NIWA FUTON
Thought
Niwa Futon believes there are certain things we can modify with the times and other things we should let be.
The traditional techniques that Niwa Futon has inherited from its founder in the Meiji Period have been passed down unaltered over the years to the present day as a matter of course. These excellent techniques developed by our predecessors should not be tampered with.
On the other hand, traditional futons that were once an inherent part of Japanese culture have become less common as modern-day bedding. They have often been replaced by beds and feather quilts.
Niwa Futon wants to reintroduce the comfort of futons made of cotton and floss silk (much cherished in the original Japanese culture) into present-day life by adjusting their style and value from time to time. We would also like to apply our inherited tradition to today’s manufacturing techniques based on our history of production in the Bishu region.
History
The cotton-beating family business founded by Tadashichi, who died in 1887 (Meiji 7), began retailing as "Niwa Futon" in 1933.
The knowledge and skills underpinning the whole process, from cotton-beating to futon production, make up the traditional techniques that have survived to this day as Niwa Futon.
Our particular focus on the blending ratio of different types of cotton, a tradition passed down from our time as a cotton beater, is something unique to Niwa Futon.
The current fifth-generation master now managing the company is not only turning out futons but also trying out new products using futon technology, such as pillows and sofas.
Philosophy
Niwa Futon was established 150 years ago and for their futon, it begins with making the materials, which they are very particular about. They make the futon cotton soft with adequate elasticity and moisture retention by selecting cotton with different fiber length and thickness, making use of its characteristics and mixing it to a unique ratio. The whole process of making the futon is done manually, using natural materials. The futon made by Japan's No.1 craftsman, is beautifully-finished, less apt to go out of shape and soft, offering great comfortable sleep. They make comfortable futon with a shape that can only be created by hand.
Futons Detail
Elegant style and excellent functionality: these futons for life-long use become your favorite place for a regular good night’s sleep.
For futon mattresses that support the weight of our bodies, cottons of varying hardness are used in layers. Resilient cotton is used which does not lose its springiness even if strong pressure is applied. The easy-to-get-used-to gentle touch, but also the resilient hardness maintained by the carefully blended cottons, guarantee you a comfortable feeling of stability.
Zen Zabutons Detail
Delicate shapes unique to hand-made products. A comfortable feel combined with esthetic beauty. Zabutons (sitting cushions), each one created by hand using the same techniques as futon-making. The process begins with the right choice of materials. Carefully selected cottons are then combined according to a unique mix ratio before being crafted into a beautiful shape that emphasizes comfort. All formed using the precision techniques of seasoned craftsman, our Zabutons preserve their beautiful shape to safeguard their springiness and comfortable feel. They are therefore products with many years’ durability.
KYO-SOKU Detail
KYO-SOKU is a tool for relaxing that easily blends in with modern life and makes use of futon-making techniques. The solid yet soft feel of buckwheat husks gently wrapped in cotton wadding provides support to your body as an armrest or backrest on the floor or sofa, whatever your chosen sitting posture.
