Reasons Not to Step on the Edges of Tatami | The Legacy of Samurai Etiquette in Modern Times

Tatami is a fundamental element rooted in Japan's traditional living culture, and the "tatami edges (heri)" that adorn it carry meanings beyond mere decoration. In the samurai society, they represented status, and during the Edo period, they became common among the general populace. Additionally, during the Sengoku period, they were used from a practical perspective, contributing to the long history of tatami edges.
Moreover, there is an etiquette in Japan that states, "Do not step on the tatami edges," which is deeply connected to samurai culture. This article will provide a detailed explanation of the significance and design history of tatami edges, their status, etiquette, as well as their modern applications and future possibilities.

1. The History of Tatami Edges: A Symbol of Status and Practicality

Tatami edges were originally sewn on as a practical measure to enhance the durability of tatami mats. However, as time progressed, decorative elements were added, and they became symbols of status and the social hierarchy in samurai society.

① Samurai Society and Tatami Edges: A Symbol of Status

From the Muromachi period to the Edo period, tatami was a symbol of high status in households.
• Shogun and Daimyo Residences: Fully tatami-floored (symbol of status)
• Mid-level Samurai Residences: Tatami only in the main rooms
• Commoners' Homes: Primarily wooden floors, with only some tatami laid down
In high-status residences, tatami edges were adorned with family crests or luxurious woven decorations. Particularly, the tatami edges in the rooms where shoguns and daimyos sat were a strict display of status, and it was considered disrespectful for lower-ranking samurai or vassals to step on the tatami edges.

② Edo Period: The Development of Tatami Edges and Commoner Culture

As the Edo period progressed, tatami became more widespread and began to be used among the common people. However, unlike the tatami edges in samurai residences, which signified status, the designs of tatami edges that spread during this time focused on practicality.
• Samurai Tatami Edges: Made with high-quality fabrics and featuring family crests to represent the household’s status
• Merchant Tatami Edges: Plain or simple patterns became the mainstream
Additionally, the development of tea ceremony and flower arrangement during the Edo period led to the emergence of "bukuro tatami," which did not have tatami edges, giving rise to a design for Japanese rooms that emphasized spirituality.

The samurai tatami's edge had a family crest on it

2. Sengoku Period: The Practical Background of Tatami Edges

During the Sengoku period, tatami edges were not merely decorative; their practical use was also considered.

① Use of Tatami in Samurai Encampments

• In the encampments of Sengoku warlords, "hemless tatami (sudatami)" was often used.
• Reason: To facilitate movement on the battlefield, ensuring that the edges did not get in the way.

Q: What is an encampment?
An "jinya" refers to an administrative or military base established by a daimyo in their domain during the Edo period, particularly in areas where they did not have a castle. It served primarily as an office or residence for small-scale domains or as a governor's office managing directly controlled territories (tenryō).

Kashiwabara Encampment: The Main Hall

② Reasons Tatami Edges Were Avoided on the Battlefield

• The seams of tatami edges could potentially catch weapons like swords or spears, so hemless tatami was sometimes used to avoid disadvantages in combat.
• Conversely, in formal settings, tatami edges were sometimes used even in samurai encampments to signify status.

3. The Reason for Not Stepping on Tatami Edges: A Unique Japanese Etiquette

In Japan, there is a custom of "not stepping on tatami edges." This practice originates from the culture of maintaining status in samurai society and is widely recognized today as part of the etiquette in traditional Japanese rooms.

① Etiquette as a Remnant of Samurai Society

• In samurai residences, stepping on tatami edges with family crests was considered extremely disrespectful.
• Therefore, it became customary to "walk avoiding tatami edges" in formal settings.

② The Aesthetics of Japanese Movements

• Japanese culture places great importance on the beauty of movements and etiquette, and the act of not stepping on tatami edges has come to be regarded as "graceful behavior."
• In tea ceremony and flower arrangement practices, it is also fundamental to walk without stepping on tatami edges.

③ "Tatami Edge Etiquette" in Modern Contexts

Even today, there are various situations where it is considered proper etiquette not to step on tatami edges:

Tea ceremony and flower arrangement settings (as a sign of formal behavior)
Formal Japanese rooms (such as in high-end restaurants, inns, and shrines)
Ceremonial occasions (as part of etiquette in traditional rooms)

4. Modern Uses of Tatami Edges and Future Prospects

In the modern era, tatami edges have evolved beyond their traditional roles, becoming items that combine design and practicality.

① Use in Interior Design and Goods
Products such as bags, pouches, business card holders, and book covers featuring tatami edges have emerged. There are increasing examples of tatami edges being used in hotels and cafes to create a "wa-modern" ambiance.

② Use of Sustainable Materials
Tatami edges made from recycled and eco-friendly materials have appeared, contributing to efforts to reduce environmental impact.

③ International Expansion of Tatami Edges
With the growing interest in Japanese culture, tatami edges are being incorporated into overseas architecture and interior design.

Summary | The Significance of Tatami Edges

Tatami edges are not merely decorative; they hold a significant history intertwined with status, social hierarchy, and etiquette.

In samurai society, tatami edges represented status and were not to be stepped on.
During the Edo period, tatami became popular among commoners, leading to diverse designs for tatami edges.
In the Sengoku period, practicality in combat led to the use of hemless tatami.
In modern times, tatami edges are utilized in wa-modern interiors and goods, continuing to evolve.
Tatami edges reflect Japan's rich history and culture. Why not consider incorporating tatami edges into your modern life?