Igusa Mat for Children

This soft mat is handmade of igusa (rush grass), a material which historically has been used for making tatami mats. Woven using igusa grown in Kyūshū – Japan’s southernmost main island – this mat is highly moisture absorbent, and has a relaxing, fresh fragrance. Treated with essential oils extracted from Aomori hiba wood – a species of cypress native to Japan – it has enhanced antibacterial and deodorising properties. By avoiding the standard mud-dyeing process employed to dry regular igusa, the rushes used in this mat retain smooth, dirt-resistant and chemical-free surfaces. The inside of the mat is cushioned with a 1.5 cm thick cotton layer, making it softer and more comfortable for small children.

Size: L120 cm x W70 cm

Kyūshū and Okinawa

This is Japan’s south-west region including the island of Kyūshū and the sub-tropical island chain of Okinawa. Kyūshū was an early centre of Japanese civilization, and offers many historic treasures, modern cities and volcanic natural beauty. It is home to the ports of Kagoshima, Nagasaki and Fukuoka, the porcelain manufacturing centre in Arita and the Tanegashima Space Center launch site.