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Tatami symbolize Japanese tradition and culture
The existence of tatami has made our Japanese living space rich and comfortable. Considering its characteristics and structure, tatami is more than just a flooring material. It is a living material that is made from natural materials and develops in texture over time. It has a long history and has been deeply connected to the lives of the Japanese people. Tatami is also closely associated with the traditional Japanese art form of sado (the tea ceremony). Its serenity and calmness enhance the atmosphere of the tea room and provide an ideal setting for enjoying a cup of tea. Tatami and washitsu (Japanese-style rooms) are in perfect harmony, and the combination symbolizes Japanese aesthetics and spirituality. And the value of this wonderful tatami is recognized internationally. Tatami has been registered as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO, and its importance and universality are recognized around the world.
This page introduces the charm of tatami and the deep history and culture behind it. Through each section, we hope you gain a better understanding of the world of tatami and rediscover its value.
Features of tatami
Tatami is a traditional Japanese flooring material, known for its unique texture and comfortable seating. Tatami is mainly made of natural materials such as rice straw and igusa. Tatami beri (the edges of the tatami surface) are covered with fabric and beautifully decorated. Because tatami is a natural material, it has good breathability, absorbs moisture, and has a humidity control effect. In additionally, tatami is a soft flooring surface that goes well with zabuton (cushions) and shiki futon (mattresses), providing a relaxed and comfortable space.
History of tatami
Tatami has a long history and is deeply rooted in Japanese life. Tatami originated in ancient times, with tatami first being used as a flooring material in Japanese homes more than a 1,000 years ago. Initially, tatami was a luxurious flooring material for the upper classes, such as aristocrats and temples, but it gradually spread to ordinary households. Throughout its history, tatami has been closely linked to Japanese culture and lifestyle.
Tatami structure
Tatami is made of natural materials such as rice straw and igusa, which are woven together. The structure of tatami is very intricate, and each part of the tatami surface, including the tatami beri (tatami edge), tatami omote, tatami shin (tatami core), and tatami ura (tatami back), combined in a specific procedure. The surface of the tatami is called tatami omote, on which a tatami beri is attached and is decorated with beautiful decorations. The tatami shin is the heart of the tatami, densely packed with rice straw and igusa. The tatami ura is the back side of the tatami, and serves to ensure breathability and allow moisture to escape.
Relationship with sado
Tatami is one of the most important elements of sado. In sado, tatami is used as the flooring material, on which the rituals of sado are performed. In a tea room, the arrangement and texture of the tatami expresses the taste of the tea sado, and the beauty and cleanliness of the tatami mats play an important role in creating the atmosphere of the sado space. In sado, the time spent on tatami is valued, and a unique space is created that takes full advantage of the tatami's unique features.
Harmony with Washitsu
Tatami is a flooring material that emphasizes harmony with washitsu. The interior of a washitsu is commonly centered around tatami, and the texture of the tatami creates a Japanese atmosphere. The color, pattern, and texture of the tatami determine the atmosphere of washitsu, and the beauty of the tatami greatly influences the impression of washitsu. In washitsu, a simple and calm space is created using tatami as the main theme, allowing you to experience traditional Japanese living.
UNESCO registration
The tatami production technique was registered as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage in 2018. Tatami craftsmen's skills and traditions are highly regarded worldwide, and the succession and dissemination of tatami production techniques is being promoted. The UNESCO registration contributes to the world's recognition of the cultural value and historical importance of tatami, as well as to the succession and development of tatami craftsmen's skills.
