Golden Week is basically spring break, but Japan-style. It is a glorious cluster of four national holidays packed into one week. It kicks off with Shōwa Day, rolls into Constitution Day, then Greenery Day, and wraps up with a bang on Children’s Day. It’s basically a built-in excuse for the whole country to pause, play, and party.
CONTINUE READING
What does it feel like to sleep on a Japanese futon?
We get this question a lot! There are many different ways to express and experience this wonderful way of sleeping. My favourite description so far from a customer: a supportive cloud. And we couldn’t agree more (:
CONTINUE READING
Rest and Rejuvenation in the Year of the Snake
As we step into the Year of the Snake in 2025, a symbol brimming with depth and meaning, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the power of renewal. In Japanese culture, the snake is seen as a protective, auspicious creature—embodying themes of transformation and shedding the old to make way for the new. Just as a snake molts its skin, this year invites us to do the same – letting go of the past and embracing the promise of fresh beginnings. What better way to honor this moment than by prioritizing rest and renewal?
Continue reading
What to consider before making the switch to the Japanese futon sleep system
If you’ve been considering switching from a Western-style bed to an authentic Japanese futon, you’re not alone. The appeal of futons has grown in recent years, particularly for those seeking a minimalist, space-saving, and eco-friendly lifestyle. Before you make the transition, it’s important to understand what makes Japanese futons unique and whether they align with your personal preferences and lifestyle.
CONTINUE READING
Exploring Japanese futons and the role in New Year traditions
In Japan, the New Year (or Shogatsu) is celebrated with a rich tapestry of customs and traditions, one of the most iconic being the way people rest during this time of year. While many cultures have distinct ways to ring in the new year, in Japan, the humble futon (a traditional bedding system consisting of a mattress, duvet, and pillows) plays an interesting and deeply symbolic role in these celebrations.
CONTINUE READING
Let’s talk cotton
We get a LOT of questions about our cotton filling. Our organic cotton is sourced from India and we have a GOTS (Global Organic Textile standard) certificate. Our natural cotton is from Mexico, it is Grade A quality. All raw cotton is 100% chemical and pesticide free.
CONTINUE READING
Three reasons to invest in a Japanese shikibuton
We’ve already explained how many of our customers have reported relief from aches and pains especially in the neck and back. I personally had a recent experience that really proved to me how important my futon is! I went travelling for 2 weeks and was waking up every morning with a sore neck and feeling like I slept poorly. Often I was hitting the snooze button. The first night back home and sleeping on my futon, my neck pain was gone and I felt rested again! And, I didn’t hit the snooze button!
Continue reading
Removing accidental stains and odours from your futon
Accidents happen. They can be very unfortunate and you might feel like the world has ended. Fear not. You are not the first person to have spilled something, vomited or gotten urine on the futon bed from a human or pet …
CONTINUE READING
What is a daruma doll?
“Daruma?” You ask in a quizzical tone. You’ve likely come across the popular iconography in a Japanese home or restaurant. Or perhaps in a movie, manga or anima. But what do they mean and where do they come from? Why are they so special in Japanese culture?
Usually the dolls are small, red and hollow. They might appear to be angry at first glance. But upon deeper inspection they are quite beautiful with detailed meaningful symbols.
CONTINUE READING