How to spend the cold season in Japan

January and February are the coldest months of the year in Japan.
Some areas get a lot of snow, while others get less snow but have a cold wind. Many people may feel that winter in Japan is cold not just because of the temperature, but also because of the way it feels.
Today, I'd like to introduce you to how people in Japan spend the cold season.

[Is it surprisingly cold inside Japanese houses?]
Japanese homes tend to have weaker insulation than homes overseas.
・It's cold outside
It's cold inside the house too
Many foreigners feel this way, so in Japan, they come up with ways to heat parts of the room.

[The culture of kotatsu]
When you think of winter in Japan, the first thing that comes to mind is the kotatsu.
There is a heater under the desk, and I put my feet in it and cover myself with a blanket.
・Warm feet
・Your body will feel warm too
Some people even fall asleep while sitting under the kotatsu. Kotatsu is also a place where family and friends naturally gather.

[Winter clothing ideas]
In Japan, we wear layers of clothing in winter.
・Innerwear such as Heattech
·sweater
Coat
・Scarf and gloves
The key is to layer several thin layers of clothing rather than "wearing too many clothes."

[Hot drinks and food]
In cold weather, I like to drink warm things.
·tea
·coffee
·soup
In terms of food,
・Hot pot dishes
・Oden
·ramen
The following are popular. When your body warms up, your mind will also feel relaxed.

[Let's learn Japanese phrases!]
◎ It's cold.
◎ It's cold today.
◎ Be careful not to catch a cold.
◎ Please keep warm.

The cold season in Japan can be a little difficult, but there are many uniquely Japanese ways to cope. Learning how to get through the winter will also help you understand life in Japan and the Japanese language.
The cold days continue, but please take care of your health and enjoy winter in Japan!