Japanese home

: 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 ...

: Hyōsatsu: The Japanese Nameplates That Tell Stories of Home

When you walk through a Japanese neighborhood, you may notice small nameplates mounted beside the entrance of many homes. These hyōsatsu are more than labels—they reflect identity, hospitality, and a unique way of organizing daily life in Japan. A hyōsatsu placed beside the entrance reveals the family name of the home. What Is a Hyōsatsu? A hyōsatsu is a nameplate typically displayed near the front door or gate, showing the family’s surname. In some cases, the first names of family members are included as well. For visitors, postal workers, and delivery staff, the hyōsatsu serves as a clear confirmation ...