The Surviving Tradition of “Igusa (Rush) Cultivation”

2009.9.212019.4.23

Keeping the Tradition of Rush Cultivation

Kurashiki city and its surroundings is known for the production of “igusa” (rush) used to make “tatami” (Japanese traditional woven mat). However, the demand has declined due to the import of cheaper ”tatami” made in China. In and around Kurashiki city, ”igusa” is only cultivated in three places; Kurisaka, Kameyama, and Hayashimacho, and only accounts for an area of about 20,000 square meters.
In this situation of diminishing demand, Tadashi Kurisaka continues to cultivate ”igusa”. He produces “Okayama Sango”, a kind of ”igusa” which suits the climate and natural features of Okayama, with minimal pesticides and organic fertilizers.

Suited for Japanese Climate

”Igusa” has a sponge core called “toshin”. When the humidity is high, moisture is stored in the ”toshin”, and is emitted when the room is dry.
”Igusa” products also have a property of high heat retention, therefore it is warm in winter and cool in summer. They are perfect for the Japanese climate with its steaming hot summer and the dry, bone-chilling winter.
It is also said that the aroma of ”igusa” products have the same effect as forest therapy to relax the body.

Adapting to changing lifestyles

There is a ”kogei” of Kurashiki called “hanagoza” or “flower mat”, which is ”igusa” dyed in various colors woven by a hand loom. They are also known as “igusa rugs”. The ”igusa rug” woven with delicate patterns not only fits in well with a Japanese style room, but is also suitable for western style decor. ”Tatami” may be disappearing from Japanese homes, but incorporating ”igusa rugs” in the modern lifestyle may be a good idea.
Every Tuesday and Friday, a demonstration of “hanagoza” weaving by hand is held at “Hayashimacho Hanagoza Teori Denshokan” (Hanagoza Hand Weaving Tradition Museum in Hayashimacho). It is a great opportunity to see 100 to 150 year old hand looms at work.