Why I Choose This Tatami Farmer

My Commitment to “Shiokaze” Tatami from Yatsushiro, Kumamoto

About the Author

Yusuke Higuchi

Nationally Certified First-Class Tatami Master Owner of Higuchi Tatami Shop, Tokyo

Yusuke Higuchi is a premier tatami craftsman based in Tokyo, Japan, dedicated to delivering authentic Japanese comfort to homes worldwide. He perfected his craft in Kyoto under the tutelage of a "Contemporary Master Craftsman" (Medal with Yellow Ribbon recipient), mastering the millimeter-level precision required for temples and high-end tea rooms.

• 🏆 Award: Winner of the Kyoto Tatami Competition (Governor’s Award)
• 📜 Certification: National Level 1 Tatami Craftsmanship (The highest in Japan)
• 🌎 Global Service: Specializing in custom-made tatami mats for international shipping.

Introduction

Hello, this is Yusuke Higuchi from Higuchi Tatami Shop.

Many people believe that the quality of tatami is determined solely by the craftsman’s skill.
While craftsmanship is essential, there is another equally important factor.

That is the material itself — the igusa (rush grass) and the tatami surface.

Since starting my business, I have consistently chosen tatami surfaces made by one particular farmer:
Mr. Hideyoshi Yamamoto from Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto, Japan.

In this article, I would like to explain why I continue to choose his tatami, based on my experience as a professional craftsman.

The Beauty of Tatami Starts with “Six-Core Weaving”

One of the defining features of Yamamoto-san’s tatami, branded as “Shiokaze,” is its unique structure.

Most tatami mats are woven using one or two cotton threads.
Even high-quality tatami typically use a combination of two hemp and two cotton threads.

However, “Shiokaze” uses six threads in total — two hemp and four cotton.

This structure creates a clear and well-defined texture, enhancing the natural ridges and valleys of the tatami surface.

When light hits the surface, it produces a beautiful contrast and highlights the natural luster of igusa.

Many customers tell me,
“I didn’t know tatami could look this beautiful.”

I believe this is largely due to this unique weaving structure.

The Secret Behind the Color Consistency

Another key factor is the length of the igusa.

Igusa naturally has different colors at the tip and root.
Shorter igusa often results in uneven coloring, especially near the edges of the tatami.

However, Yamamoto-san grows long, high-quality igusa, allowing for consistent color throughout the entire surface.

This results in a clean, uniform appearance without noticeable discoloration.

The difference becomes even more apparent over time.

A Craftsman’s Perspective: Flexibility Matters

From a craftsman’s point of view, what makes Yamamoto-san’s tatami truly exceptional is its flexibility.

High-grade tatami are often thick and durable, but they tend to be stiff and difficult to stretch.
This requires significant force and precision during installation.

In contrast, “Shiokaze” tatami are both thick and flexible.

This flexibility allows me to apply proper tension without forcing the material, resulting in a smooth and stable finish.

This characteristic is especially valuable when working with thin tatami or foldable tatami, which are more prone to warping.

Meeting the Farmer Behind the Tatami

For many years, I had been using Yamamoto-san’s tatami without ever meeting him.

That changed thanks to a senior craftsman I deeply respect — Mr. Nonaka from Saga Prefecture, whom I met during my training in Kyoto.

One day, he asked me,
“Is there any farmer you would like to meet?”

Without hesitation, I answered, “Hideyoshi Yamamoto.”

Through his introduction, I finally had the opportunity to visit Yamamoto-san in Kumamoto.

Witnessing True Craftsmanship

When I visited, Yamamoto-san was in the middle of weaving tatami.

I was able to see firsthand how the six-core structure was created.
I also observed him carefully removing imperfections and discolored parts known as “akai.”

Every step of his process reflected precision and dedication.

It became clear to me that this level of detail is what creates such beautiful tatami.

Sharing Customers’ Voices

I shared feedback from my customers with him:

“This is the most beautiful tatami I’ve ever seen.”
“It completely changed the atmosphere of my room.”

He smiled and seemed genuinely pleased.

At that moment, I felt a strong connection between the farmer, the craftsman, and the customer.

Tatami That Travels Across the World

Today, Yamamoto-san’s tatami are not only used in Japan but also overseas.

Greece, Mexico, the Netherlands, Australia.

Even in different climates and living environments, these tatami maintain their quality and beauty.

This experience has taught me something important:

Quality craftsmanship transcends language and culture.

Conclusion: Connecting Farmer, Craftsman, and Customer

Tatami is not created by one person alone.

It begins with the farmer who grows the igusa,
is shaped by the craftsman,
and finally completed by the person who uses it.

All three are essential.

I am deeply grateful to Yamamoto-san, to Mr. Nonaka who connected us, and to every customer who chooses my work.

Final Thoughts

Yamamoto-san’s tatami surfaces are more expensive than standard options.

However, when considering their beauty, durability, and long-term performance,
I believe they offer true value.

If you are looking for authentic, high-quality tatami,
I would be happy to help you choose the best option for your needs.

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