A shikibuton is the mattress layer you lie on; a kakebuton is the quilt or comforter you sleep under. Traditional Japanese bedding combines the two with a pillow and removable covers. HIMARI and SORA are shikibuton: a kakebuton and a pillow are separate pieces of bedding.
The traditional Japanese set
- Shikibuton: the sleeping layer, laid on a firm surface at night and folded away by day.
- Kakebuton: the top quilt, heavier in winter and lighter in summer.
- Makura: the pillow.
- Sheet or fitted cover: washable protection for the shikibuton.
- Moisture pad: often laid underneath on modern floors.
A note on the word “futon”
In Japan, futon refers to this bedding as a whole. Outside Japan, the word is often used for a thick mattress on a folding sofa frame, which is a different product from a traditional shikibuton.
Choosing covers for HIMARI or SORA
HIMARI 日葵 measures 210 cm long and SORA 宙 200 cm long, in Japanese widths. Choose sheets and fitted covers by these centimetre dimensions rather than by a local mattress name.