Tired of the same old furniture from big-box stores? Craving something unique and stylish? Look no further than Meguro-dori Avenue, a vibrant boulevard just a stone’s throw from Meguro Station. This haven for furniture enthusiasts boasts a captivating collection of vintage and contemporary furniture stores, offering a delightful mix of styles and eras.
While some stores might tempt you with pricey pieces, Meguro-dori is an inviting destination even if you’re not in the market for a new couch. Just a leisurely stroll along the street can spark your creativity and inspire you to reimagine your home.
Finding Your Way to Interior-dori
Getting to this haven, affectionately known as “Interior-dori,” is a breeze. If you’re arriving on the Namboku, Mita, or Tokyu Meguro Line, simply exit Meguro Station and turn left. For those arriving on the JR Yamanote Line, head right out of the west exit and cross the street towards Palette Plaza. Follow the downhill slope, keeping the traffic on your right, and you’ll find St. Marc Café on your right and Big Echo/Pikaso (a mini Don Quijote) on your left.
You’ll know you’re getting closer when you spot a temple on your right after about a 10-minute walk. That’s where the furniture stores begin, starting with Acme and Karf on your left. This exciting stretch of shops, brimming with unique finds, continues all the way to Claska Hotel. Alternatively, you could begin your journey at Claska, a mere 10-minute walk from Gakugei-daigaku Station (Tokyu-Toyoko Line). The entire furniture haven stretches for 1.3 kilometers (0.8 miles), taking approximately 15 to 20 minutes to explore at a leisurely pace.
Treasures to Discover: A Curated Guide to Meguro-dori’s Furniture Gems
Let’s begin our furniture adventure, starting at Meguro Station and making our way towards Claska Hotel.
Acme: This three-story haven of American vintage delights will capture your heart with its eclectic collection of furniture and decorative items. From classic Americana to custom pieces inspired by vintage styles, Acme offers something for every taste.
Karf: If minimalist contemporary furniture speaks to your soul, then Karf is a must-visit. This shop features stunning custom pieces, showcasing sleek lines and refined craftsmanship. You’ll also find beautiful ceramics and household goods to complete your minimalist vision.
COLT: Step across the street from the Parasitological Museum (more on that later!) and you’ll find COLT, easily recognizable by its red awning. Here, you’ll discover vintage furniture alongside captivating accessories, including vintage travel pamphlets, maps, and even old Polaroid cameras.
Lewis: Step into a cozy two-room store brimming with Scandinavian charm at Lewis. Immerse yourself in the world of 1960s and 1970s Scandinavian design, where simple, elegant wooden furniture takes center stage.
Point No. 38 & Point No. 39: These sister lighting stores offer more than just illumination. They also house an eclectic mix of antique and vintage furniture, decorative items, and even light bulbs and parts to create your own custom lamps, including trendy Edison bulbs.
Kakinokizaka Takumi: Experience the artistry of Asahikawa wood craftsmanship at Kakinokizaka Takumi. This store features contemporary furniture with a playful touch, showcasing whimsical pieces like animal-inspired stools and mushroom-shaped seats.
Article: Step into a world of imported European vintage at Article. This store boasts an array of decorative items and furniture, including contemporary vintage-style sound systems and custom-order pieces.
Brunch: Located just a block off Meguro-dori, Brunch offers a haven of Nordic-inspired wooden furniture with sleek, clean lines. Most items are custom-made, and the store’s collection spans across four floors.
Aston Garret Room: A sister store to Point No. 38 and Point No. 39, Aston Garret Room (previously Chambre de Nîmes) offers an eclectic mix of antique and vintage furniture, lighting, and decorative items. The store has moved a few blocks north from its original location on Meguro Dori.
More Than Just Furniture: Exploring Meguro-dori’s Hidden Gems
Meguro-dori isn’t just about furniture, it’s an experience. While you’re browsing for your next home treasure, be sure to check out these gems along the way:
Gekko: This haven for music lovers boasts an impressive collection of records (around ¥700 each) and reasonably priced secondhand items, including guitars, clothing, and housewares.
Hara Donuts: Take a break from your shopping spree with a tasty donut (around ¥150) and a refreshing drink (around ¥300) at Hara Donuts. The second floor offers a cafe space, complete with bathrooms and water.
Parasitological Museum: This unique museum, dedicated to parasites, is a fascinating peek into the microscopic world. The small two-story space is free to enter, and you can find more information online.
Good Morning Tokyo (GMT): This shop, started by a long-term American resident in Japan after discovering the weight-loss benefits of muesli, sells handmade granola. Don’t be shy – ask for a sample!
Geographica: Delve into the world of antiques at Geographica, which features an impressive four-story collection. The second floor boasts an Italian-themed cafe/restaurant, offering delicious meals, desserts, and drinks.
Laundry Cafe: This unique concept combines a laundromat and dry cleaner with a cafe space, free wifi, and a selection of household products.
Claska: Claska is more than just a hotel; it’s a vibrant destination with a cafe/restaurant, a shop, and a rooftop deck with stunning views. The cafe/restaurant serves modern French-inspired cuisine, and the shop features an eclectic collection of clothing and housewares.
Kanno Coffee: For coffee aficionados, a short walk past Claska leads you to Kanno Coffee, which offers premium hand-drip coffee in a stylish industrial design space. A limited selection of sandwiches and snacks is also available.
Meguro-dori Avenue: A Journey for the Senses
Meguro-dori is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a sensory journey. Whether you’re searching for unique furniture, exploring hidden gems, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, Meguro-dori is a place that will captivate your imagination. So, grab your walking shoes and prepare to be inspired!
