A futon (布団?) is a Japanese traditional bedding comprising a quilted mattress that is usually laid on the floor. A bedding set consists of both a mattress (敷き布団? shikibuton, lit. "spreading futon") and a duvet (掛け布団? kakebuton, lit. "covering futon"). Both elements of a futon bedding set are pliable enough to be folded and stored away during the day, allowing the room to serve for purposes other than as a bedroom.
Western-style futons, which typically resemble low, wooden sofa beds, differ substantially from their Japanese counterparts.