Second Life: Series 11 !
The wait is over! Series 11 has officially dropped!
Kyoto Zabuton Cushion - Aizome-Fu
A Heritage of Comfort, Refined for Modern Living
With a history spanning nearly 1,000 years, the zabuton (座布団) holds a distinguished place in Japanese culture.
In earlier times, it was far more than a floor cushion—its presence symbolized status and authority. It was reserved for members of the imperial court, including emperors and shoguns, as well as esteemed Buddhist priests.
Today, it has quietly transitioned into daily life across Japan. While offering comfort, it also reflects deeper cultural values: kutsurogi—a gentle sense of relaxation and ease—and omotenashi, the art of welcoming others with sincere care and understated grace.
This piece features our Aizome-fu fabric series, inspired by the deep, captivating hues of traditional indigo dye (aizome, 藍染め). Revered for centuries and derived from the leaves of the Indigofera tinctoria plant, indigo embodies a quiet beauty. The Aizome-fu series reinterprets this enduring aesthetic—without the use of actual indigo.
A heritage of elegance, softly woven into modern living.
Size
Option: Water-Repellent Treatment
- Size
-
S: 50x55cm, M: 55x59cm, L: 59x63cm, XL: 64x68cm
*Sizes are approximate
*Looking for a custom size? Please feel free to contact us.
- Material (Fabric)
- 100% Cotton
- Filling
- 100% Cotton
- Weight
- S: 1.2kg, M: 1.4kg, L: 1.6kg, XL: 1.9kg
-
Tassel: 100% Silk *Please note: Tassel colors are selected by Takaokaya. If you have a specific color preference, please leave a note with your order
Made in Japan
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.
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.
A Heritage of Comfort, Refined for Modern Living
With a history spanning nearly 1,000 years, the zabuton (座布団) holds a distinguished place in Japanese culture.
In earlier times, it was far more than a floor cushion—its presence symbolized status and authority. It was reserved for members of the imperial court, including emperors and shoguns, as well as esteemed Buddhist priests.
Today, it has quietly transitioned into daily life across Japan. While offering comfort, it also reflects deeper cultural values: kutsurogi—a gentle sense of relaxation and ease—and omotenashi, the art of welcoming others with sincere care and understated grace.
This piece features our Aizome-fu fabric series, inspired by the deep, captivating hues of traditional indigo dye (aizome, 藍染め). Revered for centuries and derived from the leaves of the Indigofera tinctoria plant, indigo embodies a quiet beauty. The Aizome-fu series reinterprets this enduring aesthetic—without the use of actual indigo.
A heritage of elegance, softly woven into modern living.
Size
Option: 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.
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
three 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.
”SUMI-FUSA”: TASSELLED CORNERS
The tassels at the corners of a Zabuton, called sumifusa, are more than decoration—they are a traditional technique that keeps the cotton from slipping out of the corners.
Since ancient times in Japan, these tassels have also been believed to protect the person sitting on the Zabuton from evil spirits, adding a subtle layer of care and thoughtfulness to every cushion.
MAKE IT YOURS
Sizes
Available in four traditional Japanese sizes: S, M, L, and XL.
Need a custom size? We’d be happy to create one for you—please contact us!
Compact and cozy—perfect for smaller spaces
S: 50x55cm
The modern standard—ideal for contemporary living
M: 55x59cm
A traditional, classic size that is slightly larger than Size M
L: 59x63cm
Spacious and generous—also suitable for a Buddhist altar
XL: 64x68cm
Fabric
Kumotori
Take
Seikai
Sakura
Shima
Asanoha
M
The pillow is very soft, supportive, and just the right size. It took a little while to arrive, which was completely understandable considering the distance and the current global situation, but it was well worth the wait.
I’m especially impressed with the shape, the beautiful design, and the craftsmanship. I really appreciate the handmade aspect of the pillow, particularly the way the material is printed and finished.
Most importantly, it is very comfortable to sit on.
Thank you very much for creating such a wonderful product.
J
Absolutely delighted with the two zabutons. The quality and care making them is evident and gives the special touch to my living room that I was looking for.I only bought my flat recently after years of living in shared accommodation, and now I have been putting much care, love and thought into creating my new home, in which this beautiful zabutons fit as I dreamed. Thank you very much!!
Congratulations Juan on getting your own place! What an exciting journey to create a beautiful and comfortable space to call home and thank you for letting our Kyoto Zabuton Cushions be part of such an important milestone.
Happy Kutsurogi!
Valery
Team Takaokaya
A
Wonderful Kangu, Arigato Gozaimasu
Made me really happy to receive such quality products made with love from Japanese Artisans
C
I grew up in Japan, now live in the south. These zabuton are a throwback to my growing up where we sat on tatami and zabuton. I love the traditional Japanese pattern, textile, construction, and care to exceptional craftsmanship. To the Takaokaya family and team, thank you so much for this 'gift' which holds many special memories of Japan, my grandparents, my parents, and my culture.
Dear Cindy,
It is so heartwarming to know that our handcrafted zabutons help keep those special memories alive and keep you connected to your Japanese roots and culture.
Thank you for sharing and for the wonderful review. We hope that we will have an opportunity to host you in our workshop in Kyoto one day.
Happy Kutsurogi!
Valery
Team Takaokaya
M
Beautiful, outstanding quality cushions. I bought 3 of them. You can tell that they are made with quality craftsmanship and care. The company seems to really care about thier customers. I will probably be a live long customer. Thanks for the great cushions also faster than expected shipping
Welcome to the Takaokaya's Kutsurogi family, Matt!
Thank you for letting us know that you are happy and satisfied with the zabuton cushions we made you.
We are so glad that you can feel our sincerity and care through our craftsmanship!
Happy Kutsurogi,
Valery
Team Takaokaya
K
The Zabutons are so beautiful! Thank you!
G
Soft but firm, cushy and comfortable, looks good in my livingroom, solid craftsmanship, and durable materials!
Thank you Georg for the 5* review. Thank you for describing how our Kyoto Zabuton feels. We are happy that it looks good in your living room!
Happy Kutsurogi!
Valery
Team Takaokaya
J
Excellent service and product.
Thank you Jason for the 5* review and compliments on our service and product.
It is a great encouragement for everyone of us at Takaokaya!
Sincerely,
Valery
Team Takaokaya
D
Kyoto Zabuton Cushion | Aizome-Fu | Global Online Limited Edition
Thank you Dennis for rating our Kyoto Zabuton Cushion 5 stars! Hope you are enjoying relaxing on your zabuton!
Nanako
Team Takaokaya
