tokonoma

床の間

A tokonoma, or simply toko, is a built-in recessed space in a Japanese style reception room, in which items for artistic appreciation are displayed. In English, a tokonoma could be called an alcove. The word 'toko' literally means "floor" or "bed"; 'ma' means "space" or "room".

The items usually displayed in a tokonoma are calligraphic or pictorial scrolls and an arrangement of flowers. The pillar on one side of the tokonoma is usually made of wood, specially prepared for the purpose.

See also