tokonoma

alcove in a Japanese room

"In the guest room there is at one side a more or less deep recess divided into two bays by a slight partition; the one nearest the veranda is called the tokonoma. In this place hang one or more pictures (kakejiku), and upon its floor, which is slightly raised above the mats, rests a flower vase, incense burner, or some other object. The companion bay has shelves and a low closet."

Japanese Homes and Their Surroundings
Edward S. Morse