Introduction | Why Do We Continue to Use
In Japan's real estate market, the units "tsubo" and "tatami" are commonly used. But when and how did these units come into existence, and why do they continue to persist in modern real estate transactions? This article delves into the historical background and origins of "tsubo" and "tatami," compares them with area units used abroad, and explains why they are still in use today.
1. The Origin of
Originally, "tatami" was used as bedding and floor coverings, but from the Muromachi period onward, they began to be laid out throughout rooms, particularly in samurai residences.
① The Relationship Between the Class System and
During the Edo period, the size of rooms and the number of tatami mats were determined according to the status of the samurai class.
• Daimyo's living quarters: ten tatami mats or more
• Mid-ranking samurai's room: six tatami mats
• Common people's tenement: 4.5 tatami mats
Thus, the number of tatami mats served not just as a measure of room size but also functioned as a "symbol of status."
② The Size of Tatami Varies Across Japan!
In fact, the size of tatami mats differs by region. If you imagine the size based solely on the notation of "X tatami" in real estate advertisements, there may be discrepancies with the actual size. For example, even if someone says, "6 tatami mats," there can be a significant difference in area between the Kyoto-style and the apartment-style tatami, so caution is needed.
2. The Birth of
The unit "tsubo" was originally used to measure the area of rice fields. One tsubo is approximately 3.3 square meters (equivalent to two tatami mats) and is widely used in construction and real estate transactions.
The Establishment of
During the Meiji era, when Western architecture was introduced, Japan adopted the metric system while still retaining the traditional "shakkanhō" (shaku, sun, tsubo) for measuring land and building sizes.
As Western-style architectural planning progressed, a common unit to indicate the size of land and buildings became necessary, leading to the establishment of "tsubo" as the standard unit.
3. Differences Between Global Area Units and
In Japan, "tsubo" and "tatami" are the mainstream units, but different area units are used in the global real estate market.
In particular, South Korea uses the same unit "pyong" (tsubo), which is also common in its real estate market. Meanwhile, in Europe and the U.S., "square meters" and "square feet" are the standard units.
4. Why Do
① Easy to Intuitively Imagine Size
When someone says, "a 10-tsubo living room," it is easy to visualize, but if they say, "a 33-square-meter living room," many might not have a clear picture. In Japan, "tatami" and "tsubo" are deeply rooted in culture, making it easier to grasp the size intuitively, which is why they are still in use today.
② Strong Traditions in the Real Estate Industry
Even now, "tsubo" and "tatami" are standardly used in real estate advertisements and contracts. Particularly among the older generation, these units help in visualizing space, leading to their habitual use throughout the industry.
③ The Relationship with Japan’s Unique Living Culture
Living with tatami mats is a symbol of Japan's unique living culture, influencing not only real estate but also the tourism industry, such as the layout of traditional Japanese rooms and the number of rooms in ryokan (traditional inns).
5. Proper Use of
① Understand the Difference Between "Tsubo" and "Tatami."
When indicating the size of real estate, remember that "tsubo" refers to the overall area of the building or land, while "tatami" refers to the size of the interior space.
② Be Aware of Regional Differences in Tatami Sizes
Even if a real estate advertisement states, "a 6-tatami room," it is necessary to consider that the actual size may vary by region.
③ Convert Tsubo to Meters for Comparison
When comparing with overseas properties, convert using "1 tsubo = approximately 3.3 square meters," and align it with square feet or square meters.
Summary |
"Tsubo" and "tatami" are units of area used in real estate transactions in Japan, but their background is deeply related to history, culture, and practicality.
"Tsubo" and "tatami" are area units used in Japan's real estate transactions, and their background is deeply intertwined with history, culture, and practicality.
✅ "Tatami" has established itself as a standard for the layout and status of samurai residences.
✅ "Tsubo" became the standard unit for real estate influenced by Western architecture during the Meiji era.
✅ In other countries, "square meters" and "square feet" are more common.
✅ The reasons for their continued use include "ease of intuitively imagining size," "traditions in the real estate industry," and the influence of Japan's unique living culture.
While the metric system is becoming more mainstream, many still find "tsubo" and "tatami" easier to intuitively understand in terms of space. Additionally, as units tailored to Japan's housing situation, they are likely to continue being used in real estate transactions and housing development.
When searching for a home or considering renovations, understanding the differences between "tsubo" and "tatami," as well as regional size variations, can help you make more informed choices. Why not take this opportunity to reconsider the area units in real estate?
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