One of our favorite things about shopping local in Oakland is “discovering” the shops that have been around forever. Sometimes we go in search of such shops. Other times, we just happen to be walking by. This is a story about the latter.
It was a beautiful young Spring day in Oakland when I took some friends of LOCALMOTIV out to explore Rockridge. We nearly walked by Murasaki Fine Futon Shop. After all, none of us were in the market for a fine Futon. But our window observations suggested that there was much more to this establishment. Anita and Shireen asked me about the shop assuming that they were on the LOCALMOTIV radar. It was as new for me as it was for them.
Much to our surprise, we found out that this hidden gem in plain sight–that I was not previously aware of–is a family owned and run business. In fact, it has been in the neighborhood for 35 years!
And, yes, they have fine futons, much nicer than the ones we used to have. But they have so much more as well. The shop is a treasure trove of Japanese furniture, housewares, accessories, and gifts. It’s a celebration of Japanese style and culture. And the employee on site that day, Julie, was so sweet and knowledgeable. I could see that she would be a pleasure to do business with. We fell in love with her “customers are family” approach. So Shireen splurged on some Japanese bowls, cups and paper.
This store is one of the reasons we love to shop in Oakland so much. We are lucky enough to still have proprietors that have been around for decades. And they are all ready to be discovered.
More About Murasaki Fine Futon Shop
What they offer: a treasure trove of Japanese furniture, futons, bamboo screens and other bambooware, houseware, accessories, pillows, fabrics, and gifts. It’s a celebration of Japanese style and culture.
Address: 6050 College Ave, Oakland, CA
Phone: (510) 547-6252
Instagram: NA
Website: www.murasaki-oakland.com/
Neighborhood: Rockridge
