{"id":205777,"date":"2025-12-24T20:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-12-24T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/?p=205777"},"modified":"2025-12-24T16:27:30","modified_gmt":"2025-12-24T07:27:30","slug":"how-to-stay-warm-in-japan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/blog\/how-to-stay-warm-in-japan\/","title":{"rendered":"How to stay warm in Japan: practical tips for a cozy winter"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Winter in Japan is beautiful \u2014 crisp air, blue skies, and snowy landscapes in the north. But let\u2019s be honest: it can also be <strong>freezing<\/strong> and <strong>dry<\/strong>, no matter where you live. And if you\u2019re new to Japan, you might be surprised to discover that the chill doesn\u2019t stay outside. In fact, many people find that Japanese homes feel colder indoors than out \u2014 and that is because they usually are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The combination of traditional building styles, lack of insulation, single-paned windows, and high utility costs means that staying warm in Japan takes a lot of strategy. The good news? Staying warm is absolutely possible, but only with the right tools and habits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Japanese homes can feel extra cold<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve ever wondered why your apartment seems to trap cold air instead of heat, here\u2019s the quick breakdown:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Single-pane windows<\/strong> are still common, especially in older buildings, and they lose heat quickly.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Poor insulation<\/strong> means walls don\u2019t retain warmth very well.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Electricity and utility costs<\/strong> can add up, so heating the entire home isn\u2019t always practical.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For students and newcomers, this creates a unique winter challenge. Staying warm in Japan isn\u2019t just about the temperature \u2014 <strong>it\u2019s about heating smart<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Essential heating appliances (safe options only)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are the heating options you\u2019ll see most often, and how to use them effectively and safely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Air conditioner (\u30a8\u30a2\u30b3\u30f3 \/ AC)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most Japanese AC units function as both coolers and heaters. They warm a room by circulating heated air, and when used correctly, they\u2019re efficient and reliable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tips for efficient heating:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Set your AC to <strong>20\u201322\u00b0C<\/strong> for comfort without overspending.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use the timer function so it turns off once you\u2019re asleep or out of the house.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Close doors<\/strong> to keep heat concentrated in the room you\u2019re using.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"898\" height=\"491\" src=\"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-15.png\" alt=\"brown kotatsu in a sharehouse\" class=\"wp-image-205787\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-15.png 898w, https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-15-300x164.png 300w, https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-15-768x420.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 898px) 100vw, 898px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kotatsu<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/blog\/keeping-cosy-in-japan-why-we-all-need-the-kotatsu-table\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>kotatsu<\/strong><\/a> is a low table with an electric heater attached underneath and a thick blanket to trap warmth. It\u2019s a winter staple across Japan and a fan favorite of many people who have survived past winters here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why it\u2019s great:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Extremely energy-efficient.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Perfect for studying, relaxing, or watching TV.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Safety tip:<\/strong> Don\u2019t fall asleep under it for long periods, and keep the area tidy to avoid overheating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Electric carpets &amp; heated blankets<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>These gentle heating options warm surfaces rather than the air around you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Electric carpets heat the floor under your feet.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Heated blankets warm your body directly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Both are excellent for cutting down heating costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Use them safely by:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Following manufacturer instructions.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoiding folding when in use.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Turning them off before sleeping.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Portable electric heaters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you live in a small space or want extra warmth in a specific corner, these are useful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Common types:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ceramic heaters<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fan heaters<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil-filled radiators<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tips for safe use:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Keep heaters away from curtains, bedding, or clothing.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Choose models with <strong>auto-off<\/strong> and tip-over protection.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Never leave them running unattended.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Important note: Avoid kerosene heaters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Kerosene heaters (\u77f3\u6cb9\u30b9\u30c8\u30fc\u30d6) are still popular in many Japanese households, but <strong>we do not recommend them<\/strong>. They require proper ventilation, can create fire hazards, and carry a risk of carbon monoxide buildup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Stick to electric heating options instead.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tips to make your home warmer (even without insulation)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if your apartment isn\u2019t built for winter, you can make big improvements with small, inexpensive items:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Weather stripping for doors and windows to reduce drafts.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Thermal curtains to keep warm air inside.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Window film to add an extra layer of insulation.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Draft stoppers for doors.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rugs or carpets to reduce heat loss through cold floors.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Close unused rooms to concentrate warmth where you need it.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Humidifiers \u2014 humid air feels warmer and helps prevent dry skin, sore throats, and static.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to buy affordably:<\/strong><br>Try Daiso, Don Quijote, Nitori, or Amazon Japan. Second-hand stores like Hard Off and recycle shops can also be great for appliances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"898\" height=\"491\" src=\"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-16.png\" alt=\"snow monkeys at an outdoor onsen\" class=\"wp-image-205795\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-16.png 898w, https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-16-300x164.png 300w, https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/image-16-768x420.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 898px) 100vw, 898px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Stay warm the Japanese way<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Japan has plenty of <a href=\"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/blog\/things-to-do-in-japan-in-winter-magical-place\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cultural winter comforts<\/a> \u2014 enjoy them!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hot baths before bed: Warm your body deeply so you fall asleep comfortably.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><em>Onsen<\/em> or <em>sent\u014d<\/em> visits: Relax, stay warm, and enjoy a uniquely Japanese experience.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><em>Nabe<\/em>, <em>oden<\/em>, <em>ramen<\/em>: Hot, hearty meals that warm you from the inside.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><em>Kairo<\/em> warmers: Both stick-on (\u8cbc\u308b) and non-sticky types are available.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hot drinks from vending machines: You\u2019ll find warm tea, coffee, and even corn soup everywhere.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Outdoor tips for staying warm<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Japan\u2019s winters can be very dry and windy, especially in Kanto, while other areas are more snowy and wet. Wherever you are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use <strong>layering<\/strong>: heat-tech base layers \u2192 sweaters \u2192 coats.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wear warm accessories like scarves, gloves, and ear warmers.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For snowy regions, choose waterproof shoes or boots to keep your feet warm and dry.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Winter safety tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A warm home is great \u2014 a safe home is essential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Don\u2019t block vents or airflows for heaters or AC units.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid overloading extension cords.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Turn off heating devices before leaving the house.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Manage condensation and mold by ventilating occasionally, even in winter.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stay hydrated \u2014 heating dries the air, and you still need water even when it\u2019s cold.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ready to stay warm in Japan?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Japanese homes may not be the warmest in winter, but with the right combination of heating tools, simple home improvements, and cozy habits, you can stay comfortable all season long. If you\u2019re here long-term, consider investing in a few reliable items \u2014 your future winter self will thank you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To learn more about living in Japan, make sure to check out <a href=\"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/blog\/\">our blog<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Winter in Japan is beautiful \u2014 crisp air, blue skies, and snowy landscapes in the north. But let\u2019s be honest: it can also be freezing and dry, no matter where you live. And if you\u2019re new to Japan, you might be surprised to discover that the chill doesn\u2019t stay outside. In fact, many people find [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":174,"featured_media":205778,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[401],"tags":[690,2467],"class_list":["post-205777","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-life-in-japan","tag-living-abroad","tag-winter-in-japan"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/205777","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/174"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=205777"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/205777\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":207480,"href":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/205777\/revisions\/207480"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/205778"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=205777"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=205777"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=205777"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}