Explore

Why Do Japanese People Sleep on the Floor Instead of Beds? Here’s the Surprising Reason Everyone Wants to Experience at Least Once

Have you ever wondered why Japanese people often choose to sleep on the floor rather than on a bed? Let's explore the reasons behind this preference!

Administrator

14 December, 2023

131

Make the most of small living spaces

In the land of the rising sun, it is well-known that space is limited and the population is dense. According to the latest world population statistics, Japan has one of the highest population densities in the world. As a result, building houses and owning property requires a large economic source. Additionally, in urban areas, homes are more expensive, so utilizing floor sleeping space can be advantageous if the living area is not spacious.

Ensure safety for children

For families with young children, sleeping on the floor can be very convenient. In particular, the Japanese believe that sleeping on the floor is safer for young children. The reason is that, when using a bed, if parents are not attentive, a baby could roll off the bed, fall, or get trapped in the bed frame.

Save money

Japanese people are known for their diligence and thriftiness. Instead of taking up extra space and spending money buying a bed and mattress, all you need to invest in is a mat for the summer and a small blanket and mattress for the winter. Therefore, sleeping on the floor can save you a lot of money.

Beneficial for health

Despite the predominantly cold climate in Japan, people still prefer sleeping on the floor and believe that it is beneficial for their health. According to numerous studies by Japanese experts, sleeping on the floor offers great health benefits. Furthermore, sleeping on the floor helps straighten the spine of the elderly, preventing it from being curved or crooked due to sleeping on a bed or mattress.

Quickly detect earthquakes

Japan is a country that frequently experiences both large and small earthquakes. Sleeping on the floor allows Japanese people to feel ground movements more easily and find shelter immediately.

Additionally, without any obstruction and with the proximity of the bed and the floor, people can also escape faster.

A tradition spanning thousands of years

One of the reasons why Japanese people do not sleep on beds is because it has been a tradition for thousands of years, passed down from generation to generation. A habit deeply ingrained in people’s minds is difficult to change.

In fact, the habit of sleeping on the floor in Japan has its own name, “Tatami culture,” and is still widely used by the Japanese people today.