We spend nearly one-third of our lives asleep. Sleep isn’t just “switching off”, it’s biological theatre: hormones rise and fall, the brain reorganises itself, memories consolidate, and the body repairs. And along the way? In and around the topic of sleep there are some wonderfully strange things that happen.
Let’s explore.
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January is a wonderful time to explore Kochi prefecture on Japan’s Shikoku island. With its relatively mild winter climate, early-blooming camellia flowers (tsubaki), and bustling local markets, the region offers a unique mix of natural beauty, culture, history and seasonal flavors.
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Sometimes, a standard futon size doesn’t quite fit your space or sleeping style. Whether you have a unique bed frame, a built-in sleeping nook, a boat, camper van or simply prefer a specific dimension, we’re happy to create a custom futon just for you.
Here’s how to get started and what to keep in mind when ordering.
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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.
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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 …
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“This is the best sleep I have ever had. I had a back injury when I was in my teens and I often wake up with a stiff back. Firm surfaces help with this and this provides that … but it still has an extreme comfort to it … it is difficult to describe. My back feels great after waking up.”
– Paul
This is a review from our customer, Paul, in the UK. Read the full review here. I promise, this is no sales gimmick. Just words, straight from our customer’s mouth.
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Traditionally, Japanese futons are placed in a room lined with tatami flooring. A family would usually sleep in one room together, each person in their own futon. In the morning, the futons would be stored in a cupboard so the room could be used for eating, hobbies and other activities. Over time, things change. But do they?
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Shikibuton covers are different to fitted sheets that you would use on a western mattress. They are made specifically to encase the whole futon, rather than just covering the top and sides as a western style fitted sheet (clinging for dear life onto each of its four corners). Our futon covers fully encapsulate your item in a high quality cotton zipper case. Our kakebuton covers also envelope the whole duvet with a cute top window showcasing the gorgeous pattern. Depending on the size, your kakebuton cover might have a mesh covered window which helps to keep the duvet in place while you move around in your futon while sleeping.
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Airing or “sunning” a futon is an important part of using it. As futons are made only from cotton, they need to breathe, air out, and fluff up. The UV rays kill microscopic bugs and allow moisture to dissipate, thereby preventing mildew and mould from growing.
On sunny days in Japan it is common to see futons hanging out of windows and on balcony banisters, secured with plastic clips.
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