Best Japanese Coffee Tables in 2023 – Complete Guide

Coffee tables, also known as center tables, are essential in our homes. Despite people enjoying their cup of coffee over the table, they also enhance the room’s interior décor.

A coffee table is vital in any meeting or gathering in a home. Family members, loved ones, and friends gather around a coffee table.

If you are looking for something to improve your space, a Japanese coffee table will work out great. 

Most people love Japanese coffee tables because of their uniqueness and simplicity. It is a thing to pay attention to when you want to style up your room or space.

Japanese coffee tables are usually low in height. No chairs accompany them as people use floor cushions, mats, or rugs for sitting around them.

Because of the many advantages of coffee tables from Japan, people from other cultures have embraced them.

Though these coffee tables got influenced by civilization and modernization, they still possess the traditional features. You can also find them in most furniture shops outside Japan. It also explains why the Japanese coffee tables have flooded the market.

The tables come in different shapes, sizes, designs, and color shades. As a result, finding the ideal one for your space may be a hard nut to crack.

You may find it challenging to choose the coffee table you want. But this should not make you worry because we took over the burden on ourselves and researched the top Japanese coffee tables on the market today.

In this article, the reviews of our findings shall enlighten you on the best Japanese coffee tables to buy. You will also grasp some knowledge of the table types, materials used, style, and rules used in making them. 

When purchasing the coffee tables, you will get insight into consideration factors to make the best decision.

Before we go into the reviews, let us look into why Japanese coffee tables are popular today. Why do most cultures in the world adore them? Why are these tables in most homes, restaurants, and milk tea shops? Here are the answers;

Comparison Table

You may feel like buying a Japanese coffee table or changing the one you already own after the above insight.

It may not work out when you go into the store next door and pick up any. You may end up with a Japanese coffee table that does not meet your needs and budget. Before purchasing one, you should have some things in mind.

To help you understand better, here are factors you need to consider before buying a coffee table.

Our Review of the Best Japanese Coffee Tables

1. Large Size Laptop Tray Desk NNEWVANTE Foldable Bed Table Tray – The Best Japanese Coffee Table for Laptop Use

Pros & Cons of Large Size Laptop Tray Desk

Are you tired of a bulky coffee table that cannot accommodate most tasks? The NNEWVANTE Foldable bed table tray may excite you. It comes with many uses. If you are a tech nerd and love spending time with your laptop, you will enjoy using this table.

Its large and comfortable surface supports a laptop, iPad, Mac book Arir or computer as large as 18 inches. What is more, you still get enough space to place your keyboard or a cup of your favorite drink.

Thanks to its short foldable legs, you can use the table in your bed as a bed tray. It means you can have your breakfast in bed. You can also do your work or enjoy a game on the table while still in bed. If you don’t have a TV stand, you can use this coffee table as one.

Students and educators can use this table as a book tray and a writing desk. You can also use it to serve patients or your kids. The table looks gorgeous and is long-lasting, thanks to the 100% bamboo used in its making.

Its natural color blends in well with any theme of a room. It also brings in a touch of nature, making you feel refreshed. The folding legs could fold in unexpectedly; that’s why this table comes with leg locks.

You get to enjoy your coffee or other activities on the table with no fear of toppling.

If you want the table to raise or lower a bit, you can do so by adjusting its leg height. It comes with an adjustable height range of 11 – inches to 15.75 – inches to suit your requirement.

The table is usually handmade with exquisite craftsmanship and comes with a smooth and well-finished surface. Because of its small nature, top-notch quality, and elegance, the table acts as an excellent product to give as a gift.

You don’t have to dig deeper into your pockets to own this coffee table despite its great features. It is, therefore, worth every dime used in purchasing it.

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2. ZEN’S Bamboo Small Coffee Table Square Tatami Table – The Best Japanese Coffee Table with a Storage Basket

Have you ever heard of or seen a convenient coffee table? The ZEN’S Bamboo coffee table is an excellent example. It comes with a storage basket made of canvas. Because the table is ideal to use in many ways, the canvas basket comes in handy.

If you decide to study, read, or write on this coffee table, you can store your writing and reading materials in the basket. After a delicious snack with some leftovers, you can place them in the basket to eat later.

The table also comes small and lightweight, making it easy to move it from one room to another.

If you want to relax in your bedroom, you can carry the table and put some snacks and drinks in the basket to enjoy as you rest. You can also do some other tasks on the table, like working on your computer or laptop. The multi-function ability of this table is fantastic!

What’s incredible about this table is that you can carry it outside to your favorite spot in your garden or park. You can put everything you require in the basket. Because of its short legs and small size, it’s also ideal for children to use.

Kids can sit around this table, do their homework, enjoy a meal or drink, have fun playing games, or carry out other activities. Do you love taking breakfast in bed? You can use this coffee table. It acts perfectly as a breakfast tray.

If you are cautious of the environment, note that this piece of furniture is made entirely of bamboo. 

It is therefore 100% eco-friendly. The table comes with a tool to help you assemble it. While fully assembled, it occupies less space because of its size.

Cleaning and maintaining it is a piece of cake. The price is also affordable for most users. It is a real deal for your money.

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3. Laptop Desk, NNEWVANTE Bamboo Laptop Table – The Best Japanese Coffee Table with an Adjustable Lap

Pros & Cons of Laptop Desk, NNEWVANTE Bamboo Laptop Table

Are you tired of your coffee table folding in unexpectedly, making the table topple? The damage can be much, especially if you’ve placed valuables like gadgets and laptops on the table.

But thanks to the locks that come with this table’s legs, you need not worry about that. The coffee stays still and firm at all times.

You unlock its legs only when you want to create space or store the table. Then fold the legs and place the table against the wall in an ideal place or the store. The table’s small size also helps in saving space. That’s why it’s perfect to use this table in a small area.

If you are searching for a table with multiple purposes, the NNEWVANTE bamboo table may excite you. You can use it to draw your portraits or work on your laptop or computer.

Thanks to its adjustable lap. It also helps to set your gadgets in the correct height and position for optimal comfort.

Do you love it when you take breakfast in bed? Then this coffee table got designed for you. The table’s legs fold to create a comfortable tray to serve your favorite breakfast.

Because of its low height, you may wonder if it’s suitable for you as a tall person. The answer is yes! You only need to adjust its height to your comfort level. It is ideal to use by people of all heights!

Because it comes crafted with pure bamboo, this table is lovely and of high quality. It will serve you for many years and improve the theme of your space. If you are looking for a perfect housewarming gift, this table will work out excellently.

Despite all these amazing features, maintaining this table is easy. You only need to wipe it with a damp cloth and use a clean towel to dry it over.

It also comes with a one-year warranty, guaranteeing you your money. Don’t worry about your budget; this table is pocket-friendly.

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4. Furinno Coffee Table with Bins, Espresso/Brown – The Best Rectangular Japanese Coffee Table with Bins

Pros & Cons of Furinno Coffee Table with Bins, Espresso/Brown

The table comes crafted with particleboard, making it look decent and classy. It comes either in Espresso black or brown. When placed in any space, it blends well with the interior colors and décor. The table’s attractive appearance enhances the look of your sitting room.

The non-woven bins improve the table’s look and increase its usability. You can store your small items like stationery, snacks, drinks, documents, and small gadgets. Besides, the table will not take much of your space, thanks to its small size.

You don’t have to worry about the table being unstable while using it. Thanks to its sturdy structure with firm legs. There’s a lot you can do on this table.

In addition to enjoying your favorite coffee, you can also study, work, play games, eat meals, or catch up with your friends and loved ones around this table.

Because of its lightweight, you can carry the coffee table from one place to another with ease. If you were searching for a piece of furniture to change or improve your living room’s theme, you might need to consider this coffee table.

The user is also safe with this coffee table as the edges are round, preventing any potential injury. After buying it, you will need to do some assembling. No need to worry because the table comes with assembly instructions.

Despite all these great features, you don’t need to break the bank to own one. Thanks to its friendly price. It is worth buying!

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Why Most People Embrace the Japanese Coffee Tables

It is an indisputable fact that both the Japanese and the outside world love coffee tables from Japan. Thanks to the unique elements built into them.

Other coffee tables do not have most of the features found in the Japanese coffee tables. It makes them disadvantaged against the coffee tables from Japan. The following are reasons why people choose Japanese coffee tables over general coffee tables;

I. Design

Have you ever wondered why people love giving their homes an Asian flair using Japanese coffee tables? Because they fit various themes and decorative schemes. These tables designs retain the simple Japanese styles, which are free of boredom and monotony.  

In their simplicity, the Japanese coffee tables come with a touch of modernization, enhancing their elegance and beauty. Some come with a theme of gold lotus, giving the space class and elegancy. They are also ideal for any space.

Some coffee tables portray the superb Japanese crafting used centuries ago. Such coffee tables are ideal for people who have a tooth for tradition. Others come in various shapes and finishes, making them pleasing to the eyes.

II. Materials

Would you like a piece of furniture that would last for a few months before being worn out? Most coffee table users look for quality when buying tables.

The Japanese coffee tables come crafted with top-notch wood material. The artisans choose the kind of wood to use with quality and elegance in their minds.

III. Extra Features

What differentiates a Japanese coffee table from a standard coffee table are the extra features. The simplicity of a Japanese table should not deceive you. It comes with added capabilities for easier use and optimal user experience.

For example, the table comes with short legs to help save space. Other coffee tables come with foldable legs for space creation and easier storage.

You can also expand or decrease some Japanese coffee tables’ surface area. These tables’ functionalities are many compared to ordinary coffee tables.

Because of the above reasons, you will find Japanese coffee tables in most households around the world. But most people prefer placing a Japanese coffee table in the living room of their homes. Are you wondering why?

Check out the following insight.

Why Most People Prefer Keeping the Japanese Coffee Tables in Their Living Rooms

A. Point of Connection

Inside a home, the living room is the main room where people are always there doing various activities or resting. It is the meeting room of all the people living in the house. On the other hand, a coffee table is a connection point.

The living room and the Japanese coffee table have some similarities.

People use them both to connect and engage with each other. It is, therefore, convenient and ideal to place a coffee table in the living room. People will sit around it to enjoy a drink together, communicate, work, or carry out other tasks.

B. Enhance the Look of the Room

As explained above, Japanese tables come in various beautiful and unique designs. If you want to give your sitting room a different theme, adding Japanese coffee will work out excellently.

The table’s elegance and look will also improve the appearance of your space.

Because most of them come crafted using wood, their natural color of wood blends well with any room’s interior décor and color. Other coffee tables get designed using different materials like glass and metal.

Depending on your interior decoration style, you can opt for coffee tables made with a mixture of wood and other materials or no wood at all. Such tables come with meticulous or elaborate patterns.

C. Minimal Colorful Decorative Details

Most homeowners prefer modern styles with minimal decoration for their coffee tables and the room’s interior. The Japanese coffee tables are not too eye-catching and come in simple but classic designs. The tables also consist of minimal colorful decorative details. 

Because of these reasons, most people worldwide have fallen for Japanese coffee tables.

Japanese coffee table users also love the fact that these tables come in uniform colors. You can choose the color that matches your space. Most of them consist of natural wood color or neutral colors like cream, beige, and white.

These coffee table colors coordinate excellently with other colors found in a room’s interior.

If you want your Japanese coffee table to be your living room’s highlight, use a bold-colored coffee table. Otherwise, light-colored Japanese coffee tables also look great in any living room. Avoid using coffee tables similar in color to your wall, carpet, or floor. It will make the room look monotonous.

Japanese coffee tables may have many fans, but each has a taste of a different kind. Though there are other aspects to consider, the main thing that differentiates a Japanese coffee table from another is the material used in its making.

To help you understand better, we shall look into various materials used in making a Japanese table.

Materials Used in Crafting a Japanese Table, and Where They Suit Most

When buying a Japanese coffee table, you need to be keen on the material used in its making. The material used to craft a coffee table is essential because it must match your room’s interior design.

Some materials don’t work with certain styles in a space. Check out the following materials used in making coffee tables.

You will also get insight into the best area to use a coffee table made with certain materials.

i. Wood

It is the primary material used in most Japanese coffee tables. In the past, coffee tables from Japan were crafted purely from wood.

With modernization, other materials have gotten introduced and used. Artisans of these coffee tables finish them using different styles, creating diversity.

Japanese coffee tables with lighter finishes will work like magic for those who love a modern and Scandinavian vibe.

Those that love the ancient touch will love coffee tables finished with acorn or teak. If you like the rustic, classic, or industrial vibe, coffee tables finished with dark wood are designed for you.

In industrial, rustic, or coastal spaces, coffee tables made with weathered wood will work out perfectly.

Are you an American who loves classic looks? Coffee tables from Japan finished with red tint may interest you. It works out best for those who love the American’s traditional touch.

Because of the nature-sculpt quality, coffee tables made with ornamental woods such as burl wood will give a glam or contemporary vibe. Different woods require different management and care. Consider that when choosing a wooden Japanese coffee table.

What’s impressive about a Japanese wooden table is the touch of nature and the beauty it brings into a room.

ii. Glass

The use of glass to make Japanese coffee tables was a result of modernization and civilization. The Japanese utilized wood material too much, attributing to its scarceness. Glass was easily accessible and available. Coffee tables made with glass are stylish and classy.

Glass Japanese coffee tables are ideal for contemporary aesthetics, minimal, glam, and transitional styles. These coffee tables often come with metal legs and frames. The finish on the metal dictates the kind of theme the table suits most.

Glass coffee tables are easy to maintain and clean, explaining why most users love them. But you should avoid using a candle directly on the table. Cleaning it may not be fun. Also, don’t use coasters on a glass coffee table.

Because the Glass may encounter scratches, damages, and scuffs, it would help if you placed a protector, like a mat or piece of cloth, over the Glass. You should avoid using glass coffee tables if you have kids or your room has high traffic.

The table is sensitive and may break easily, causing harm to the people around it. When broken, you, the people, or their pets may suffer severe cuts from the broken glass.

iii. Acrylic and Lucite

Japanese coffee tables made with these materials are the most modern tables on the market today. They best suit minimal and glamorous spaces. Because most of these coffee tables come in an arc shape, they are perfect for adding statements into living rooms.

The materials are usually translucent, explaining why these tables don’t add clutter or visual weight to your room. Mostly, the legs come in metal. If the metal is gold or brass, the coffee table gives an aesthetic appeal.

If you are looking for a very low-maintenance coffee table, look for one made with either Lucite or acrylic material. It is also easy to clean and suits small spaces.

iv. Metal

Japanese coffee tables made with a metal suit a transitional or industrial camp, primarily if pewter or silver metal has gotten used. Those metal coffee tables with a brass or gold finish are ideal for a glamorous or modern world.

It’s not easy to find a coffee table made entirely of metal. Mostly, metal coffee tables come paired with glass or wood elements.

The paired materials dictate the kind of interior design style to use for the table. Metal is usually sturdy and cleans reasonably easily.

As a result, such tables last for many years. Unlike the glass coffee tables, you will need to use coasters on these tables to prevent rusting.

Dust easily rests on metal and will show even the tiniest of it. You, therefore, need to dust a metal coffee table often. The same case applies to Japanese coffee tables made with acrylic or Glass.

v. Stone

Artisans use different stones to make Japanese coffee tables. But the stones used most are marbles.

Are you wondering why?

Because it looks beautiful and matches most interior design styles. Stone coffee table suits any space. They add a modern and organic touch to any living room.

You can use it in modern, minimal, glam, and other spaces. Marbles are of different types. Some are very subtle, making them ideal to use in minimal space.

Others come with white veining and are dominantly black, making them suitable for maximalist space.

Like the burl wood, the marble material used in coffee tables is a statement and ornamentation in itself. 

Despite all these great features of marble stones, their maintenance is very high. They are also very fussy. Some come with a protection material while others don’t, making them prone to scratches, stains, and water.

Stains may look ugly on a coffee table made of marble, but they disappear with time. But this won’t be the case with an acid or citrus stain. It won’t fade away but instead, eat the finish or marble. You, therefore, need to be careful while using a stone coffee table from Japan.

vi. Natural Material

You may wonder whether the stone is not a natural material. Yes, it is, but it comes with a different touch and usually gets used alone.

There are other natural materials from plants that are friendly to use around kids. If you want to add an excellent texture pop to your space or living room, placing coffee tables made with seagrass or rattan would work out perfectly.

Japanese coffee tables made from natural materials usually get used best in coastal, boho, or eclectic spaces. You can also utilize them in modern or rustic contemporary homes.

Unlike stones, the soft edges of coffee tables made from natural materials of plants are forgiving around the elderly, kids, and pets.

Maintaining such tables is a breeze. You only need to use a damp cloth to wipe down any spills or dust. It is advisable to use coasters or trays on these coffee tables for protection and a great look.

If the natural materials used in making your coffee table come woven, ensure you dust them frequently. Otherwise, dust accumulated in crannies and nooks for a long time and takes time and effort to clean.

Japanese coffee tables come in various shapes regardless of the materials used in making them. The shape of a coffee table determines the kind of theme to use. It also directs the type of activities to be carried on it.

Coffee tables are workhorses of the living rooms. Some of the things people use coffee tables for are;

• Taking drinks like coffee and tea
• Placing small items and gadgets like remote controls and flower vessels
• Working on a laptop
• Taking dinner and other meals
• Some utilize them as stools, though not recommended

Some coffee table shapes may not be ideal for doing some of the above or other tasks. That’s why a coffee table’s shape is essential to consider when buying one.

But this does not mean that some coffee shapes are bad. It means that some table forms are suitable for specific themes and tasks.

Therefore, each coffee table shape is essential. For a better understanding of this, the following are different Japanese coffee table shapes available today.

Japanese Coffee Table Shapes

a) Rectangular

The table comes rectangular. It is ideal to use when you are limited in space. At this table, you can enjoy coffee, late-night snack, or cocktail. It also makes it easy for people to walk around a room with a narrow space.

A rectangular-shaped coffee table with drawers makes it easy to store your small tech gadgets like codes, cables, and remote controls.

Sleek drawers enhance the look of such a table, which in turn improves the appearance of your sitting room.

b) Square

If you are looking for a coffee table with a conversational setup and a traditional touch, square coffee tables are the way to go. All four sides come equal, making people sitting around it come close together. It is ideal to use in a large area and fits well in an L-shaped section.

The advantage of Japanese square-shaped coffee tables over other shapes is that they offer the best styling bang in your space. Don’t you love a pretty coffee table vignette? It is a dream for every homeowner.

Some square coffee tables optimize the user experience with extra features.

Some come with drawers for storing things like catalogs, writing materials, small gadgets, and other documents. Others come crafted using a combination of materials for a better look.

c) Round

As the name suggests, these Japanese coffee tables come round in shape. They can come with a single material or a mixture of various materials for quality and elegant looks.

It is ideal for placing in a small space. The absence of the table’s corners creates the needed space in a tiny room.

If you have sofa sets with chaise in your living room, a round Japanese coffee table will be great to use. When designed with a glass tabletop, the table helps the room appear open.

A round coffee table is also fun, making it ideal for any sitting room. The appearance is sculpture-like, making it more appealing.

d) Oval

It is the best Japanese coffee table if you have kids and pets. Both love running around the house, and anything with sharp edges would pose a danger. 

They could get hurt by the sharp edges. Rooms with high traffic are also ideal for oval coffee tables. People using the space do not encounter any sharp edges that can harm them.

Japanese oval coffee tables assist with the visual flow, like a rectangular coffee tables. If used with a modern or angular sofa, the table softens it. When made with mixed materials like wood and marble, the table looks classic, improving the status of the room.

If designed using thin legs, they become light and floaty, improving their look and making it easy to carry them around.

With the above information, you may want to know the type of Japanese tables available on the market today. No need to fret; here is an insight.

Types of Japanese Coffee Tables

The type of a Japanese coffee table gets defined by its shape and the materials used in its making. As a result, the market will spoil you with options.

Each Japanese coffee table shape described above can get made using any or a combination of the above materials.

As a result, you find so many Japanese coffee table types in the market. Examples include the following;

• A round, rectangular, square, or oval glass Japanese coffee table
• A rounded, rectangular, square, or oval wooden Japanese coffee table
• A spherical, rectangular, square, or oval stone Japanese coffee table
• A spherical, rectangular, square, or oval metal Japanese coffee table
• A rounded, rectangular, square, or oval Acrylic/Lucite Japanese coffee table
• A round, rectangular, square, or oval wooden and Glass Japanese coffee table
• A round, rectangular, square, or oval glass and metal Japanese coffee table

The list of Japanese coffee table types is endless. It accommodates all preferences. You only need to choose what you want.

While making coffee tables in Japan, artisans follow set principles. That’s why Japanese coffee tables are distinctive, simple, and elegant.

The traditional aspects of making furniture in Japan are usually incorporated either fully or partially in the Japanese coffee tables.

That’s why some coffee tables come as originally made while others incorporate modern styles in their making.

For better insight, let us discuss the guidelines used in making a Japanese coffee table.

Rules for Making a Japanese Coffee Table

a. Flexibility

Japanese coffee tables usually carry out various purposes. 

Despite enjoying your cup of coffee or other drinks over it, the table acts as an aesthetic appeal in the room. You can also carry out different tasks on the table like taking a meal or playing games.

Others use the table for studying or working on their laptops.

The tables also usually come in small sizes and are made with light materials for more effortless movement. They also occupy a small space. You can quickly move them to create space.

Others come with folding legs for easier storage and space creation. By folding the table’s legs, you can make it stand against the wall to give more room for other activities.

b. Natural Touch

The Japanese value nature and showcase it in their furniture and way of life. The tables must include a natural material, either fully or partially. It is the reason most Japanese coffee tables are wooden. Others consist of stones like marble and seagrass.

The artisans also use other natural materials like bamboo, rice straw, and silk to make these tables. While in the room, the table creates a natural feeling.

If the room has additional natural elements like interior plants, the coffee table deepens the natural experience.

c. Simplicity

Simplicity has a high value in Japanese culture. That is why the Japanese make furniture to serve a specific purpose and come sparingly decorated. It is the reason artisans of the Japanese coffee tables make them with an uncluttered appearance.

d. Toned Down Colors

Japanese coffee tables come with colors of the natural materials used in their making them. It explains why most coffee tables come in shades of brown, black, gray, and white colors. You will hardly come across a coffee table with artificial colors or paints.

With the above insight into Japanese coffee tables, you may want to know the best ones on the market today. Here are the reviews of what we found as the current top coffee tables from Japan.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Japanese Coffee Table

Design

It is essential to pick a design you like. But you also need to consider the theme and size of your space. It won’t make sense to choose a large coffee table for a small space. 

Attractive designs help improve your room’s appearance. Unique coffee table styles will change or enhance the theme of your room.

Size

Before buying a coffee table, consider the number of people using it. If in a family of few people, a small one will work out great. Consider large or many coffee tables for your large family. If you frequently get visitors, you can choose a coffee table that will leave room for anyone who joins you unexpectedly.

Your space should direct you to the coffee table’s size to buy. If the room is small, go for a small table and vice versa.

Materials

As mentioned earlier, a Japanese coffee table can get crafted using various materials. If you need a super durable coffee table, consider one made with metal. Their sturdiness is incredible. For a sense of elegance and lightness, glass coffee tables are the best.

For various possibilities and finish types, wooden coffee tables would be the best option. Consider marble coffee tables for a sophisticated and classic environment.

Special Features

Coffee tables with unique characteristics come at a price but are worth every penny. If people intended to use a coffee table consisting of various heights, go for the table with an adjustable height. You can lower or increase the table’s length to suit your choice.

Other features like the ability to elevate the surface top to help gadgets like laptops or computers position correctly for easier use are fabulous.

Tables with drawers, bins, or baskets make it easy to store items used on the table for later use. Such features enhance the users’ comfort and usability.

Price

Like other items, Japanese coffee tables come at different prices. Some are expensive, while others are easily affordable. The price depends on certain factors like design, unique features, materials used, and size. A large table will cost higher than a small table.

Consider your budget before buying. Special features enhance the table’s usability. If you can meet the cost, it will be worth buying such a table. If not, consider what you can afford as long as it serves your needs.

Conclusion

Japanese coffee tables are essential for every home. As described above, they come in different designs, and sizes and come crafted using various materials. As a result, you will find them on the market with different price tags.

Most of these tables come with multiple uses, as illustrated above. Despite their simplicity, Japanese coffee tables are pleasing to look at, improving the appearance of any space.

If you want to buy one, you will need to consider the factors explained above for optimal results.