Tatami Day (Tatami no Hi)

What Is Tatami Day?

September 24th is "Tatami Day," established by the National Tatami Industry Promotion Association to highlight the merits of tatami mats and promote their continued use. Tatami Day is observed twice a year—in spring on April 29th (Greenery Day) and in autumn on September 24th.

Why Is September 24th "Tatami Day"?

September 24th marks the first day of Environmental Sanitation Week (September 24–30). Since tatami plays a role in regulating humidity and purifying indoor air, this day was chosen to highlight tatami's contribution to a healthy living environment.

• First day of Environmental Sanitation Week: Highlighting tatami's environmental benefits.
• Promoting tatami culture: Aimed at preserving Japan's traditional living culture.
• Twice a year: Spring is tied to Greenery Day, while autumn aligns with Environmental Sanitation Week.

What Is Tatami?

Tatami is a traditional Japanese flooring material made up of a woven "tatami-omote" surface (typically made from rush grass, called igusa) and a "tatami-doko" core (made from straw or board materials). Soft and warm, it's an iconic feature of Japanese-style rooms.

• Tatami-omote (surface): Primarily made from igusa rush grass, with Kumamoto Prefecture as Japan's largest producer.
• Tatami-doko (core): Comes in straw-based or board-based varieties.
• Sizes: Vary by region, including Kyo-ma, Chukyo-ma, and Edo-ma standards.

The Appeal and Function of Tatami

Tatami isn't just visually appealing—it also offers excellent functional benefits for living spaces.

• Humidity regulation: Igusa absorbs and releases moisture, helping balance indoor humidity.
• Air purification: Said to help absorb certain harmful substances.
• Insulation: Keeps rooms cool in summer and warm in winter.
• A calming scent: The aroma of igusa is known for its relaxing effect.

Interesting Facts About Tatami Day

• Tatami's lifespan: The surface is generally recommended for replacement every 5 to 10 years.
• Where igusa is grown: About 90% of domestic production comes from Kumamoto Prefecture.
• Fewer Japanese-style rooms: While tatami rooms are declining due to changing housing styles, there's a growing movement to rediscover their value.
• Colored tatami: Modern resin- and washi-paper-based colored tatami have also become popular.

Ways to Enjoy Tatami Day

• Relax in a tatami room and enjoy the scent of igusa.
• Care for your tatami by dry-wiping and ventilating to keep it clean.
• Consider replacing or refacing your tatami.
• Spend quiet time reading or meditating in a Japanese-style room.

Tatami: A Floor That Brings Comfort and Calm to Japanese Living

September 24th's "Tatami Day" is a chance to rediscover the charm and functionality of traditional tatami culture. Take a moment to appreciate the comfort of a Japanese-style room.