daily life in Japan

: Kotatsu: Japan’s Coziest Winter Tradition

In Japanese winter, few things feel more comforting than sliding your legs beneath a warm blanket and settling into a kotatsu. Soft light, gentle heat, and a shared table — the kotatsu is not only a heater, but a space that brings people together. What Is a Kotatsu? A kotatsu is a low table with a built-in heating unit. A thick blanket (called a futon) is placed between the table frame and the tabletop, trapping heat underneath. You slip your legs inside, and warmth wraps around you instantly. Unlike central heating, the kotatsu warms your body rather than the ...

: Koromogae: The Japanese Tradition of Changing Clothes with the Seasons

Japan experiences four beautiful yet distinct seasons, and with each one comes a shift not only in temperature but also in lifestyle. One of the most symbolic customs of this adaptation is Koromogae (衣替え) — the traditional practice of changing wardrobes to match the season. More than just cleaning out your closet, it reflects Japan’s deep respect for nature’s rhythm and social harmony. 🌸 What Is Koromogae? Koromogae literally means “changing clothes.” It’s a long-standing Japanese custom where people put away clothes from the previous season and bring out those for the upcoming one. Historically, even schools, offices, and ...