Tatami, as one of the symbols of Japanese homes, has a long history. The surface of tatami, woven from rush grass, is soft and comfortable. Its unique fragrance can calm the mind, providing a space for family members to relax and unwind.
Tatami is not just a flooring material; it is a product born from Japan's climate and accumulated living experiences over time. Through this article, we hope you can feel the charm of tatami and the profound essence of Japanese culture.
The Origin of Tatami
The term 'tatami' first appeared in Japan's oldest historical record, the Kojiki. According to records, tatami has been used since the Nara period. In the Shosoin, built during the Nara period, the oldest known tatami in Japan, called 'Mitoko Tatami,' was discovered. This tatami was used as the emperor's bedding.
From the Kamakura period to the Muromachi period, residential structures changed, and tatami gradually became a flooring material. During the Momoyama period to the Edo period, the tea ceremony became popular, and the sukiya-zukuri style of architecture became mainstream. Tea rooms were introduced, making tatami even more widespread. By the mid-Edo period, tatami craftsmen emerged, and the manufacturing techniques of tatami made significant progress.
In the Showa period, many houses and apartments were completed during the construction boom. Today, many homes still have tatami rooms, which signifies that even after more than a thousand years, tatami remains an indispensable part of Japanese life.
Structure and Dimensions of Tatami
Tatami, once a flooring material exclusive to nobility, has gradually become widely used in ordinary households over time. Here is an introduction to the structure and dimensions of tatami.
Tatami consists of three parts: the tatami-omote (surface), tatami-doko (core), and tatami-fuchi (edge)
Tatami mats are made up of the following three structures.
(1) Tatami-omote (Surface) The tatami-omote is the mat woven from the stems of rush grass, covering the surface of the tatami. There are various weaving methods for the tatami-omote, including the common plain weave and the checkered pattern of ichimatsu tatami-omote. The quality and texture of the tatami-omote vary depending on the origin of the rush grass. Japanese rush grass is known for its excellent elasticity, durability, and resistance to collapse.
(2) Tatami-doko (Core) The tatami-doko is the foundation of the tatami, traditionally made from compressed layers of dried straw. This structure provides good elasticity and has the effects of regulating humidity and insulation.
(3) Tatami-fuchi (Edge) The tatami-fuchi is the fabric edge of the tatami, which protects the tatami and fills the gaps between tatami mats. While its primary purpose is to protect the tatami, the design of the tatami-fuchi used to vary according to social status. Nowadays, there are both patterned and plain options available.
In addition to traditional tatami made from rush grass and straw, modern tatami made from materials like polypropylene and polystyrene have also emerged in recent years.
Tatami comes in various sizes and can be chosen according to its intended use.
The names and dimensions of tatami vary slightly depending on the region. The table below summarizes some types of tatami.
The most common tatami size is Edoma, while the smallest tatami size is Danchima. The dimensions of tatami, to some extent, reflect the lifestyle of each region.
Main Materials of Tatami
As Japanese lifestyles have evolved, tatami has also continuously innovated. The materials used for modern tatami surfaces generally fall into three categories:
● Rush grass
● Washi paper
● Resin
In addition to traditional rush grass, tatami can also be made from washi paper or highly durable resin.
Furthermore, while tatami cores were traditionally made from straw, some modern tatami cores use polystyrene or wood. Modern tatami maintains traditional elements while also considering the needs of contemporary homes.
The Process of Making Tatami Surfaces Using Rush Grass:
(1) Dividing Seedlings Carefully separate healthy seedlings one by one from the seedbed.
(2) Planting Plant the seedlings in winter, either by hand or using machinery.
(3) Topping In early May, cut off the tops of the rush grass to allow sunlight to reach the roots, promoting the growth of new shoots.
(4) Harvesting From mid-June, harvest the well-grown rush grass.
(5) Mud Dyeing To give the rush grass its unique color and fragrance, dye it using natural dyes.
(6) Drying Dry the rush grass either by machine or by sun-drying.
(7) Weaving Select rush grass based on its length and thickness, and weave it using machinery.
(8) Completion Inspect each tatami surface individually to complete the production.
Each tatami surface uses over 4,000 rush grass stems. It requires a significant amount of labor and time to produce a single tatami mat.
The Calming Fragrance of Tatami
The fragrance of tatami comes from its main material, rush grass. The scent of rush grass contains an aromatic component called "phytoncide." This component is produced by plants and trees, making one feel as if they are in a forest. Therefore, in a room with tatami, even indoors, you can feel as relaxed as if you were in a forest.
Tatami also has the following effects:
● Air purification
● Humidity control
● Insulation
Tatami is not just a flooring material; it also has the function of creating a space that heals the mind and provides comfort.
Experience Japanese culture and tradition on tatami!
Tatami, nurtured in the climate and history of Japan, offers a comfortable sensory experience.
At "HOTEL WAMARE ONIKOUBE," there is a high-quality tatami space made by the local tatami workshop "Sosouan." Please be sure to personally experience the texture and fragrance of tatami and savor its charm.
This article provides an overview of the history, structure, materials, and functions of tatami. Through this article, you will discover the charm of tatami deeply rooted in Japanese life.
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