Our Story
Our Vision
"To pass tatami culture down to future generations."
Our Mission
”To bring the peace of tatami culture to the world, while supporting traditional tatami craftsmen and the industry.”
How It Started
During his studies abroad, Ryuki realized the unique charm of Japanese culture, especially the Tatami mats of his hometown. He felt a strong desire to share this with the world. Yusuke, always fascinated by life overseas, dreamt of bringing Japanese craftsmanship to a global audience. Their shared vision led them to embark on a journey together. As they explored, they discovered the beauty and benefits of Tatami, and Kohaku was born with the mission to introduce this tradition to the 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.
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.
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.