Second Life: Series 11 !
The wait is over! Series 11 has officially dropped!
FAQ for Shiki Futon
Size
We offer three standard sizes of Shiki Futon:
- Single: (W) 100 cm × (L) 210 cm
- Semi Double: (W) 120 cm × (L) 210 cm
- Double: (W) 140 cm × (L) 210 cm
The width and length listed above (and on each product page) refer to the flat dimensions of the outer fabric casing before stuffing. Once filled with cotton, the finished futon will measure approximately 7 cm narrower and 10 cm shorter. However, with regular use, the inner filling gradually settles and flattens, bringing its overall size closer to the original casing dimensions.
About the US Queen Size
The US Queen Size was created in response to customer requests. Its dimensions are 60 × 80 inches (152 × 203 cm), and the size stated here and on the product page refers to the finished size after stuffing, not the outer fabric casing size as mentioned above for the three standard sizes.
For more detailed information, please refer to our Sizing Guide.
If you have specific requirements for the finished size, feel free to contact us or leave a note when placing your order.
The thickness of the Shiki Futon is approximately 10 cm (3.9 in) for all sizes when freshly made and filled with plenty of air, measuring about 10 cm at its fullest point before use.
Please note that our futons are not foam mattresses with coils or springs. Due to the airy and fluffy nature of 100% cotton filling, it is difficult to specify an exact thickness. Unlike conventional bed mattresses, futons naturally compress and lose volume with daily use. As you use the futon, the cotton gradually settles and compresses under your body weight, transforming from a soft, airy futon into a firmer and supportive one over time. Eventually, the thickness may reduce to about half of its original height—this is a natural and expected characteristic of cotton futons.
Even as the futon becomes thinner, you can still enjoy the firm yet comfortable “resilience” unique to cotton filling. If you feel you need extra support, placing a thin urethane mat or similar under the futon can enhance comfort and provide a better night’s sleep. We recommend a medium-firm urethane mattress (neither too soft nor too hard) and suggest avoiding memory foam.
Each Shiki Futon is handmade, so the exact number of cotton layers can vary. Rather than counting layers, we carefully adjust the amount of cotton for each size to ensure the best balance of comfort and support.
On average, about 12–15 layers of cotton are used, depending on the size from Single to US Queen. Extra cotton is added to the center area where your body rests to provide better support and sleeping comfort.
The approximate weight (outer fabric + inner filling) of each Shiki Futon size is as follows:
- Single: approximately 8 kg
- Semi Double: approximately 9 kg
- Double: approximately 10 kg
- US Queen (Original): approximately 13 kg
- US Queen (1.5 Extra Filling): approximately 18 kg
Please note that the weight may vary slightly due to the natural characteristics of 100% cotton filling and the handmade process.
Yes, we can provide extra filling for all sizes of Shiki Futon, not only the US Queen size.
If you would like extra filling, please contact us with your preferred size, and we will be happy to provide a quotation. Contact Now
Yes, we do offer custom size Shiki Futons to accommodate special size requirements that are not covered by our standard sizes.
Please contact us with your requested dimensions, and we will be happy to assist you. >>>Contact us now
Material
Our Shiki Futons are made from 100% cotton for both the outer fabric and the inner filling.
Unfortunately, we do not currently offer organic cotton options for either the outer fabric or the inner filling, and we do not hold GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification.
Especially for the inner filling, our cotton supplier has informed us that organic cotton fibers are not fully mature at the time of harvesting. As a result, the cotton has less volume and tends to flatten more easily over time.
For this reason, we do not consider organic cotton to be suitable for our Shiki Futon mattress or topper, which are designed to provide proper support and long-term durability.
No. Our futons do not use flame retardant chemicals.
No, finished futons are not treated with any chemical finishing.
Care
Since our Shiki Futons are filled with 100% pure cotton, they cannot be washed at home. For easier cleaning, we recommend using a removable cover >>>Link, which can be washed regularly.
We also offer a water-repellent treatment service for an additional fee. This option is especially popular with customers who sleep with children or pets, as it provides extra protection while still allowing the use of a removable cover.
The reason we advise against washing the futon at home is the tumbling process used in standard washing machines, which may damage the product. Proper drying at home can also be very difficult.
Tumbling is a major issue for our products. If the futon is washed in a standard washing machine with tumbling, the cotton filling inside may shift and become uneven. As a result, the futon may lose its beautiful shape.
Another concern is drying. It is extremely difficult to dry the cotton filling completely at home. If the inside is not perfectly dried, the cotton may become hard over time, which could cause discomfort during use.
In Japan, however, we work with a professional cleaning company that is able to wash our products properly using the following methods:
- High-pressure steam cleaning
This method uses a fine steam mist to clean the futon. At the same time, a powerful vacuum dryer extracts moisture from underneath, ensuring that the futon is thoroughly dried. - Special centrifugal washing
This method uses a drum-type machine in which water is sprayed from a central pole. Centrifugal force is then used to remove dirty water and moisture while maintaining the shape of the futon.
Importantly, both methods avoid tumbling. This is the key point when washing our products.
If you are able to find a professional cleaning company that offers a similar process, it may be possible to wash your futon safely.
Since Shiki Futons are not washable, for light stains, gently dab the affected area with a clean, damp cloth. Please avoid rubbing. After cleaning, make sure the futon is completely air-dried in the sun or in a well-ventilated area.
For larger or more stubborn stains, we recommend consulting a professional laundry or futon-cleaning service for proper treatment.
To make daily care easier and for added peace of mind, we strongly recommend using a futon cover, which can be removed and washed regularly.
Tips for drying your futon
- Best weather
Choose a sunny, dry day with low humidity. - Best time of day
From around 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., when humidity is typically lower and drying is most effective. - How to dry
Make sure to air both sides of the futon so that sunlight reaches the entire surface.
To prevent fabric damage or fading, we recommend covering the futon with a cover or sheet while drying. - Handling care
Please avoid beating or hitting the futon forcefully, as this may damage the fabric or inner filling. Instead, gently shake the futon or lightly brush off surface dust.
We understand that drying a futon outdoors is not always possible, depending on your living environment. In such cases, we recommend airing your futon indoors in a well-ventilated space—for example, by draping it over a chair, sofa, or railing so that air can circulate freely on both sides.
It is said that a person releases about one cup of moisture through sweat during sleep. If a futon is left spread out on the floor and used in the same position day after day—what is known in Japanese as “manen-doko” (万年床), meaning a futon that is always left out—this moisture can become trapped between the futon and the floor. Over time, this may lead to mold or dust mites and can also cause damage to tatami mats or flooring, such as staining or deterioration.
For this reason, we do not recommend using a Shiki Futon as a permanent, always-left-out bed. Keeping your futon dry by airing, folding, or drying it regularly is essential, as proper moisture control helps maintain its fluffiness, comfort, and overall lifespan.
Alternatively, we recommend using a stick-type futon dryer, which many of us use at home. One example is the cado futon dryer “FOEHN 003,” a newer model that is compatible with overseas voltage. >>> Link
It is excellent for drying futons and also works well for warming them during the winter months. Members of the Takaokaya team also use this dryer for regular futon care.
Shipping
Yes, we ship worldwide. Please check the list below to see if we currently ship to your country.
Countries listed alphabetically:
Australia, Austria
Belgium, Bhutan, Bulgaria
Canada, Chile, China, Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland, France
Germany, Greece
Hong Kong, Hungary
Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy
Japan
Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg
Macao, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco
Nepal, Netherlands, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Norway
Oman
Philippines, Poland
Portugal,
Romania
Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland
Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey
United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States
Vietnam
If you don’t see your country, just contact us—we’ll be happy to help. >>>Contact us now
Please add your futon to the cart and proceed to checkout. After entering your shipping address, the shipping cost will be displayed before you make the payment.
If you are unable to see the shipping cost, please contact us and we will be happy to assist you. >>>Contact us now
The approximate shipping dimensions and weight for each Shiki Futon size are as follows:
- Single: 91 × 63 × 30 cm / 10 kg
- Semi Double: 91 × 55 × 31 cm / 11 kg
- Double: 91 × 63 × 32 cm / 12 kg
- US Queen (Original): 78 × 92 × 33 cm / 15 kg
- US Queen (With Extra Filling): 78 × 92 × 40 cm / 20 kg
Please note that these are approximate values and may vary slightly due to the natural characteristics of cotton and packaging.
We completely understand how you feel—shipping costs for futons can be surprisingly high, and we truly appreciate your concern.
We currently use three shipping providers: EMS (Japan Post), UPS, and DHL, and we choose the most suitable option depending on the destination country and package size.
EMS (Japan Post) calculates shipping fees based on actual weight, not volumetric weight. This makes EMS a more affordable option for bulky items like futons whenever it is available. However, EMS has strict size limitations that vary by country. If the packed futon exceeds these limits, we are unfortunately unable to use EMS and must switch to another carrier.
Shipping providers such as UPS and DHL calculate fees based on volumetric weight (also known as dimensional weight). This method takes into account both the size and the weight of the package. The volumetric weight is calculated using the package’s dimensions, and whichever is higher—actual weight or volumetric weight—becomes the billable weight.
For example, a single-size Shiki Futon weighs approximately 10 kg in actual weight, but its volumetric weight can be around 29 kg (box size: 91 × 63 × 30 cm when shipped by UPS). Since the volumetric weight is higher, it is used to determine the shipping cost.
*Please note that the exact calculation method varies slightly depending on the carrier.
We are always doing our best to find the most economical shipping solution available for each order. However, shipping rates are set by the carriers, and unfortunately, reducing these costs is largely beyond our control. That said, if you would like us to check alternative shipping options or discuss possible arrangements, please don’t hesitate to let us know. We would be happy to look into it together with you.
These charges are payable upon receiving the package. As explained in our International Shipping and Returns >>> Link, import-related fees such as customs duties, taxes, handling charges, or other applicable fees are determined and collected by the customs authorities in the destination country.
Unfortunately, we are unable to predict the amount of these fees in advance. The payment made to us covers the product and shipping costs only and does not include any additional import duties or taxes that may be imposed by customs.
Others
Firmness can feel different from person to person, so it is difficult to describe it with a single, exact answer.
Shiki Futons are made with 100% cotton filling, giving them a soft and natural feel—especially when freshly made, as they are fluffy and filled with plenty of air. This comfort is quite different from Western-style mattresses with coils or springs. As the cotton gradually settles and loses volume with use, the futon becomes firmer and more supportive over time while still maintaining its natural comfort.
Yes! Not only are our futons handmade, but all of our Kangu are also carefully crafted by Takaokaya’s skilled artisans
Takaokaya is located in Kyoto, Japan. All of our Kangu are handmade in our Kyoto workshop, and we ship directly from Kyoto to customers around the world.
It depends on how you purchase:
- If you buy the Shiki Futon Mattress alone from the product page, the futon does not come with a cover. Please purchase the cover separately. >>> Shiki Futon Mattress Cover
- If you buy the Shiki Futon Mattress and Cover Set, the futon does come with the cover included.>>> Shiki Futon Mattress and Cover Set
Our futons are not designed for medical purposes, and we unfortunately cannot guarantee that they will help with back pain or any other health concerns.
Our goal is simply to bring relaxation and comfort through natural materials and traditional craftsmanship. As our products are not medically certified or tested, we do not promote any healing or therapeutic benefits from using them. Our futons are intended as tools to help you relax and sleep comfortably.
That said, as makers, we cannot claim that our futons are good for back pain. However, some customers have shared their personal experiences in reviews, mentioning how using a futon felt supportive for issues such as back discomfort. These reviews reflect individual opinions and experiences, and may be helpful to read as a reference.
Our Shiki Futons are designed for a wide range of sleepers, including both side and back sleepers. However, comfort can vary depending on individual preferences, body type, and the level of support you are looking for.
As a maker, we cannot say with certainty that our futon will be suitable for every side sleeper. Side sleepers often have different needs in terms of softness and pressure relief around the shoulders and hips.
If you don’t mind, we would love to learn more about your preferences. Please feel free to let us know what kind of support or comfort you are looking for in a Shiki Futon as a side sleeper, and we will do our best to guide you toward the most suitable option.
From a safety perspective, we are unable to officially recommend using our Shiki Futon for a baby at this stage. In Japan, it is generally considered more appropriate for children around 3 to 4 years old, when they can move freely and change their sleeping position independently.