living in volcan crater in Aogashima

Keep Warm and Learn Kanji

For those coming from cold countries, the lack of a central heating system in Japan might be surprising, but there is no need to worry as there are many Japanese tricks for keeping warm.

If this is your first winter in Japan, you would have no doubt realized that it can get as cold inside as it is outside.

For those coming from cold countries, the lack of a central heating system in Japan might be surprising, but there is no need to worry as there are many Japanese tricks for keeping warm.

So, whether you are chilled to the bone in snowy Hokkaido or simply shuddering from icy winds in Kanto, here are the top 5 ways to find some of that elusive heat.

HEATER

Most built in air conditioner units in Japan include a heater (暖房だんぼう) mode that blows hot air at the temperature you set.

Many also include a timer function which is great for warming up the room for when you wake up in the morning.

When using the 暖房, it is crucial for you to familiarize yourself with the Kanji on the remote-controller.

Here are some of the more common Kanji that you will find on a remote controller:

入いり　ー　On
切きり　ー　Off
自動じどう　ー　Automatic Mode
暖房だんぼう　ー　Heat Mode
温度おんど　ー　Temperature
風向かざむき　ー　Wind Direction
風量ふうりょう　ー　Fan Speed
強きょう　ー　Strong
弱じゃく　ー　Weak
取り消しとりけし　ー　Cancel
タイマー　ー　Timer

KOTATSU

Besides electronics and sushi, the Kotatsu (炬燵こたつ) ranks as one of Japan’s greatest winter inventions.

It consists of a low table with a built-in electronic heater underneath. The top of the kotatsu consists of two tables with a futon (布団ふとん) sandwiched between the two.

Traditionally, the family (家族かぞく) would sit around the Kotatsu and enjoy family time (一家団欒いっかだんらん) by drinking tea (お茶おちゃ) or watching TV.

Once ensconced into the depths of a 炬燵 you will find yourself 温まる to the point where it will be hard to ever leave the kotatsu again!

HOT MAT

ホットマット are a type of heated electronic carpet. They don’t get especially hot but rather provide a nice warm barrier between your feet and the cold floor.

These mats come in handy as it is common in Japan to sit on the floor. And since the mats do not become very hot at night you can put your futon on top without worrying about it burning your futon.

HEAT PACK

カイロ are the perfect size to take with you outside during the cold 冬 months. They consist of a small bag that you simply shake and the chemical powder inside will emit a steady, constant heat that is good for a few hours.

カイロ can be purchased at most convenience stores and are usually priced at under ¥100. If you spent a lot time outside stuff a couple カイロ in your pockets to keep nice and toasty.

HOT WATER BOTTLE

Certainly not unique to Japan, unless you count the countless kawaii covers that many households use to decorate their 湯たんぽ, the hot water bottle is perfect for sharing your futon with on a cold winters night.

As expected, its basic form is pretty much exactly the same as in your own country, but Japanese people excel in decoration and this humble heater is no exception. Buy it, but then go and shop for one of the many cute, stylish covers to make it complete.