If you're a fan of Japanese-inspired minimalist design and in search of a bed frame that reflects that style, then you've come to the right place. In this article, we have curated a selection of our favorite Japanese style bed frames for you to choose from. Japanese bed frames are known for their low-to-the-ground design and minimalistic aesthetic, making them perfect for anyone seeking simplicity and elegance in their bedroom. The Japanese have long been pioneers in the minimalist space and have greatly influenced interior design styles worldwide. All the bed frames featured in this article come in a variety of standard sizes, from twin to king.
What is a "Japanese" bed frame?
There are various types of Japanese bed frames available. In general, the Japanese have smaller living spaces, and their bedrooms often double as living areas during the day. If they don't sleep on the floor, their beds are usually minimalist in design or fold up for easy storage or multi-purpose use.
The different kinds of Japanese bed frames
The Japanese have inspired and invented many of the bed and furniture styles that are widely used today. Whether you need a tatami bed, a futon that doubles as a couch, or a low-sitting minimalist bed, you can thank the Japanese for their innovative and functional designs.
- Low minimalist platform bed: These beds are extremely popular in the furniture design space. The low design is modern and simple, just as the Japanese style suggests.
- Futon frame: Futons can be folded from a couch into a bed and back again. They are great for bedrooms that are also used as seating or living spaces. Futons are Japanese creations and are now popular worldwide. They are generally more comfortable than pullout couches.
- Tatami bed frame: A tatami bed frame is designed to hold tatami mats, which are traditional Japanese mats/pads used in place of a mattress. The Japanese are accustomed to sleeping on the floor, so they prefer a firmer and simpler pad to sleep on rather than a thick mattress.
12 Japanese Style Bed Frames We LOVE
1. The Bed by Floyd
What Customers love: Low sitting, minimalist modern design. Snaps together, no hardware needed.
From $795
2. Mid-Century Platform Bed by Avocado
What Customers love: Heavy-duty solid wood frame. All-natural materials. No tools required.
Starting at $1899
3. Tatami Walnut Bed by The Futon Shop
What Customers love: Classic Japanese Tatami Bed. Solid and low to the ground. Includes tatami mats.
Starting at $711
4. The Minimalist Steel Bed Frame by Keetsa
What Customers love: Minimalist design. Holds over 2000lbs. Variety of finishes available.
PRICE: From $290
5. The Malibu Platform Bed by Avocado
What Customers love: Solid wood. Low-minimalist design.
PRICE: From $999
6. The Platform Bed by Birchboards
What Customers love: A sturdy wood frame made of solid maple.
PRICE: From $450
7. 6" Suzanne Platform Bed By Zinus
What Customers love: Beautiful simple design and affordable.
8. 14" Justina Platform Bed Frame by Zinus
What Customers love: Great price for the quality.
9. Platforma 6" Low Profile Platform Bed Frame
What Customers love: Fits my California King mattress perfectly.
10. Stella Low Profile Platform Bed - InStyle Furnishings
What Customers love: Simple design with thick supportive bed slats.
11. The Bed Frame by Birch
What Customers love: Simple natural design. Easily snaps together without tools.
PRICE: From $499
12. The City Bed by Avocado
What Customers love: Classic natural wood bed frame. Affordable and easy snap-together assembly.
PRICE: From $645
Does Japan Use Bed Frames?
Some people in Japan have started to adopt some Western-style mattresses and bed frames. However, the majority still sleep on a traditional, very thin mattress placed on a Tatami mat. Tatami mats are made of compressed straw and are believed to be beneficial for the back and muscle relief. During the day, the traditional Japanese tatami mat and thin mattress are rolled up and stored away, allowing the bedroom to have multiple functions within the home.
Do The Japanese Still Sleep on the Floor?
Yes, many Japanese households still sleep on the floor on a tatami mat and a very thin mattress. This has always been a part of Japanese culture. The tatami mat, made of straw, provides a simple and firm sleeping surface that is believed to be beneficial for the body.
Can I Use a Japanese Futon on a Bed Frame?
Absolutely! A Japanese futon can be used on a low platform bed instead of a tatami mat. A low bed frame with slats will provide the necessary support for your futon mattress while keeping the bed at a low height to allow for air circulation.
What are the Benefits of Sleeping on a Japanese Bed Frame?
- Air circulation: Japanese beds are low to the ground, allowing for better air circulation during sleep. This also helps keep you cool, as cold air tends to be lower to the ground.
- Support: Traditional Japanese beds consist of a thin mattress with a tatami mat underneath. This firm sleeping surface offers excellent support for your spine and back, and the Japanese believe it provides relief for muscles as well.
- Simple & Minimalist: Japanese bed frames embrace the philosophy of "less is more." They minimize clutter and use functional and simple design principles. These bed frames take up minimal space and feature clean, simple lines that create a peaceful and serene bedroom environment.
Do Japanese Beds Need a Box Spring?
Most bed frames inspired by Japanese culture do not require a box spring. Instead, they feature built-in bed slats that provide support for your mattress or futon. This design allows for a lower sleeping surface and a more minimalist appearance.
Getting Rid of Your Old Bed Set
If you're purchasing a new bed frame, chances are you'll need to get rid of your old one. Many online companies now offer removal and recycling services for old mattresses and bed sets. At A Bedder World, we pride ourselves on our mattress and bed set removal and recycling capabilities. To book a pick-up, simply schedule online and place your items outside by 8 am. We'll take care of the rest.
In conclusion, there are numerous Japanese-style bed frames available on the market today. When choosing one, consider your budget and the desired lifespan of the bed. As with anything, the price often reflects the quality and longevity of the product. All the recommendations mentioned in this article are from companies we trust, with a long-standing reputation in the industry.