This round seat mat is made on Ishigaki Island in the Yaeyama Islands, using the leaves of shell ginger.

This page introduces two of the larger sizes found in the area—
diameters of about 50 cm (19.69″) and 60 cm (23.62″).

Shell ginger is a perennial plant belonging to the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) and the genus Alpinia.

The leaves, with their refreshing scent, are used for aromatherapy and herbal tea, and the fragrance is also known to have insect-repelling effects.

In the past, these seat mats were made from rice straw, but in Yaeyama, shell ginger has become the standard material—it has a pleasant scent, a soft texture, and can be gathered easily from the wild.

Both sizes are substantial and spacious enough for an adult to sit comfortably.
You can sit cross-legged as on a rug,or even lie down and rest your upper body on it.
Because the materials vary and several artisans are involved in weaving,
there may be slight differences in the fineness of the weave and the finishing details.
We appreciate your understanding.

These seat mats can be used throughout the year.
Even in winter, the thickness provides warmth once you sit down.
Each one is made entirely from shell ginger leaves, generously used from core to surface.

At first, I wondered how it would feel to use in winter,
but after sitting on it for a while, I could feel a gentle warmth—
I realized it is something that can truly be used all year round.

Although the leaves have been dried, the scent is not strong,
but when you gently rub the surface, you can still notice the refreshing aroma unique to shell ginger.

Please enjoy this large round seat mat made from the plants of the southern islands.

＊＊Basketry in Okinawa＊＊

Okinawa Prefecture includes a number of small islands
that were once part of the Ryukyu Kingdom, collectively known as the Ryukyu Archipelago.

The archipelago includes the Amami, Okinawa, Miyako, and Yaeyama Islands—
with only the Amami group now part of Kagoshima Prefecture.

The plants nurtured on these islands, lying between the Pacific Ocean and the East China Sea,
carry hues and qualities distinct from those of other regions of Japan.
Shaped by human hands, they have long been transformed into tools for daily life,
supporting the lives of the people.

Though each island is small in area, the tropical plants that thrive under the intense blue skies of Okinawa
grow vividly and abundantly, providing a rich source of materials for basketry and craft.

Please note:
This item ships from Japan.
As the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country.
These costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
Please check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.