Artek:

Timeless Scandinavian Design in Harajuku

〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya, Jingumae, 5 Chome−9−20 1F･B1F

May 12, 2025

Just a short walk from Meiji-Jingumae Station and tucked behind the buzz of Cat Street, Artek Tokyo Store is one of Harajuku’s most refined hidden gems. As the brand’s first and only standalone store in Japan, this space brings together the timeless simplicity of Finnish modernism with a touch of contemporary Tokyo. Whether you’re a design lover, architecture nerd, or just browsing for beautiful home objects, Artek Tokyo is well worth a visit.

A Legacy of Design Excellence

Artek was founded in 1935 in Helsinki by four forward-thinking creatives, including architect Alvar Aalto and his wife, designer Aino Aalto. Their vision was to bring modern design to everyday life through objects that were not only beautiful, but also functional and long-lasting.

Best known for its bentwood furniture, especially the iconic Stool 60, Artek has remained a cornerstone of Scandinavian design. But what sets the brand apart is its commitment to crafting interiors that are warm and human — a counterpoint to the cold minimalism often associated with modernist design.

Artek in Harajuku: More Than Just a Furniture Store

Opened in 2019, Artek Tokyo Store is located in a quiet neighborhood, in a space right beneath Palace Skateboards that fits seamlessly into its Harajuku surroundings. Unlike the grand, polished showrooms you might find in Aoyama or Omotesando, Artek’s Tokyo location is calm, warm, and full of quiet charm.

Inside, you’ll find a curated selection of furniture, lighting, and smaller lifestyle goods. Signature pieces like the Stool 60 and Paimio Chair are displayed alongside accessories like vases, tableware, and handcrafted textiles. 

Even if you’re not in the market for a sofa, Artek Tokyo is worth visiting for the atmosphere alone. On the basement floor, you’ll find a striking wall of chairs, each displayed in its own individual cubby — almost like functional art. While the space isn’t huge, it’s thoughtfully laid out, with small vignettes like a living room setup, dining table arrangement, and work desk corner, offering plenty of inspiration for how to incorporate Artek’s designs into everyday life.