Second Life: Series 11 !
The wait is over! Series 11 has officially dropped!
Kyoto Zabuton Cushion
three characteristics of kyoto zabuton
Not all Zabutons are made the same, even though they are all used for floor seating.
Here’s how to tell a Kyoto Zabuton from ordinary zabutons—and why it offers a more comfortable sitting experience.
”SAMPO-TOJI”: THREE-PRONGED STITCH
The three-pronged stitch on top of the Zabuton, known as toji, helps keep the cotton filling evenly distributed.
Unlike ordinary Zabutons, which typically use a cross-shaped toji, the Y-shaped toji is unique to Kyoto Zabutons. The tail of the Y indicates the front of the Zabuton, making it easier for the user to orient the cushion.
”KAMABOKO-GATA”: DOME SHAPE
The front of a freshly made Zabuton has a gentle dome shape, reminiscent of kamaboko fish cake, while the back remains flat. This distinctive form is created by placing more cotton at the center—where the body’s weight naturally rests—to provide exceptional sitting comfort.
Each Zabuton is carefully crafted by skilled artisans, with the user’s comfort always in mind.
As the Zabuton gradually settles over time, its surface remains stable and smooth. Artisans capable of creating Zabuton that age so evenly and beautifully flat are considered truly skilled.
”SUMI-FUSA”: TASSELLED CORNERS
The tassels at the corners of a Zabuton, called sumifusa, are more than decoration—they are a traditional technique that keeps the cotton from slipping out of the corners.
Since ancient times in Japan, these tassels have also been believed to protect the person sitting on the Zabuton from evil spirits, adding a subtle layer of care and thoughtfulness to every cushion.
Did you know?
You might think that Zabuton cushions are square, but they are actually rectangular. Traditionally, Zabuton are made with a slightly longer depth than width because when sitting in seiza style, the length from below the knees to the toes is longer than the width between the knees.
Sizes
Available in four traditional Japanese sizes: S, M, L, and XL.
Need a custom size? We’d be happy to create one for you—please contact us!
Compact and cozy—perfect for smaller spaces
S: 50x55cm
The modern standard—ideal for contemporary living
M: 55x59cm
A classic, slightly larger than size M.
L: 59x63cm
Spacious and generous—also suitable for a Buddhist altar
XL: 64x68cm
- Pre-Filling Dimensions: Listed sizes represent the flat fabric casing before stuffing. Once filled, the cushion expands in loft, slightly reducing the finished length and width.
- Handcrafted Variation: Because each Zabuton is individually filled and crafted by hand, final dimensions and thickness may vary slightly.
- Size Availability: XL sizing may not be available for certain fabrics due to width constraints.
