HIROYUKI TANAKA
Our company has been operating in Ōmori, Ōta Ward, Tokyo, for 120 years. Now in its fourth generation, Hiroyuki Tanaka has taken over as the current representative.
We strive to serve our customers with honesty and sincerity, providing thorough explanations about tatami, the different types of tatami work, and the processes involved. Since our work is primarily handcrafted, we can create everything from traditional tatami used in cultural heritage sites to uniquely designed tatami that resembles artwork.
As a specialty store focusing on domestically sourced materials, we not only handle all aspects of tatami craftsmanship but also continue to explore new possibilities for tatami in modern applications.
Bringing Tatami Culture to the World:
An Interview with Mr. Tanaka
Mr. Tanaka runs a tatami shop in Tokyo. His work is not just about making tatami mats—it’s also about spreading Japanese culture to the world. In this interview, we asked him about his passion for tatami and his challenges overseas.
Interview
01
What inspired you to become a Tatami Artisan?
My family has been in the tatami business for generations, so that was a big influence. But when I thought about it, I realized that I hardly knew anything about tatami myself. I think this applies to many Japanese people—everyone knows tatami exists, but they don’t really understand its depth. That’s where I saw great potential.
02
Why are you in California, specifically Napa?
What made you decide to take your craft abroad?
I’ve noticed that people often realize the true value of Japanese culture only after it’s recognized overseas. That’s why I wanted to bring the beauty of tatami to the world, rather than just keeping it in Japan. Through various encounters and opportunities, I found the perfect environment to take on this challenge in Napa.
At first, I wasn’t sure how tatami would be received abroad. But when I showed samples to people in Napa, many of them said things like, ‘This smells amazing!’ or ‘I love the way it feels under my feet.’ That’s when I thought, ‘This might actually work!’ I felt a real sense of possibility.
03
How do you plan to introduce tatami in the U.S.?
Rather than just selling tatami mats, I want to offer experiences using tatami. For example, meditation and mindfulness events in tatami spaces. Tatami creates a serene atmosphere with its texture and scent, making it perfect for spaces where people can relax and reset their minds.
We’ve already had people try meditating on tatami, and they loved it. Some said they felt a deep sense of relaxation just by sitting on it. It was a moment that reaffirmed tatami’s natural soothing power.
04
What is your ultimate goal?
"I’m particularly interested in tatami’s scent. Many people say they love the smell of tatami, yet there are hardly any products that capture that scent. I want to refine scent technology and develop products that utilize the calming aroma of tatami.
Scent is closely linked to memory. When people smell tatami, they might recall the houses they grew up in or memories from the past. I want to cherish that feeling and spread the scent of tatami across the world.
Bringing Tatami Culture to the World
The scent of tatami, derived from rush grass (igusa), is known for its relaxing properties. However, there are still very few products that allow people to enjoy this fragrance long-term. Mr. Tanaka is working on developing items like aroma diffusers and room fragrances that bring tatami’s soothing scent into everyday life.
He is also planning workshops and events to pass down tatami culture to the next generation, both in Japan and abroad.
Mr. Tanaka’s journey to share Japan’s traditional culture with the world is just beginning. We look forward to seeing where his passion takes him next!