If you’re new to Japan or new to sleeping on a futon, choosing the right one for you can feel confusing. Traditional shikibuton are only a few inches thick, need regular airing and are very differently from Western mattresses. Our guide rounds up the best futons in Japan to make it easier for you to consider your firmness preference, floor type, how often you plan to roll it up, and the materials.
Small spaces don’t have to be uncomfortable. You can also check out our picks for the best room fans in Japan.
Nishikawa’s MILD SOFT futon mattress pad is designed for people who want a comfortable, easy-to-handle option that still feels high-quality. Made in Japan and filled with Nishikawa’s signature wool, it offers gentle softness without feeling flimsy, and the cotton outer fabric is treated with antibacterial protection to stay fresh for daily use. The soft beige gradient and subtle botanical pattern give it a calm, elegant look that fits into both Japanese and Western-style rooms. With a long track record of high reviews, it’s a reliable upgrade if you want a futon pad that balances comfort, cleanliness and durability.
Size: Single (100 × 210 cm), Double (140 x 210cm)
Price: From ¥26,400
Best for: People who want a soft mattress, and who prefer natural materials and antibacterial fabric.
Not ideal for: People who prefer very firm support, or anyone who needs an ultra-light futon for daily folding and storage.
This traditional Japanese futon (wabuton) is handcrafted in Kagawa using time-honored techniques and filled with 100% high-quality U.S. rice cotton. Rice cotton has a naturally soft, springy feel and revives beautifully when aired in the sun, which is why these futons stay comfortable for years with proper care. The off-white design is classic and straightforward, and each purchase comes with a free 100% cotton cover so you can use it right away. Because it’s a fully cotton, hand-stuffed futon, it’s heavier than modern polyester options and not meant for machine washing. Still, it’s good with regular sun-drying and has a long-lasting design.
Size: From 150 x 200 cm – 190 x 200 cm
Price: From ¥25,800
Best for: People who want a true traditional Japanese futon and those who are on the taller side, as this one is slightly longer than others on this list.
Not ideal for: People who want a lightweight futon for storage, or for hot sleepers who prefer high airflow polyester futons.
This washable futon is designed for people who want something on a budget that’s practical, easy to care for and comfortable enough for everyday use. Its simple edge-free shape makes it easy to fold and store, and the outer fabric is made from durable polyester that holds up well to frequent handling. Inside, a firm 3 cm fiber layer reduces direct contact with the floor and adds a soft, sinking feel when you lie down, which gives it a cushioned, enveloping quality without becoming too heavy. Because the entire futon is washable, it works well for small apartments or homes where bedding needs to be kept fresh. It’s also mite-resistant, deodorizing and antibacterial.
Size: 100 × 210
Price: From ¥3,401 to ¥3,819
Best for: People who want a washable, lightweight futonon a budget.
Not ideal for: People looking for a traditional cotton shikibuton or those who prefer a very firm sleeping surface.
This futon from Ofuton Kobo is one of the thicker “super volume” styles, designed for people who prefer a more sturdy sleeping surface. It’s built with three layers, including Teijin’s Aqufit ECO filling, which is known for being anti-mite, antibacterial, deodorizing, sweat-absorbing and quick-drying. This combination helps the futon stay clean inside and out, especially if you tend to sweat at night or live in a humid home. The peach-skin polyester exterior feels soft and smooth, and the whole piece is handcrafted in Japan, resulting in a denser, more stable feel than most mass-produced futons.
Size: From 100 x 200 cm (single) – 140 x 210 cm (double long)
Price: From ¥5,900
Best for: People who want a thick, mattress-like futon with strong antibacterial and quick-drying properties
Not ideal for: People who prefer washable futons.
This MyeFoam health mattress is made from high-rebound urethane foam designed to distribute body weight evenly, which helps reduce pressure on areas like the shoulders, waist and lower back. The medium firmness and smooth-top surface give it a stable, balanced feel and many people choose this type of foam when they want support without the heaviness of cotton-filled futons. The urethane layer also helps maintain a consistent posture through the night, which can be helpful for sleepers dealing with stiffness or fatigue. The polyester cover is simple to spot-clean, and if there’s any initial urethane scent, airing it outdoors in the shade usually clears it quickly.
Size: From 97 × 197 – 140 x 197
Price: From ¥5,980
Best for: Sleepers who want balanced support for shoulder or back discomfort, and anyone who prefers a lightweight, low-profile foam futon.
Not ideal for: People who want a traditional cotton feel for floor sleeping.
You might also be interested in our guide to the best sleeping aids in Japan.
AloJapan.com