About the Author
Yusuke Higuchi
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.
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.
In Japan, tatami are not just functional floor mats — their decorative edges (tatami heri, 縁) often carry symbolic meanings. Many traditional patterns on tatami borders are chosen to bring blessings, longevity, or protection to a household.
If you’re planning to replace tatami or select a border, understanding these patterns can add deeper significance to your choice.
Why do tatami borders have designs?
While some tatami borders are purely decorative, in traditional Japanese culture many motifs are selected because of their symbolic power or good fortune associations.
These patterns may represent wishes: longevity, prosperity, resilience, peace, and more.
Below are some of the most popular tatami border (heri) designs and their associated meanings.
Common Tatami Border Patterns and Their Symbolism
| Pattern Name | Design Image | Meaning / Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| 青海波 (Seigaiha) |
|
Endless waves symbolizing peace, continuity, and lasting happiness. |
| 麻の葉 (Asanoha) |
|
Hemp leaf pattern representing growth, vitality, and protection from evil. |
| 亀甲 (Kikkō) |
|
Hexagonal pattern inspired by turtle shells, symbolizing longevity and stability. |
| 菱紋 (Hishimon) |
|
Diamond-shaped pattern representing harmony, prosperity, and the strength of family ties. |
| 桜 (Sakura) |
|
Cherry blossom motif symbolizing beauty, renewal, and the transient nature of life. |
| 千鳥格子 (Chidori Goshi) |
|
Houndstooth pattern often associated with elegance and good fortune; the word “chidori” (plover) also symbolizes perseverance. |
| Pattern Name | Japanese Name | Meaning / Symbolism | Suggested Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hemp leaf | 麻の葉 (asa no ha) | A strong talisman pattern. Represents growth, purity, and warding off evil. | Ideal for families with newborns or children — invoking protection and growth. |
| Shippo (Seven Treasures) | 七宝 (shippō) | A repeating circle motif, symbolizing harmony and continuity. | Often used in elegant rooms, temples, or guest rooms. |
| Tortoise shell | 亀甲 (kikkō) | Tortoise = longevity, stability. | Bedrooms of elders or central rooms. |
| Scales (Fish or Snake scale) | 鱗 (uroko) | Renewal, regeneration, protection. | For households wanting refreshing energy or to ward off misfortune. |
| Seigaiha (Elegant waves) | 青海波 | Continual peace, calm beyond measure. | Great for living rooms or serene spaces. |
| Yagasuri (Arrow feathers) | 矢絣 | Fast progress and perseverance. | Good for new ventures, moving homes, or career changes. |
| Sayagata / Saigata | 紗綾形 | Linked geometric motif. “Unbroken continuity and prosperity.” | Suited for high-end rooms, tea rooms, formal settings. |
| Diamond (Hishimon) | 菱紋 (hishi mon) | Prosperity, wealth, growth. | For areas intended to impress or signify success. |
| Checkered (Ichimatsu) | 市松 | Balance, diversity, continuation through generations. | Often used in modern Japanese design. |
| Arabesque (Karakusa) | 唐草 | Vital life force, resilience, longevity. | In entrances or living rooms to symbolize strength. |
| Cherry blossom | 桜 (sakura) | New beginnings, spring, renewal. | Good for fresh starts like new homes or celebrations. |
| Plum blossom | 梅 (ume) | Resilience, hope, strength through adversity. | Winter or older residences — symbolic of perseverance. |
| Iris (Kakitsubata) | 菖蒲 | Good fortune, auspiciousness. | For places you hope to attract blessings. |
| Dragonfly | 蜻蛉 (tonbo) | Victory, advancement, ambition (dragonflies fly forward, not back). | Rooms for students, offices, decision-makers. |
| Shark small-robe | 鮫小紋 | High-tier pattern associated with formality and elegance. | Formal rooms, guest quarters. |
| Spiral / swirl | 渦巻き | Drawing in luck, spiraling blessings. | Accent areas, entryways. |
| Flowing water | 流水 | Washing away negativity. | Areas facing adversity or transitions. |
| Chidori check | 千鳥格子 | Fortune, harvest, good fate. | Good “all-purpose” motif for many rooms. |
| Snow circle | 雪輪 | Abundance, fruitful harvest, purity. | Especially for traditional settings or countryside homes. |
| Kadotoshi (Intersecting lines) | 角通し | Straight, upright life. | For those who value order, discipline, honesty. |
| Daruma | 達磨 | Perseverance, protective talisman, auspiciousness. | For homes seeking resilience or spiritual protection. |
Tips When Choosing a Tatami Border Pattern (for overseas or non-Japanese users)
- Choose a meaning you personally resonate with. Even if tradition is foreign, selecting a motif for your intention (growth, peace, prosperity) adds personal value.
- Consider the room’s purpose. For example, for a study or workspace, motifs like Yagasuri (progress) or Dragonfly may feel apt.
- Balance design with rest of room. A highly decorative border may distract in minimalist interiors.
- Check production quality. Some patterns require more weaving care — choose a skilled tatami maker.
- Ask to see color samples. Light, dark, or subtly colored borders can change the feel of a room.
Final Thoughts
Tatami are not only functional mats — they carry deep cultural expression. The tatami border patterns (heri) can honor tradition, express wishes, or simply decorate tastefully.
When you choose a pattern with meaning, your space comes alive with stories and intentions.
