When you think of a bed, what comes to mind? A large, fluffy mattress with a towering headboard, perhaps? Or maybe a sleek, modern platform bed? In Japan, however, the traditional sleeping arrangement is quite different: a Japanese futon floor mattress.
A Japanese futon floor mattress is a thin, foldable mattress that is placed directly on the floor. It is typically made from cotton and wool and is covered with a fabric known as “shikibuton.” A shikibuton is a type of traditional Japanese bedding that is made from cotton and is used as a mattress cover. It is often paired with a “kakebuton,” which is a quilt that is used as a blanket.
While the concept of sleeping on a Japanese futon floor mattress might seem foreign to those in the West, it is actually deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of the Japanese futon, as well as the benefits of sleeping on one.
The History of the Japanese Futon
The origins of the Japanese futon can be traced back to the Jomon period, which began around 14,000 BCE. During this time, people would sleep on a “tatami,” which is a type of mat made from woven rush grass. The tatami was placed directly on the ground, and people would sleep on top of it with a “makura,” or pillow, made from wood or stone.
Over time, the tatami evolved into a larger and more complex structure, with layers of woven straw and compressed wood chips. By the Muromachi period (1336-1573), this mat had become a common household item, and it was often used as a seating area during the day and as a sleeping area at night.
It wasn’t until the Edo period (1603-1868), however, that the modern Japanese futon floor mattress as we know it today began to emerge. During this time, urbanization led to smaller living spaces, and the traditional tatami room became a luxury that many could not afford. As a result, people began to look for alternatives to the large tatami room, and the futon became an attractive option.
The first futons were simply a padded mat that was laid on top of the tatami at night and then rolled up and put away during the day. Over time, however, the futon evolved to become a more complex and versatile piece of furniture. By the late Edo period, the futon had become a multi-layered mattress that could be easily folded and stored in a closet during the day, freeing up valuable living space.
Why Japanese People Prefer the Futon Floor Mattress
So why do Japanese people prefer to sleep on a futon floor mattress? There are several reasons:
- It’s Space-Saving: As mentioned earlier, the futon floor mattress was originally developed as a space-saving alternative to the traditional tatami room. Even today, with larger living spaces being more common in Japan, the futon remains a popular choice for those who want to maximize their living space.
- It’s Comfortable: While the futon floor mattress may not be as soft as a traditional Western-style mattress, many people find it to be just as comfortable. In fact, some people prefer the firmness of a futon, as it provides better support for the back and spine.
- It’s Easy to Clean: Unlike a traditional mattress, which can be difficult to clean and maintain, a Japanese futon floor mattress is easy to care for. The shikibuton cover can be removed and washed, and the futon itself can be aired out and sun-dried to keep it fresh and clean.
- It’s Versatile: One of the great things about a Japanese futon floor mattress is its versatility. It can be easily folded up and stored away during the day, freeing up valuable living space. It can also be used as a seating area during the day, either by itself or with a “zabuton,” which is a small cushion used as a seat.
- It’s Traditional: For many Japanese people, sleeping on a futon floor mattress is simply a matter of tradition. It is a practice that has been passed down through the generations, and it is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. Many people feel a sense of comfort and familiarity when they sleep on a futon, as it reminds them of their childhood or their grandparents’ home.
The Benefits of Sleeping on a Japanese Futon Floor Mattress
In addition to the reasons listed above, there are several other benefits to sleeping on a Japanese futon floor mattress:
- Better Posture: Sleeping on a futon floor mattress can help to improve your posture, as it provides firmer support for your back and spine. This can be especially beneficial for people who suffer from back pain or other spinal issues.
- Improved Sleep Quality: Many people find that they sleep better on a futon floor mattress. This is likely due to the fact that the firmer support provided by the futon helps to keep the spine in alignment, which can reduce tossing and turning during the night.
- Reduced Allergies: Traditional Western-style mattresses can be a breeding ground for dust mites and other allergens. A Japanese futon floor mattress, on the other hand, can be easily aired out and sun-dried, which helps to reduce the buildup of allergens.
- More Energy: Some people find that they feel more energized after sleeping on a futon floor mattress. This is likely due to the improved sleep quality and better posture provided by the futon.
- Eco-Friendly: A Japanese futon floor mattress is a more eco-friendly option than a traditional Western-style mattress. It requires less material to produce, and it can be easily recycled or repurposed at the end of its life.
Summary
The Japanese futon floor mattress is a unique and traditional sleeping arrangement that has been a part of Japanese culture for centuries. While it may not be as soft and luxurious as a traditional Western-style mattress, it offers a number of benefits, including better posture, improved sleep quality, and reduced allergens. For those who are looking for a space-saving, versatile, and eco-friendly alternative to a traditional mattress, the Japanese futon floor mattress is definitely worth considering.