If you’ve ever touched a real Tatami product, you’ve probably noticed something different.
It’s not just the fragrance (fresh, earthy, grounding). It’s the feel. The texture. It’s got this subtle, understated sense of luxury, rather than an overt display of wealth.
At Tatami Shop, we use 100% natural Igusa Rush grown in Kyushu, Kumamoto, Japan. And while there are faster, cheaper, and more synthetic options out there, we’ve stayed with this material for decades.
Here’s why, and why it still matters now more than ever.
It Regulates Heat and Moisture Naturally
Igusa Rush is naturally structured with fine, porous fibers that help regulate heat and absorb excess humidity. That means it keeps your body cooler in warm weather and vise-versa, helping to maintain a stable surface temperature, which is something that synthetic materials often try (and fail) to imitate with added gels or coatings.
In warm, tropical climates like Singapore, this natural climate control isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s a comfort essential.
It's Kind to the Earth
Unlike foam or plastic-based materials, Igusa Rush is fully renewable and biodegradable. It doesn’t rely on petroleum, and it doesn’t need chemical processing or artificial finishes to function well.
Even better, the Igusa we use is locally farmed in Japan’s Kyushu region, where growing practices support biodiversity and soil health. When we choose Igusa, we’re choosing a supply chain that respects both craft and the planet.
Why We Don’t, and Won't Substitute It
This might surprise you, but if we run out of Igusa Rush, we won't make the product.
That’s because we only use 100% natural, high-quality Igusa. No fillers. No synthetic blends. And that means we’re limited by nature’s timeline.
When the harvest season ends in Kumamoto, we wait. We wait for the next season’s crops to grow, mature, and be properly cured. Because rushing it (or replacing it) would compromise the integrity of the product and what we believe in.
In contrast, mass-produced or synthetic alternatives can just sub in another material from a warehouse shelf. That’s not how we work.
It’s Backed by Centuries of Culture and Craft
Tatami has been made from Igusa for over 1,000 years in Japan. Not just for tradition’s sake, but because it genuinely works well.
It’s not only strong, it’s durable. It holds its shape. It’s comfortable underfoot, as a sleeping surface, or more. And it’s carefully handwoven by artisans who train for years in the techniques needed to make it right.
We partner with these craftspeople to bring that history into modern spaces, one mat at a time.
It’s Naturally Health-Enhancing
People often notice that their space feels fresher after switching to a Tatami setup. That’s because Igusa Rush has real, tested wellness benefits:
- Antibacterial properties help reduce unwanted microbes
- Odour-absorbing qualities improve indoor air freshness
- Lightly aromatic scent has been shown to support relaxation and mental clarity
- Humidity balancing keeps the surface comfortable without artificial help
No coatings. No sprays. Just nature doing its thing, simply and effectively.
It Grows Old Gracefully
One of our favourite things about Igusa is that it changes over time.
The green fades into a soft golden tone. The texture becomes slightly more pliable. It develops character (like quality linen or leather) and if cared for well, it can last for 10 years or more.
In Singapore, we even offer annual cleaning for Tatami range items to help extend their life. Because we believe in making things that stay with you, not just sell.
Igusa Is More Than a Material, It’s a Choice
To us, Igusa isn’t just what we use. It reflects how we want to live.
Slowly, with care. In harmony with the seasons. Grounded, but refined. Authentic, but practical.
And in a world that often prioritises convenience over intention, Igusa reminds us that the best things aren’t always the fastest or the flashiest. They’re the ones that support you for years to come.
If that sounds like something you’d welcome into your space, from now till 2nd July, you can get up to 20% off everything in our store.
