What is Tatami

Kappei’s Diary: My First Day in Japan

Momo-sensei

Good morning, Kappei. Did you find the Futon comfortable?

Kappei

*Yawn*... I slept like a baby! That was amazing.

Momo-sensei

Maybe you have the Tatami to thank for that?

Kappei

Tatami? I've heard that word before... is it the name of this bed?

Momo-sensei

Actually, Tatami refers to the material used for the flooring here.

Kappei

Oh, this flooring! I see. We definitely don't have this back in my country.

Momo-sensei

Tatami is a traditional Japanese flooring made from natural materials. Can you smell that pleasant aroma?

Kappei

Yes! It has a very calming, natural scent.

Tatami is "Flooring," not just a Rug

When explaining Tatami to people outside of Japan, it’s often compared to a "carpet" or "rug" because that’s the easiest way to visualize it.

However, in Japan, Tatami is actually a primary flooring material. It is engineered for extreme durability, often designed to last 40 to 50 years with proper care.

The Structure of Tatami

A Tatami mat consists of three main components: "Tatami-omote," "Tatami-beri," and "Tatami-doko."

Anatomy of a Tatami mat

Diagram: Basic structure and components of Tatami

1. Tatami-omote (Surface)

The surface is woven from a plant called "Igusa" (Rush grass). Most are grown in Kumamoto, Japan. It goes through a special "Mud-dying" process to achieve its beautiful color and signature scent.

2. Tatami-beri (Border)

The fabric that protects the edges. These come in over 50 designs, ranging from traditional hemp to modern polyester.

3. Tatami-doko (Core)

The inner core. Historically made of rice straw, modern mats often use lightweight insulation boards. A traditional mat is 5.5cm thick and can weigh over 20kg.

Kappei

Sensei, if you use it for 40 years, won't it look old and worn out?

Momo-sensei

That’s a fair point. That’s why we do what's called "Omotegae" in Japan.

Kappei

Omote... Omelet? Are we having breakfast?

Momo-sensei

Haha, not quite! "Omotegae" means replacing the surface (Omote). We take the old Igusa off and put a brand new layer on.

Kappei

Oh, I get it! So if you change the "Omote," it becomes like new again?

Momo-sensei

Exactly. As long as the core (Tatami-doko) is in good shape, you can keep refreshing the surface and use it for decades.