Japanese Kotatsu: The Magic of Warmth in Winter

Do you know what a kotatsu is?
A kotatsu is a warm table that is essential in the Japanese winter. Many Japanese households bring out their kotatsu when the cold season arrives. It's like having a little sun in your home, and it warms your heart as well.

What is a Kotatsu?
A kotatsu is a table with a heater underneath, and a futon placed over it to keep the heat in.
You can eat, drink tea, or read a book on the table.
When you put your feet inside the kotatsu, it warms up nicely and you can't help but relax, sighing "wow."

[Tangerines on the kotatsu]
In Japan, there is even a phrase, "Kotatsu de mikan," which evokes winter. A kotatsu is topped with many orange mandarins, and the whole family eats them while watching TV -- times like these are a happy part of winter in Japan.

[The history of the kotatsu]
The origins of the kotatsu date back to the Muromachi period, about 600 years ago.
At that time, people dug a hole in the floor, lit a charcoal fire underneath, and placed a wooden stand on top, which was the prototype of today's electric kotatsu.
For many years, Japanese people have treasured kotatsu as a place to warm the family.

【Why is it so popular?】
Kotatsu uses less electricity than a heater that warms the entire room.
This makes it an eco-friendly heater that is kind to both the environment and your wallet. What's more, it naturally brings family and friends together around the kotatsu, sparking conversation and laughter.
A kotatsu is not just a piece of furniture, but also a place that connects people.

[Let's learn Japanese phrases!]
Please turn on the kotatsu.
Can I sit in the kotatsu?
It's warm!
I don't want to get out of the kotatsu anymore.

If you have the opportunity to visit Japan in the winter, be sure to try out a kotatsu.
The warmth of the futon, the laughter of family, the sweet smell of mandarin oranges...
You too will surely be enchanted by the kotatsu's "magic that will make you unable to get out"!!