Tatami

Tatami is the woven rush-straw mat flooring found in traditional Japanese rooms. It is firm yet slightly springy, smells faintly of grass, and is usually laid in rectangular panels that set the size of the room.

You will meet tatami most often in a ryokan, a temple lodging or a restaurant with floor seating. Shoes never go on it. Take them off at the entrance, and wear socks or go barefoot.

How do you behave on tatami?

A few habits keep the mats in good condition:

• Walk without slippers, even the room slippers from the corridor.
• Lift wheeled luggage rather than rolling it across the mat.
• Avoid dragging furniture or heavy cases.
• Do not step on the dark cloth borders between mats if you can help it.

Is it comfortable to sit and sleep on?

Many guests sit on a flat cushion at a low table, then sleep on a futon laid out by staff in the evening. This is easy for children, but harder for travellers with knee or back problems.

Our guide to sleeping on tatami and futon with elders covers the options. Before you book, use the checklist on what to ask before booking a ryokan.