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 (:
The unique experience of sleeping on a Japanese futon
When most people think of a good night’s sleep, they picture a plush mattress, soft pillows, and cozy blankets. But in Japan, a traditional way of sleeping might surprise you—enter the futon. Unlike Western-style beds, a Japanese futon is not a piece of furniture, but a lightweight, foldable bedding set typically laid directly on the tatami floor. It’s a practice that’s been a part of Japanese culture for centuries, and sleeping on a futon offers an experience unlike any other.
The first time you sleep on a Japanese futon, perhaps in a ryokan, you may notice the simplicity and understated comfort it provides. The futon consists of three parts: the shikibuton (mattress), the kakebuton (comforter), and a makura (pillow). Everything is thin, lightweight, and compact—designed to maximise space and offer flexibility. Protective covers are highly recommended to further protect your items and they are easily removable and washable.
One of the first things you’ll notice is how close to the floor you are. There’s something grounding and calming about being closer to the earth, especially when sleeping on the tatami that line the floor. Tatami are made from rice straw, creating a firm yet gentle surface that’s both natural and soothing.
The firmness factor
The most noticeable difference when sleeping on a futon is the firmness. Unlike soft Western mattresses, a futon provides a firm, supportive surface that encourages proper posture. Some people might find it too hard at first, but many report that after a few nights, they begin to appreciate how well the futon supports their spine. The firmness may even improve sleep quality, as it helps reduce pressure points and align the body.
A futon’s simplicity also makes it highly customisable. If you find it too firm, you can add extra layers of blankets, an extra futon or mat beneath. The thinness of the futon makes it easy to adjust and adapt to your comfort level. It may take some getting used to, but once you do, the minimalistic design of the futon becomes something of a serene ritual.
The ritual of sleep set up
Part of the futon experience is the ritual of setting it up at night and putting it away each morning. Traditionally, the futon is folded and stored in a closet or cupboard during the day to free up space in the room. This daily routine of folding and putting away your bedding is a reminder of the Japanese values of simplicity and mindfulness. The act of transforming your living space from day to night offers a sense of quiet reflection, and the room feels fresh and uncluttered in the morning.
The cool, clean feel of Japanese bedding
Sleeping on a futon also offers a unique sensation in terms of temperature. Because the futon is often made of cotton or other natural materials, it tends to breathe well and stays cool throughout the night. For those who live in humid climates, like Japan, this makes the futon especially ideal for summer months. The coolness of the bedding against your skin creates a refreshing contrast, which is part of why the Japanese futon is often considered a perfect sleep environment.
The pillow: a small but important detail
The makura (pillow) used with a Japanese futon is a key part of the sleeping experience. Unlike the large, plush pillows many people are used to, the Japanese pillow is typically smaller, filled with beans, buckwheat, or other materials. It’s firm, and the idea is to provide support for your neck and head without being too soft or too large. At first, this might feel strange if you’re used to a thick, fluffy pillow, but many find that the firm support helps prevent neck pain and encourages better alignment.
NOTE: We currently only offer cotton filled Makura and traditional cushions for sitting on the floor, called Zabuton. This is because we have a cotton workshop. We did look to source traditional good quality, buckwheat filled soba gara makura, but they are prone to bug infestations so we decided not to stock or sell these.
The sense of peace and quiet
Sleeping on a futon offers a sense of peace and quiet that can’t be found with a traditional bed. The close-to-the-ground positioning and the minimalistic environment promote a calming atmosphere. With fewer distractions and a more serene setup, it’s easier to wind down and fall asleep. The natural materials used in the futon, the quietness of the room, and the simplicity of the setup create a tranquil space that encourages a deep, restful sleep.
A new perspective on sleep
Sleeping on a Japanese futon is not just a physical experience—it’s a mental one too. The simplicity, the connection to the floor, and the ritualistic process of setting up and packing away the bedding all add to the sense of mindfulness and tranquility. It’s an opportunity to step away from the distractions of modern life and experience a form of rest that encourages body alignment, relaxation, and peace.
If you’ve never tried sleeping on a futon, it’s certainly worth the experience. You might just find that the firm support, coolness, and calming simplicity of the Japanese futon leads to some of the best nights of sleep you’ve ever had. Whether you’re traveling to Japan or simply curious about trying something different, embracing this minimalist way of sleeping could change your perspective on rest—and perhaps even improve your overall sleep quality.
Take a look at our traditional handmade Japanese futon sets and get yourself an instant membership at the good night sleep club. You will NOT regret it!
