Essential Cold Protection Items for Winter in Japan
Winter in Japan is characterized by its cold weather, especially in regions that experience snowfall. The chilly temperatures often encourage people to spend more time indoors. Consequently, households stock up on various cold protection items to combat the cold and enhance comfort. Below, we will explore some essential items for staying warm during the Japanese winter, as shared in a recent video.
The KATU: A Winter Favorite
One of the most iconic cold protection items in Japanese homes is the KATU, a heated low table. Many people are likely familiar with it, as it embodies the essence of warmth and comfort during the chilly months. In the featured home, three variations of KATU are used in different ways.
The basic use of a KATU involves an electric heater attached beneath the table, covered with a warm blanket. This simple setup provides a cozy space for family members to gather. Enjoying seasonal treats like oranges and hot Japanese tea while watching TV is a cherished winter pastime. Oranges, being famous for their presence in winter, are easy to eat, long-lasting, and packed with vitamins—making them an ideal companion to the warmth of the KATU.
Two alternative configurations of the KATU cater to the needs of older adults, often facing knee problems. The first variation features longer legs, allowing it to be used alongside chairs or sofas, making it more accessible for those with mobility issues. The second type, called hotu, functions similarly but is designed for lying down, perfect for comfortable afternoon naps.
Aside from the KATU, a variety of heaters help to keep spaces warm. In Tokyo, air conditioners are common, providing adequate warmth in mildly cold areas. However, homes in colder regions may require more powerful heating solutions, such as kerosene stoves. These stoves effectively warm larger rooms and can also be used for boiling water, adding moisture to dry winter air—something commonly depicted in traditional Japanese films.
The kerosene heater discussed comes with a convenient press-button ignition, although maintaining the kerosene tank can be a hassle. For greater convenience, gas heaters are available, eliminating the need for tank refills. Furthermore, a small electric heater in the bathroom ensures comfort during showers, which is particularly crucial in winter when risks of temperature shock increase, especially for elderly individuals.
Practicing Traditional Warmth: The Ioli
Though not commonly used anymore, the traditional ioli heater was once a vital source of warmth and cooking for families, serving as a social gathering point. Nowadays, newer heating methods have largely replaced it in Japanese households.
In regions that receive snow, households may benefit from water pipes embedded in roads to facilitate snow melting. In urban areas, such as Tokyo, where snowfall is less frequent, these mechanisms still serve a useful purpose during winter.
Bathing and Relaxation
After spending time outside, taking a bath becomes an essential ritual. Japanese bathrooms often include heaters to ensure safety amid temperature fluctuations. Adding bath bombs enhances the warmth and comfort of the bath, contributing to relaxation and better sleep.
Lastly, the introduction of uto, or hot water bottles, is worth mentioning. By pouring boiled water inside, these bottles provide warmth, especially when placed in beds in advance of sleep. Though alternatives like electric warmers exist, many individuals still prefer the simplicity of a hot water bottle for pre-bedtime coziness.
The items highlighted represent just a fraction of the cold protection methods employed in Japanese homes during winter. From KATU to various heating solutions, these products pave the way for comfort despite the cold. As winter draws close, incorporating these essential items can greatly enhance the warmth and enjoyment of the season. Watching the video review and sharing thoughts on cold protection items could inspire others to embrace these cozy winter traditions.
Part 1/8:
Essential Cold Protection Items for Winter in Japan
Winter in Japan is characterized by its cold weather, especially in regions that experience snowfall. The chilly temperatures often encourage people to spend more time indoors. Consequently, households stock up on various cold protection items to combat the cold and enhance comfort. Below, we will explore some essential items for staying warm during the Japanese winter, as shared in a recent video.
The KATU: A Winter Favorite
One of the most iconic cold protection items in Japanese homes is the KATU, a heated low table. Many people are likely familiar with it, as it embodies the essence of warmth and comfort during the chilly months. In the featured home, three variations of KATU are used in different ways.
Part 2/8:
Traditional Use of KATU
The basic use of a KATU involves an electric heater attached beneath the table, covered with a warm blanket. This simple setup provides a cozy space for family members to gather. Enjoying seasonal treats like oranges and hot Japanese tea while watching TV is a cherished winter pastime. Oranges, being famous for their presence in winter, are easy to eat, long-lasting, and packed with vitamins—making them an ideal companion to the warmth of the KATU.
Alternative Uses for KATU
Part 3/8:
Two alternative configurations of the KATU cater to the needs of older adults, often facing knee problems. The first variation features longer legs, allowing it to be used alongside chairs or sofas, making it more accessible for those with mobility issues. The second type, called hotu, functions similarly but is designed for lying down, perfect for comfortable afternoon naps.
Heating Options for Winter
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Aside from the KATU, a variety of heaters help to keep spaces warm. In Tokyo, air conditioners are common, providing adequate warmth in mildly cold areas. However, homes in colder regions may require more powerful heating solutions, such as kerosene stoves. These stoves effectively warm larger rooms and can also be used for boiling water, adding moisture to dry winter air—something commonly depicted in traditional Japanese films.
Types of Heaters
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The kerosene heater discussed comes with a convenient press-button ignition, although maintaining the kerosene tank can be a hassle. For greater convenience, gas heaters are available, eliminating the need for tank refills. Furthermore, a small electric heater in the bathroom ensures comfort during showers, which is particularly crucial in winter when risks of temperature shock increase, especially for elderly individuals.
Practicing Traditional Warmth: The Ioli
Though not commonly used anymore, the traditional ioli heater was once a vital source of warmth and cooking for families, serving as a social gathering point. Nowadays, newer heating methods have largely replaced it in Japanese households.
Snow Management Solutions
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In regions that receive snow, households may benefit from water pipes embedded in roads to facilitate snow melting. In urban areas, such as Tokyo, where snowfall is less frequent, these mechanisms still serve a useful purpose during winter.
Bathing and Relaxation
After spending time outside, taking a bath becomes an essential ritual. Japanese bathrooms often include heaters to ensure safety amid temperature fluctuations. Adding bath bombs enhances the warmth and comfort of the bath, contributing to relaxation and better sleep.
Heating Pads and Hot Water Bottles
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Lastly, the introduction of uto, or hot water bottles, is worth mentioning. By pouring boiled water inside, these bottles provide warmth, especially when placed in beds in advance of sleep. Though alternatives like electric warmers exist, many individuals still prefer the simplicity of a hot water bottle for pre-bedtime coziness.
Conclusion
Part 8/8:
The items highlighted represent just a fraction of the cold protection methods employed in Japanese homes during winter. From KATU to various heating solutions, these products pave the way for comfort despite the cold. As winter draws close, incorporating these essential items can greatly enhance the warmth and enjoyment of the season. Watching the video review and sharing thoughts on cold protection items could inspire others to embrace these cozy winter traditions.