If you already have been into a traditional Japanese tatami room, you might have seen a tiny alcove with some decorations like flowers, paintings or potteries at the back of the room. Well it’s a Tokonoma !
What was the originally purpose of Tokonoma ?
Tokonoma is located at the back of the room and it is raised slightly from the floor, it’s the focal point of the room such as fireplace in western houses. Back in time, in the Palace this spot was only for the Emperor as it is reserved for the person with the higher status. Building rooms with Tokonoma became really famous around the 16th century and the place was still reserved for the guest with the higher status.
Today, where can I see Tokonoma ?
You might enjoy Tokonoma in traditional tatami rooms used for tea ceremony for example, in temples, shrines or in a ryokan. Here, at the Mitsuki Ryokan, you can see a Tokonoma in the breakfast room or in the room upstairs. Unfortunately, in modern houses you won’t see so much Tokonoma as people are looking for more storage spaces.
What kind of decorations can we put on a Tokonoma ?
The decorations will evolved regarding the season as we traditionally put fresh flowers mixed with elements of nature such as wood, this kind of flower arrangement is called Ikebana. You can also put some Japanese potteries, painting or calligraphy, with the purpose to always find balance and peace between those elements and the house environment.
To experiment Japanese traditions in every ways, stay with us at the Mitsuki Kyoto Ryokan :