Domestic Tatami Replacements: From Budget Igusa Mats to Premium Grades – Complete Price Guide
About the Author
Certified First-Class Tatami Craftsman / Owner of Higuchi Tatami Shop
Trained at Sawabe Tatami Co., Ltd. in Kyoto, a workshop led by a "Contemporary Master Craftsman" honored with the Medal with Yellow Ribbon, before starting his own business in Edogawa, Tokyo.
Winner of the Kyoto Tatami Competition (Governor’s Award) / Holder of the National First-Class Tatami Craftsman License.
Extensive experience from temples and shrines in Tokyo’s Edogawa ward, to private homes, tea rooms, houseboats, and guesthouses.
Hello everyone, this is Higuchi from Higuchi Tatami Shop. If you’ve been wondering how much it will cost to replace your tatami with domestic igusa, you’re in the right place. In this article, I’ll walk you through price ranges from budget-friendly to high-end mats, explain what makes domestic tatami special, and help you decide what’s right for your home.
What Makes Domestic Igusa Different from Chinese Mats
When selecting tatami, many people ask: What’s the difference between domestic (Japan-grown) igusa and Chinese ones? Here are three major distinctions:
| Feature | Domestic Igusa | Chinese Igusa |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber Density | Thicker fibers, tightly packed → more durability | Thinner, less dense → more prone to wear |
| Pesticide Use | Produced under strict standards with minimal pesticide usage | Standards are looser; pesticide levels tend to be higher |
| Texture & Fragrance | Gentle scent, beautifully aged colors, natural texture | Often processed fast; fragrance may be less pleasant, color variation possible |
If you value long-lasting quality, scent, and a natural feel, domestic igusa is often the better choice.
Our Domestic Tatami Lineup & Price Tiers
At Higuchi Tatami Shop, we offer a wide range of domestic tatami mats to suit different budgets and preferences. All prices below are for tatami surface replacement only (表替え). For new tatami (new core + surface), the price will vary based on size, thickness, and materials—please request an estimate.
🔸Cost of tatami replacement in Japan
| Tier | Price (Before Tax / After Tax) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Domestic | ¥6,600 | Single cotton warp, certified igusa ("Hinoharuka") → affordable domestic option, good for rentals |
| Mid-Range, General Homes | ¥9,900 | Cotton double warp, more robust structure, better durability |
| Kid-Safe / Heavy Use Rooms | ¥13,200 | Linen + cotton mix, rugged for heavy foot traffic and kids |
| Eco-Premium | ¥16,500 | Six-strand core, special dried surface (“Shiokaze”) → better resistance to mold and beautiful aging |
| Top Domestic Grade “Hino Sakura” | ¥22,000 | Premium brand, high craftsmanship, refined in color and weave |
| Luxury Grade “Hino Sarasa” | ¥33,000 | Ultra-dense weave (7,000-8,000 rush fibers), produced by master craftsmen, ideal for tea rooms, temples, and cultural properties |
🔸The price of sending tatami mats overseas
| Tatami Type | Features | Price per Mat |
|---|---|---|
Premium Japanese Igusa Tatami | High-grade tatami made with top-quality domestic igusa | 50,000 JPY |
Standard Japanese Igusa Tatami | Regular-grade tatami made with domestic igusa | 30,000 JPY |
Chinese Igusa Tatami | Budget-friendly tatami made with Chinese igusa | 20,000 JPY |
Daiken Washi Tatami (Synthetic Paper) | Highly durable and resistant to mold | 25,000 JPY |
Sekisui Migusa Tatami (Resin-based) | Wide variety of colors and stylish design | 25,000 JPY |
Why You’ll Notice a Difference
Customers who choose our domestic tatami often report:
- Feeling the solid touch under foot (fewer loose fibers)
- A gentler, more pleasant natural fragrance
- Seeing less wear over time, especially at edge corners and frequently used areas
We work closely with igusa farmers to ensure quality at the source, and we aim to preserve as much of that natural character as possible in each mat we deliver.
Tips for Choosing the Right Tatami Grade
- Identify your usage pattern: Is this in a guest room, living room, children’s play area? Heavy usage demands more durable tatami.
- Consider your budget vs lifespan: Investing a bit more upfront in a premium domestic grade often means less frequent replacement.
- Ask about surface treatment and drying process: These affect both appearance and scent.
- Request samples or visit in person if possible. Seeing and feeling the material helps more than just photos.
Conclusion
Whether you’re aiming for an affordable refresh or seeking top-tier craftsmanship, there are many excellent domestic tatami options. By understanding what makes igusa durable, how grades differ, and aligning choices with your lifestyle, you can get real value—and enjoy tatami that ages beautifully.
If you’re uncertain which grade fits you, feel free to contact us at Higuchi Tatami Shop. We’re happy to give personalized advice.
Author & Credentials
Yūsuke Higuchi – 1st Grade Tatami Craftsmanship Specialist / Owner of Higuchi Tatami Shop
Trained at the prestigious Sawabe Tatami Store in Kyoto,
Winner of the Kyoto Governor’s Prize at multiple tatami craftsmanship competitions, holder of the national 1st class tatami craftsman qualification, with experience in traditional houses, tea rooms, temples, guesthouses, and private residences.
