January 22, 2025

Warm Traditions: The Enduring Charm of the Japanese Kotatsu

Warm Traditions: The Enduring Charm of the Japanese Kotatsu

One of the most iconic pieces of furniture in the Japanese home is the kotatsu. Seen throughout pop culture and in movies, anime, and manga, this useful and convenient piece of furniture has a surprisingly long history in Japan and still holds an important (and cozy) spot in most Japanese homes.

The word ‘kotatsu’ can be broken up into the words ‘ko’ meaning fire, and ‘tatsu’ meaning foot warmer. This ingenious invention has its origins in the 14th century when people began digging out extra space around their irori, a sunken pit dug into the ground that housed a fire. People enjoyed being social and gathering around the fire, over which they would hang a kettle from the ceiling to boil water for tea. It was only natural that eventually, they would make extra space around it so that they could cover the warm pit with a wooden plinth, over which they would drape a blanket to hold in all that warmth. The wonderful warmth of the hearth would allow those surrounding it to keep their legs and feet warm.

Dog Under a Kotatsu

This tradition continued from the 14th century well into the 20th century, at which point the heat source shifted from coal fires to electricity. The humble kotatsu has allowed Japanese people to thrive – not just survive – in the sharp autumn and sometimes frigid winter months. It’s not uncommon to see them roll out starting in October and hold their warm spot in the home all the way through March.

Another reason for the popularity of the kotatsu is the fact that Japanese homes don’t generally have central heating, making the interior of homes rather cold. While space heaters and AC units may help, there’s nothing quite like curling up under a cozy kotatsu.

Working From Home With Kotatsu

Now, with the rise of work-from-home culture, the market for kotatsu is on the rise. Squat floor seating, which is the traditional type of table you’ll find outfitted with a kotatsu, is no longer the only option. Regular desks, and even changing tables, are now being outfitted with heating units and velvety blankets.

The love for kotatsu even extends outside of the home, with some trains, hotels, cafes, shopping arcades, and restaurants using kotatsu to draw in more customers. With the spread of Japanese culture throughout the world, those of us living in colder climates can only hope the next cultural export to spread across the world will be the nice, cozy kotatsu.

 

 

About the author: 

Kevin Kilcyone

Kevin Kilcoyne

The spark that lit Kevin Kilcoyne’s interest in Japanese culture began in elementary school through a friendship with his then classmate Keisuke. Since then, that passion has evolved and bloomed to encompass more than just video games and manga, leading Kevin to live in Japan as a participant of the JET program. During his time in Japan, Kevin sought out as many foods as he could, the experiences and taste memories lingering long after they had gone. Now he is forging a path to link his passions for Japanese food, history, and visual culture and is planning for his return to live in Japan once again. For now, you can find Kevin on Instagram (@waruishouten) where he posts his photography and illustration work. Keep an eye out for more posts and updates as Kevin delves more deeply into his passions for writing and food.

 

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