Get up close to the process of making handmade Japanese-style bedding in this demonstration from Niwa Takuya, a 5th-generation futon maker.

The Japanese word ‘futon’ indicates a complete bedding set, including a mattress and duvet, both of which are foldable, making them easy to store after use.

Niwa demonstrates the craft of making futon, assembling and layering cotton sheets before shaping them into their three-dimensional form. He also showcases how to make a Zen zabuton – a large and sturdy zabuton (sitting futon) designed specifically to offer excellent support for mediation practice.

Niwa will also participate in a talk and demonstration event on 14 November and lead zabuton workshops on 15 and 16 November.

This event is part of the Spotlight on Local Japan programme supported by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), which accepts applications from potential collaborators based in Japan to co-create cultural events presenting Japan’s regional diversity at Japan House London.

Please note that filming and photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please contact us online or contact a member of the team on site.

 

About the Speaker

Born in 1978, Niwa Takuya is a futon artisan (5th- generation Head of Niwa Futon and First-Class National Certified Bedding Craftsperson). After graduating from university, he joined the Niwa Futon Shop in 2004. In 2011, he won the overall championship in the bedding industry’s Skill Grand Prix (the earliest win for a new futon artisan starting their career) and received the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare Award. He is Aichi Representative for the Lexus New Takumi Project. In 2022, he became the youngest person in the bedding category to receive the Award for Outstandingly Skilled Workers.

---