The Team

  • Yusuke | Co-CEO

    Yusuke felt a deep sense of mission as he observed the growing global interest in Japanese culture, contrasted by the declining demand for traditional industries within Japan.

    Through conversations with igusa farmers and tatami craftsmen, he witnessed firsthand the challenges of a shrinking domestic market and the shortage of successors. This inspired him to believe that “precisely because demand is declining in Japan, sharing the appeal of tatami with the world can make a meaningful contribution to the industry.”

    Driven by this conviction, he co-founded Kohaku with the aim of delivering Japan’s proud tatami culture in a form that fits modern lifestyles. His vision is to preserve the charm of tatami, pass it down to future generations, and spread its beauty to people all over the world

  • Ryuki | Co-CEO

    Ryuki rediscovered the beauty of Japanese culture while studying abroad in the United States. Through his research, he learned that many traditional crafts, despite their exceptional techniques, are facing declining demand and a shortage of successors, pushing them to the brink of extinction. 


    His hometown of Kumamoto is renowned for its rush grass, but the rush grass and tatami industry is no exception to these challenges. Rush grass is eco-friendly and offers many functional benefits. Moreover, he believes that the sense of calm Japanese people feel when sitting on tatami should be shared with people around the world. 


    He is dedicated to promoting the charm of rush grass and tatami globally, supporting rush grass farmers and the tatami industry, and ensuring they are passed down to future generations.

  • Hena | CMO

    Hena joined Kohaku, inspired by her deep admiration for sustainable, nature-sourced materials as an eco-friendly alternative for modern living. 


    Her commitment to sustainability grew as she uncovered the challenges faced by igusa farmers and tatami craftsmen, whose livelihoods and invaluable traditions were at risk of disappearing. 


    Believing in Kohaku’s mission to honor these artisans and promote sustainability, Hena saw the potential for the company to redefine how traditional materials can harmonize with contemporary lifestyles.


    She is dedicated to championing Kohaku’s vision of cultural preservation and sustainability, ensuring that natural, eco-conscious practices are safeguarded while connecting heritage with the needs of a modern world.

Challenges in the Tatami Industry

The tatami industry is facing a steady decline in both production volume and the number of skilled craftsmen. This downturn can be attributed to the westernization of Japanese architecture and the increasing availability of cheaper, imported tatami mats. Additionally, the aging population has led to a shortage of successors, further exacerbating the industry's difficulties. At Kohaku, we are committed to sustaining and revitalizing the tatami industry by creating new demand and ensuring its future.

What is "Kohaku"?

"Kohaku" means amber in Japanese, a gemstone formed over time from fossilized tree resin. Just like Tatami mats, which develop a beautiful amber hue when cherished and used over many years, we hope our customers will enjoy them until they achieve this elegant color. We aspire to elevate Tatami, a cultural gem, and share it with the world, transforming it into a true treasure.

Sustainability

At Kohaku, we are committed to using 100% domestically grown Japanese igusa (rush grass). During its growth, igusa absorbs approximately 2.63 tons of CO₂ per acre, equivalent to the carbon dioxide emissions produced by a family of four over 14 months. By choosing igusa, we are contributing to a healthier planet and supporting environmental sustainability.