Why do Japanese people prefer sleeping on the floor to sleeping in bed?

People always have the habit of sleeping on a bed with a soft mattress, however, Japanese people rarely sleep on the bed. Here are the reasons why Japanese people prefer to sleep on the floor.

In Japan, most families have tatami mats. (Source: Sohu)

Make use of living space

In Japan, most families have tatami mats. This is a type of household furniture with many functions. Tatami functions like a regular carpet, can be used as a place to receive guests when they come to visit, and can also be used as a bed when you want to rest and sleep.

Furthermore, Japan is a densely populated country, and their rooms are small, so using tatami mats to sleep is a way to save space and minimize living space. Most houses have heating systems, making them very warm even in winter.

Early Earthquake Detection

We know that Japan is located in an area where earthquakes often occur. Sleeping on tatami mats, they can quickly feel the shaking of the ground and get up immediately to escape. It can also avoid rolling off the bed or hitting the ground, reducing the risk of injury.

Good for bones and joints

The Japanese believe that sleeping on a mattress, although initially comfortable, after a while the mattress will sag, causing uneven pressure on the bones, causing the spine to curve and back pain. Sleeping on a tatami mat has a relatively hard texture, which is very good for bone development and keeps the spine straight.

Thu Hien (Source: Sohu)

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