In Tokyo, temperatures are rising rapidly and plant growth is gaining momentum. This is Kimura, who lives in the northern part of Tokyo.

It is time to put away the kotatsu, a Japanese heating appliance that was very active during the fall and winter seasons.It will be taken care of again in the next season. By the way, is the kotatsu a heater for Japanese only? Are there kotatsu in other countries as well? Today, I would like to introduce the kotatsu, a popular heating appliance in Japan!

A table like the one in the image is called a kotatsu. (Image is for reference only)
A kotatsu is a piece of furniture that combines an electric heater and a table. It is a heating appliance that has been used in Japan for a long time. The structure is very simple, with an electric heater that gets warm under the table, The table has an electric heater that warms the table underneath, and a futon can be draped over the heater. The futon can be placed under the table to warm the feet.

This is a picture of the underside of the table. A cover is provided so that your feet do not directly touch the heater. Can you see the heater inside is a little red?

It might be easier to tell without the flash. This heater warms up at just the right temperature.

Japanese people eat, watch TV, talk, and relax in kotatsu. It is a natural family gathering place. It is a place where both body and soul are warmed. For this reason, kotatsu are often seen in Japanese anime and movie scenes that depict family reunions. I am not familiar with anime, but you often see kotatsu in Chibimaruko-chan and Sazae-san.

Also, when you are alone in a kotatsu, it is great to take a nap in a kotatsu. Personally, kotatsu + pillow is the best comfort.

I blogged a lot on the kotatsu this winter as well. I will blog again when I get the kotatsu out next winter.

Kimura