Price Range:
  Mid-to-high range. Dining chairs typically range from ¥40,000 to ¥80,000 ($360 to $720), while larger pieces like dining tables can range from ¥150,000 to ¥300,000 ($1,350 to $2,700).

• Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: Eco-friendly production methods; use of local timber supports regional economies; unique designs that stand out in the market.
  • Cons: Limited availability outside major urban centers; higher prices reflect the brand's commitment to quality and sustainability.

• Location:
  Showrooms are located in Shibuya and Shinjuku, with occasional pop-up exhibitions in various Tokyo districts, allowing customers to experience their craftsmanship firsthand.

• Popular Items:
  Their "Forest" series of dining chairs and tables, crafted from Japanese cedar and oak, are particularly esteemed for their design and sustainability.

• Brand Background:
  Founded in 1920 in the Hida region, Hida Sangyo has a rich history of craftsmanship. Their dedication to sustainable practices and utilization of local resources has made them a pioneer in eco-friendly furniture manufacturing.

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Tendo Mokko

• Type of Interior:
  Tendo Mokko is renowned for its bentwood furniture, characterized by sleek, functional, and timeless designs. Their pieces often serve as statement items in both residential and commercial settings, embodying a minimalist yet sophisticated aesthetic.

• Price Range:
  High-end. Lounge chairs can start at ¥200,000 ($1,800) and may exceed ¥600,000 ($5,400) for intricate designs. Coffee tables range from ¥150,000 to ¥350,000 ($1,350 to $3,150).

• Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: Iconic designs that have stood the test of time; unparalleled craftsmanship; pieces often appreciate in value, becoming collector's items.
  • Cons: Premium pricing limits accessibility; limited production runs can lead to availability challenges.

• Location:
  Available at select high-end stores in Ginza and Omotesando, often within specialty furniture boutiques that cater to discerning clientele.

• Popular Items:
  The "Butterfly Stool," designed by Sori Yanagi, is one of their most iconic pieces, celebrated for its elegant form and functionality.

• Brand Background:
  Established in 1940, Tendo Mokko has collaborated with renowned designers to produce furniture that combines traditional Japanese techniques with modern design principles, earning international acclaim.

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Journal Standard

• Type of Interior:
  Journal Standard offers a mix of vintage and industrial-inspired furniture. Their designs often incorporate rugged materials like metal and reclaimed wood, creating a rustic yet stylish aesthetic. This brand is ideal for those seeking a laid-back, urban vibe in their home decor.

• Price Range:
  Mid-range to high-end. Dining chairs typically range from ¥15,000 to ¥40,000 ($135 to $360), while larger items such as sofas and dining tables can go from ¥50,000 to ¥150,000 ($450 to $1,350).

• Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: Unique designs with a distinct urban style; high-quality craftsmanship; durable materials.
  • Cons: Higher price points compared to other lifestyle brands; limited product range focused on a specific aesthetic.

• Location:
  Flagship stores can be found in Shibuya and Shinjuku, along with other select locations in Tokyo.

• Popular Items:
  Their vintage-style sofas, reclaimed wood tables, and industrial-inspired shelving units are particularly popular among urban dwellers.

• Brand Background:
  Journal Standard is part of Baycrews Group, a well-known fashion and lifestyle company in Japan. Their home line emphasizes individuality and quality, bringing a fresh perspective to contemporary interiors.

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Nitori

• Type of Interior:
  Nitori offers a wide range of furniture and home accessories that cater to diverse interior styles, from minimalist and contemporary to functional and practical designs. Their products are versatile and ideal for urban living spaces.

• Price Range:
  Affordable. Dining chairs start at ¥5,000 ($45), while sofas range from ¥20,000 to ¥60,000 ($180 to $540). Beds can range from ¥15,000 to ¥50,000 ($135 to $450).

• Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: Affordable pricing without compromising quality; extensive product variety; convenient store locations and online shopping options.
  • Cons: Some designs may lack uniqueness; limited customization options compared to bespoke furniture makers.

• Location:
  Nitori stores are widely available in Tokyo, including popular areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro.

• Popular Items:
  The N-Cool bedding series for summer and their space-saving storage solutions are among the bestsellers.

• Brand Background:
  Established in 1967, Nitori has grown into Japan’s largest furniture retailer, with over 900 stores globally. Known for its slogan “Design that’s worth more than the price,” Nitori emphasizes affordability and functionality.

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LOWYA

• Type of Interior:
  LOWYA focuses on modern and practical designs that cater to urban and small-space living. Their furniture often incorporates contemporary aesthetics, clean lines, and multi-functional features.

• Price Range:
  Affordable to mid-range. Sofas range from ¥20,000 to ¥50,000 ($180 to $450), while beds are priced between ¥25,000 and ¥70,000 ($225 to $630).

• Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: Stylish designs at reasonable prices; space-saving options for small apartments; easy online shopping experience.
  • Cons: Products are primarily available online, making it difficult to inspect items before purchase; some assembly may be required.

• Location:
  As an online retailer, LOWYA operates through its e-commerce platform with delivery services throughout Tokyo.

• Popular Items:
  Modular sofas, compact dining sets, and minimalist-style TV stands are among their bestsellers.

• Brand Background:
  LOWYA is a brand under VEGA Corporation, a leading e-commerce company in Japan. The brand focuses on delivering trendy, high-quality furniture at affordable prices, catering to young professionals and families.

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Muji

• Type of Interior:
  Muji is synonymous with minimalist and functional furniture, emphasizing simplicity and practicality. Their designs often feature natural materials and neutral tones, creating a calm and timeless aesthetic.

• Price Range:
  Affordable to mid-range. Storage solutions start around ¥2,000 ($18), while sofas range from ¥30,000 to ¥100,000 ($270 to $900), depending on the model and customization.

• Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: Budget-friendly; versatile designs; sustainable materials; wide availability across Tokyo.
  • Cons: Limited uniqueness in designs; some furniture may not cater to those seeking luxury or ornate styles.

• Location:
  Muji stores are located throughout Tokyo, with flagship locations in Ginza and Shibuya.

• Popular Items:
  Their modular storage systems, bean bag chairs, and compact dining tables are especially popular among city dwellers.

• Brand Background:
  Muji, short for “Mujirushi Ryohin” (no-brand quality goods), was founded in 1980. The company emphasizes a “no-frills” approach, delivering high-quality, affordable products that prioritize functionality over branding.

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... (Continues with International Furniture Brands and their sections)

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International Furniture Brands

BoConcept

• Type of Interior:
  BoConcept specializes in Scandinavian-inspired designs with a focus on sleek, contemporary furniture. Their collections often feature clean lines, neutral tones, and modular pieces, making them ideal for urban living spaces and modern aesthetics.

• Price Range:
  Mid-to-high range. Sofas range from ¥200,000 to ¥500,000 ($1,800 to $4,500), while dining chairs are priced between ¥30,000 and ¥70,000 ($270 to $630).

• Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: Customizable designs; premium materials; professional interior design services available.
  • Cons: High price points; some items require waiting periods as they are made to order.

• Location:
  BoConcept stores are located in key areas such as Minami-Aoyama, Shinjuku, and Nihonbashi, offering convenient access to their wide range of products.

• Popular Items:
  Modular sofas like the "Indivi" series and extendable dining tables such as the "Santiago" model are customer favorites.

• Brand Background:
  Founded in Denmark in 1952, BoConcept is a global leader in urban furniture, focusing on creating stylish, functional, and high-quality pieces tailored for city living.

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Hay

• Type of Interior:
  Hay offers contemporary furniture with a Scandinavian flair. Their designs often incorporate innovative forms, bold colors, and functional elements, appealing to those seeking modern and creative interiors.

• Price Range:
  Mid-to-high range. Dining chairs are priced between ¥25,000 and ¥50,000 ($225 to $450), while sofas range from ¥200,000 to ¥400,000 ($1,800 to $3,600).

• Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: Unique, design-focused furniture; excellent craftsmanship; wide range of accessories.
  • Cons: Limited availability in Tokyo; higher price points.

• Location:
  Hay’s Tokyo showroom is located in Omotesando within the GYRE building, offering a curated selection of their latest collections.

• Popular Items:
  The "About A Chair" series and the "Mags" modular sofa are highly sought after for their style and versatility.

• Brand Background:
  Established in 2002 in Denmark, Hay combines innovative design with practical functionality, creating furniture that reflects modern living.

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Herman Miller

• Type of Interior:
  Herman Miller is synonymous with ergonomic and modern office furniture. Their products are designed for comfort and innovation, making them a top choice for professional and home office setups.

• Price Range:
  High-end. Task chairs like the "Aeron" range from ¥150,000 to ¥250,000 ($1,350 to $2,250), while the "Eames Lounge Chair" is priced above ¥500,000 ($4,500).

• Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: Superior ergonomic designs; exceptional build quality; iconic pieces that retain value over time.
  • Cons: Expensive; primarily focused on office and select home furniture.

• Location:
  Herman Miller products are available in Tokyo at select retailers, including stores in Marunouchi and Minato.

• Popular Items:
  The "Aeron Chair" is renowned for its ergonomic support, while the "Eames Lounge Chair" is an iconic staple of mid-century design.

• Brand Background:
  Founded in 1905 in the United States, Herman Miller is a pioneer in innovative furniture, revolutionizing the office space with its ergonomic designs.

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IKEA

• Type of Interior:
  IKEA is known for its functional, modern furniture with a focus on affordability. Their designs embrace Scandinavian minimalism, offering practical solutions for contemporary and traditional interiors alike.

• Price Range:
  Budget-friendly. Dining chairs start as low as ¥2,000 ($18), while sofas typically range from ¥20,000 to ¥80,000 ($180 to $720).

• Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: Affordable pricing; extensive product variety; flat-pack designs for easy transportation; inspiring showroom displays.
  • Cons: Some products may require assembly; durability varies across product lines.

• Location:
  IKEA stores in Tokyo include Shibuya, Harajuku, and Tachikawa, offering convenient access and unique shopping experiences.

• Popular Items:
  The "KALLAX" storage series and modular sofas like the "KLIPPAN" are well-loved for their affordability and practicality.

• Brand Background:
  Founded in 1943 in Sweden, IKEA has become a global household name, offering affordable furniture and emphasizing sustainability and design innovation.

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Artek

• Type of Interior:
  Artek blends modernism with functionality, offering minimalist furniture rooted in Scandinavian design. Their pieces often incorporate natural materials and innovative construction techniques.

• Price Range:
  Mid-to-high range. Dining chairs are priced between ¥30,000 and ¥100,000 ($270 to $900), while tables and larger furniture pieces range from ¥200,000 to ¥600,000 ($1,800 to $5,400).

• Pros and Cons:

  • Pros: Timeless, high-quality designs; strong focus on sustainability and craftsmanship.
  • Cons: Limited product availability in Tokyo; higher prices compared to mass-market brands.

• Location:
  Artek’s products are available in high-end design stores in areas like Omotesando and Aoyama.

• Popular Items:
  The "Stool 60" by Alvar Aalto is an iconic piece celebrated for its simplicity and versatility.

• Brand Background:
  Established in Finland in 1935 by Alvar and Aino Aalto, Artek continues to create innovative furniture that merges art and technology, maintaining its place as a leader in Nordic design.

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Conclusion

Furniture is more than just functional—it’s the key to transforming a house into a home. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of Japanese craftsmanship, the innovative designs of Scandinavian brands, or the sustainable charm of second-hand finds, Tokyo’s furniture market has something for everyone. Each piece tells a story, reflects your personality, and adds character to your living space.

As you explore these incredible options, remember that a beautiful home starts with the perfect setting.

Need a new house for your new furniture? Contact us today and let us help you find the ideal space to turn your vision into reality.