If you’re looking for a pillow that’s as natural as it is supportive, you’ve probably come across two traditional Japanese favourites — buckwheat pillows and hinoki pillows.
Both offer unique benefits for sleep quality, posture, and overall wellness. But which one is right for you?
Quick Comparison Table
Feature | Buckwheat Pillow | Hinoki Pillow (Tatami Shop) |
Support & Alignment | Molds to head & neck; maintains spinal posture | Filled with finely shaved hinoki wood; supports head and neck naturally |
Temperature Control | Highly breathable; cool to the touch | Naturally breathable; absorbs excess moisture from the air |
Aroma & Sensory | Mild, earthy scent | Calming, woody aroma from hinoki essential oils |
Durability | 3–10+ years with care; refillable | Long-lasting hinoki wood chips maintain structure over years |
Adjustability | Loft easily tailored by adding/removing hulls | Adjustable height via side cords |
Allergens | Hypoallergenic, dust-mite resistant | Naturally antimicrobial and insect-repelling |
Ideal For | Side/back sleepers, hot sleepers, allergy-sensitive | Back sleepers, aromatherapy lovers, those seeking firmer feel |
Deep Dive: Buckwheat Pillows
Custom Support & Alignment
Buckwheat pillows are filled with triangular hulls that shift and settle to cradle your head and neck. This allows the pillow to maintain proper spinal alignment, reducing morning stiffness and tension headaches.
Cooling Comfort
Because the hulls don’t trap heat, buckwheat pillows remain cool and breathable — a welcome feature for hot sleepers or those in warm climates.
Longevity & Sustainability
A well-cared-for buckwheat pillow can last many years. Hulls are fully compostable, making them an eco-friendly choice when it’s time for a refill.
Considerations
Buckwheat pillows are heavier than conventional pillows and have a gentle rustling sound that may take some getting used to.
Deep Dive: Hinoki Pillows
Aromatic Relaxation
Tatami Shop’s Hinoki Pillow is filled with finely shaved wood from the Japanese cypress tree (hinoki). This natural filling releases a fresh, woody fragrance that creates a calming, spa-like atmosphere in your bedroom — perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Natural Comfort & Support
Hinoki wood chips conform gently to your head and neck, supporting proper posture while encouraging muscle relaxation. The filling’s firmness helps maintain alignment, especially for back sleepers who prefer a slightly elevated position.
Moisture-Wicking & Antimicrobial
Hinoki wood naturally absorbs excess moisture, keeping your pillow fresh and breathable. It’s also known for its antimicrobial properties, helping prevent mould and keeping pests away — without synthetic chemicals.
Adjustable Design for a Perfect Fit
Tatami Shop’s design includes side cords that allow you to adjust the height and firmness of the pillow. Whether you prefer a slightly lower loft or firmer support, you can easily tailor it to your comfort.
Built to Last
Hinoki wood chips are highly durable and won’t break down like conventional pillow fillings, offering years of consistent support with minimal maintenance.
Care Tip
Simply air the pillow in a shaded, breezy spot to refresh the aroma and maintain its natural benefits
Which Pillow Is Right for You?
Choose Buckwheat if you want:
- Moldable support for any sleep position
- Superior cooling for hot or humid climates
- A refillable, compostable option for long-term sustainability
Choose Hinoki if you want:
- A naturally fragrant, aromatherapy-enhanced sleep experience
- Firm yet gentle neck support, ideal for back sleeping
- A low-maintenance, long-lasting pillow with antimicrobial benefits
Final Takeaway
Both buckwheat and hinoki pillows are steeped in Japanese tradition and offer natural, toxin-free comfort.
If your focus is cooling, moldable support, buckwheat is a strong choice. If you prefer aromatic relaxation with firm, lasting support, hinoki may be your perfect match.
Discover both options at Tatami Shop and transform your nightly rest into a natural wellness ritual.
