How the Japanese keep warm in winter without central heating

Not everyone knows about this, but there is no central heating in Japan. An exception (and even then, not entirely) is the island of Hokkaido, located in the northernmost part of the country. Of course, winter in Japan is not as harsh as in countries with cold climates, but it is wet, unpleasant, and people are freezing anyway.

The lack of central heating is dictated by various reasons, but the main one is expensive, and the resources of this country are limited. In addition, Japan is a seismically active zone, which imposes a number of restrictions on construction and communications. So how, then, do the Japanese escape the cold?

The most common method, which is also part of the culture of this country, is kotatsu. Kotatsu is a kind of heating table, consisting of a wooden panel, a frame, a heating element attached to it and a blanket. Gathering at such a table, the Japanese not only warm themselves, but also spend time together. In Russia, this would not hurt us either, would it?

It is not uncommon for families with young children to purchase a heated carpet so that the baby can crawl and play without the risk of getting sick. They come in a variety of sizes, both large and small for pets.

Still inventive Japanese have come up with a kind of "heating pads" for the body - kairo. They come in different sizes and shapes: for the abdomen, shoulders, lower back, arms, legs, eyes. Some have a sticky surface so they can be more securely attached to the skin. Cairo is used not only to keep warm but also to heal. Looks like a good alternative to massage and warming ointments.

If the budget allows, the Japanese are kept warm by air conditioning. This method greatly increases the electricity bill, so the inhabitants of the land of the rising sun do not resort to it often. Much more often they just dress warmer - a large assortment of warm clothes for home is presented in stores in Japan.

In Russia, we are used to the fact that, having crossed the threshold of the house, we can safely undress and not think about how cold it is outside. We pay considerable sums for this luxury during the heating season. And how do you like this alternative?

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