Second Life: Series 11 !
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Kyoto Zabuton Cushion - Hikizome Linen
Hikizome: Painting the Colors of Kyoto onto Timeless Comfort
With a history spanning nearly 1,000 years, the Zabuton (座布団) holds a distinguished place in Japanese culture. In earlier eras, it was far more than a simple floor cushion; it was a symbol of status and authority, reserved for the Imperial Court, Shoguns, and high-ranking Buddhist priests.
Today, the zabuton has seamlessly integrated into daily life. While providing physical comfort, it also embodies profound cultural values: kutsurogi—a sense of deep relaxation—and omotenashi, the art of welcoming guests with sincere care and understated grace.
For our fabric, we utilize Hikizome (引き染め), or "pull-dyeing." In this traditional Japanese technique, fabric is stretched taut while artisans hand-paint water and pigment with a brush to create a delicate, ethereal blurring effect. Also known as bokashi-zome ("blur-dyeing"), this method results in a soft, painterly finish that cannot be replicated by machines.
We are proud to introduce two exclusive colors inspired by iconic sightseeing landmarks in Kyoto. These hand-dyed textiles offer a perfect harmony of traditional craft and the classic Kyoto zabuton aesthetic.
Size
Add Optional Corner Tassels
Add Optional Water-Repellent Treatment
- Size
-
S: 50x55cm, M: 55x59cm, L: 59x63cm
*Please note: XL size is unavailable due to fabric width constraints.
*Sizes are approximate
*Looking for a custom size? Please feel free to contact us.
- Material (Fabric)
-
100% Linen (Hikizome dyeing)
*Please note: The specific placement and appearance of the gradation are determined by our artisans. Due to the nature of the fabric, the gradation on your unique piece may differ slightly from the product photos.
- Filling
- 100% Cotton
- Weight
- S: 1.1kg, M: 1.3kg, L: 1.5kg
-
Tassel: 100% Silk
*Please note: This linen zabuton features a center tassel only and does not include corner tassels by default. To add four corner tassels, please select "Yes" under "Add optional corner tassels".
Tassel colors are carefully selected by Takaokaya. If you would like to add corner tassels or have a specific color preference, please leave a note with your order.
Made in Japan (Kyoto)
All of our products are made-to-order. Each piece is handcrafted specifically for you once your order is confirmed. Please allow approximately 14-20 business days for production before your item is shipped.
- Lead times may vary depending on current workshop volume and specific customizations, such as embroidery, Hanakomon, or water-repellent finishing.
- Delivery times vary by country and carrier.
- If you have a specific deadline, please feel free to contact us (intl@takaoka-kyoto.jp). We will do our best to accommodate your request and expedite your order where possible.
Our craftsmen and women carefully craft each piece to ensure the highest level of comfort, and we thank you for your patience while awaiting its arrival.
Handling & Care
This product contains cotton filling. To ensure its longevity, please follow these care instructions:
Washing
- Do not wash at home. This item is not suitable for home laundering.
- Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, gently dab the area with a damp cloth as soon as possible. Avoid rubbing harshly, as this may cause the color to bleed or fade.
- Professional Cleaning: If deep cleaning is necessary, please consult a professional cleaner specializing in futons or heavy bedding.
Drying
- Sun drying is possible. However, please be aware that dark-colored items may fade if exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Storage
- Store in a well-ventilated area. * Before long-term storage, we recommend drying the item in the sun to remove any lingering moisture.
- Moisture Prevention: Cotton filling is sensitive to humidity. To prevent moisture buildup and mold, do not store in airtight plastic bags. Instead, use a breathable material such as a non-woven fabric bag.
Important Notes on Product
- Handcrafted Quality: Each of our products is handcrafted by skilled artisans—from cutting and sewing to filling and finishing. As a result, there may be slight variations in size, shape, weight, and firmness between individual pieces. We appreciate your understanding of these unique, handmade qualities.
- Natural Wear and Cushioning: Since this product is filled with cotton, the degree of compression over time will vary depending on the frequency of use, the user’s body type, and how the item is handled. Please understand that settling (loss of loft) is a natural characteristic of cotton filling and should be expected over time.
- Static and Fiber Migration: Due to the nature of cotton filling, friction against clothing or other fabrics may cause static electricity. This can occasionally cause fine cotton fibers to work their way through the outer fabric. We appreciate your understanding of this material trait.
Hikizome: Painting the Colors of Kyoto onto Timeless Comfort
With a history spanning nearly 1,000 years, the Zabuton (座布団) holds a distinguished place in Japanese culture. In earlier eras, it was far more than a simple floor cushion; it was a symbol of status and authority, reserved for the Imperial Court, Shoguns, and high-ranking Buddhist priests.
Today, the zabuton has seamlessly integrated into daily life. While providing physical comfort, it also embodies profound cultural values: kutsurogi—a sense of deep relaxation—and omotenashi, the art of welcoming guests with sincere care and understated grace.
For our fabric, we utilize Hikizome (引き染め), or "pull-dyeing." In this traditional Japanese technique, fabric is stretched taut while artisans hand-paint water and pigment with a brush to create a delicate, ethereal blurring effect. Also known as bokashi-zome ("blur-dyeing"), this method results in a soft, painterly finish that cannot be replicated by machines.
We are proud to introduce two exclusive colors inspired by iconic sightseeing landmarks in Kyoto. These hand-dyed textiles offer a perfect harmony of traditional craft and the classic Kyoto zabuton aesthetic.
Size
Add Optional Corner Tassels
Add Optional Water-Repellent Treatment
All of our products are made-to-order. Each piece is handcrafted specifically for you once your order is confirmed. Please allow approximately 14-20 business days for production before your item is shipped.
- Lead times may vary depending on current workshop volume and specific customizations, such as embroidery, Hanakomon, or water-repellent finishing.
- Delivery times vary by country and carrier.
- If you have a specific deadline, please feel free to contact us (intl@takaoka-kyoto.jp). We will do our best to accommodate your request and expedite your order where possible.
Our craftsmen and women carefully craft each piece to ensure the highest level of comfort, and we thank you for your patience while awaiting its arrival.
Handling & Care
This product contains cotton filling. To ensure its longevity, please follow these care instructions:
Washing
- Do not wash at home. This item is not suitable for home laundering.
- Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, gently dab the area with a damp cloth as soon as possible. Avoid rubbing harshly, as this may cause the color to bleed or fade.
- Professional Cleaning: If deep cleaning is necessary, please consult a professional cleaner specializing in futons or heavy bedding.
Drying
- Sun drying is possible. However, please be aware that dark-colored items may fade if exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Storage
- Store in a well-ventilated area. * Before long-term storage, we recommend drying the item in the sun to remove any lingering moisture.
- Moisture Prevention: Cotton filling is sensitive to humidity. To prevent moisture buildup and mold, do not store in airtight plastic bags. Instead, use a breathable material such as a non-woven fabric bag.
Important Notes on Product
- Handcrafted Quality: Each of our products is handcrafted by skilled artisans—from cutting and sewing to filling and finishing. As a result, there may be slight variations in size, shape, weight, and firmness between individual pieces. We appreciate your understanding of these unique, handmade qualities.
- Natural Wear and Cushioning: Since this product is filled with cotton, the degree of compression over time will vary depending on the frequency of use, the user’s body type, and how the item is handled. Please understand that settling (loss of loft) is a natural characteristic of cotton filling and should be expected over time.
- Static and Fiber Migration: Due to the nature of cotton filling, friction against clothing or other fabrics may cause static electricity. This can occasionally cause fine cotton fibers to work their way through the outer fabric. We appreciate your understanding of this material trait.
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how to enjoy Kutsurogi
Relaxation in Every Style
As times change, this piece of traditional Japanese hospitality remains constant. Today, zabutons are an essential part of daily life in modern Japan, offering comfort and relaxation for floor seating. Beyond the home, they are also widely used in meditation practices to deepen focus and mindfulness.
ALL MADE BY HAND
The Importance of Our Craftsmen
characteristics of kyoto zabuton
Not all Zabutons are made the same, even though they are all used for floor seating.
Here’s how to tell a Kyoto Zabuton from ordinary zabutons—and why it offers a more comfortable sitting experience.
”SAMPO-TOJI”: THREE-PRONGED STITCH
The three-pronged stitch on top of the Zabuton, known as toji, helps keep the cotton filling evenly distributed.
Unlike ordinary Zabutons, which typically use a cross-shaped toji, the Y-shaped toji is unique to Kyoto Zabutons. The tail of the Y indicates the front of the Zabuton, making it easier for the user to orient the cushion.
”KAMABOKO-GATA”: DOME SHAPE
The front of a freshly made Zabuton has a gentle dome shape, reminiscent of kamaboko fish cake, while the back remains flat. This distinctive form is created by placing more cotton at the center—where the body’s weight naturally rests—to provide exceptional sitting comfort.
Each Zabuton is carefully crafted by skilled artisans, with the user’s comfort always in mind.
As the Zabuton gradually settles over time, its surface remains stable and smooth. Artisans capable of creating Zabuton that age so evenly and beautifully flat are considered truly skilled.
Please note:This linen zabuton features a center tassel only and does not include corner tassels by default.
To add four corner tassels, please select "Yes" under "Add optional corner tassels".
MAKE IT YOURS
Sizes
Compact and cozy—perfect for smaller spaces
The modern standard—ideal for contemporary living
A traditional, classic size that is slightly larger than Size M
*Please note: XL size is unavailable due to fabric width constraints.
Fabric
About Hikizome
Hikizome (literally “pull-dyeing,” referring to the motion of drawing a brush across the fabric) is a traditional Japanese dyeing technique in which a bolt of fabric is stretched taut and carefully brushed by hand with layers of water and dye. This method is also known as bokashizome, meaning “gradual shading” or “blur dye.”
Each piece is hand-dyed by skilled artisans, one by one. This careful process embodies the beauty of tradition.
Available in two Hikizome shades—Kamogawa Blue and Arashiyama Bamboo Green. Each is inspired by Kyoto’s iconic scenery, from the gentle flow of the Kamo River to the serene paths of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Enjoy your moments of rest with colors that reflect your personal style.
