The history of tatami dates back to the Nara period, but Kyo tatami – in other words, tatami produced in Kyoto Prefecture using traditional hand-sewn techniques – is said to have been established after the spread of the tea ceremony. Tatami are highly valued not only for their soundproofing, elasticity, and aesthetics, but also for their ability to regulate humidity and temperature. There are two main types of tatami: the ordinary tatami used in ordinary households, and yusoku tatami used in shrines and temples. The majority of yusoku tatami produced domestically are made in Kyoto Prefecture.