It used to be said that houses in Japan are made of woods and paper.
Now, the half of them are made of concrete, while my house consists mainly of woods, ceramics (for roof), mortar, and some paper.
Because Japan is a mountainous country, woods have been abundant.
Woods are said to be breathing after used as a material, meaning they absorb moisture when it is humid and release it when it is dry. That is why they are suitable for Japanese buildings.
Further, the houses made of woods are cool in summer and warm in winter. I seldom use air-conditioner even in the summer (in case of rooms on the ground floor).
In addition, Japan have suffered from repeated massive earthquakes. Wooden houses are light and easy to construct. A house made of stone or brick is dangerous when it collapses.
Current houses are not only earthquake-resistant but easy to maintain.
Tatami mats and paper screens are rarely used.
Still, my father sticked to Japanese style room and made his room with tatami mat and paper screen.
This room is cool and quiet throughout the year, therefore appropriate for on-line yoga lesson.
