Japanese people are resting on futons for over a thousand years. They are small, compact and can be stored in even the smallest Japanese apartment which makes them incredible convenient for most people who are living in bigger Japanese cities where the rent is usually really high. Let’s talk about the Futon (布団). 

A futon is a thin mattress with a fabric exterior stuffed with cotton, wool, or synthetic filling. Futons are sold in Japan at specialty stores called futonya (布団屋) as well as at department stores. They are often sold in sets that include the mattress and the duvet. Other usual bedding items include a blanket (毛布), a tauroketto (タウロケット) which is a mixture between a thin blanket and a towel which is used in the hot Japanese summers. In addition there is a pillow included in most futon sets as well (枕) generally filled with beans or plastic beads.

Futons are designed to be placed on tatami flooring, and are traditionally folded away and stored in a closet during the day to allow the tatami to breathe and to allow for flexibility in the use of the room. Futons must be aired in sunlight regularly, especially if not put away during the day. 

In addition, many Japanese beat their futons regularly with a futon beater to prevent the padding from matting. A futon-beater is a special instrument, traditionally made from bamboo, which resembles a Western carpet beater. Futon are available in single, semi-double, and double sizes.
There are western style futons as well, which are usually a little thicker, often wooden framed. They are used as a cheap alternative for a bed. 
If you stay in Japan, either in a traditional hotel, share house or apartment, you will definitely encounter sleeping on a futon. It’s hard to sleep on at first but you’ll get used to it pretty quick.