Tatami has been loved by the Japanese people since ancient times and has developed as a unique lifestyle culture. In this article, I will briefly discuss the history of tatami.
Old Tatami
In Jomon and Yayoi periods(about BC 2000〜AD 300), Japanese ancestors used wisdom to make comfortable houses with rice straw. From Remains, we find signs that rice straw was used in houses.
Oldest Japan history book, “Kojiki” (AD 712 made) has tatami writing. That time tatami, no tatami core, guess is woven grass mats put together.
Tatami and Social Status in Nara and Heian Periods
In Nara and Heian periods(AD 710〜1192), tatami showed person’s social level. Tatami makers came, and nobles used tatami, but common people used things like mushiro and komo(woven grass rugs).
Tatami was used in houses for sitting and sleeping. Number, color, and design of tatami showed person’s level.
In Heian law book “Engishiki(AD 927 made),” it said number of layers in tatami decided by social level. Important guest or not known by color and design of tatami edge.
Kamakura to Edo Period
From the Kamakura period to the Muromachi period(AD 1180〜1568), tatami began to be used in the same way as it is today, covering the entire room.
Tatami, which had been a seating item for entertaining guests, started to become a floor material in buildings. In the Edo period(1600〜1868), tatami became more common, and people learned how to take care of them to make them last longer.
The profession of tatami craftsman was established, and tatami was gradually used in the homes of common people as well.
Modern tatami mats
Tatami has become an indispensable part of Japanese life, and there used to be a Japanese-style room in every house.
However, in recent homes, the number of Japanese-style rooms has decreased, and instead, tatami corners in the living room and thin tatami mats in Western-style rooms have increased.
Furthermore, the use of new tatami materials, such as resin, has increased, allowing for a variety of colors to choose from. Tatami continues to evolve to accommodate individual lifestyles and preferences.
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