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All hail the kotatsu the table heater. We are not worthy.

In Japan there is no central heating or fires in houses. This is where the kotatsu or table heater is king. A few days ago the temperature plummeted down to depths where 30 degree temperatures and shorts and sandal wearing times seemed to be distant memories and so the kotatsu was brought out of hibernation. Today a typhoon is coming again and the early warning signs of heavy rains and strong winds were in evidence as I accompanied Reiko to the station and returned drenched.

I have been informed that in winter, it can be cold enough to see your own breath mist up in the air inside a house. The kotatsu is a small table which is about a foot tall. and in two parts. The legs and framework make up the first part and the top table is separate and second. In the framework, there is an heater attached to the electricity cable. Then a heavy quilt is laid over the framework and the tabletop put on the top. You sit on the floor and put your lower body underneath for warmth. They are incredible.

As the room can be so cold, the whole family crowds around it for eating, watching the television and conversing. In fact it`s the only place in the whole house save for the futons which is remotely habitable in cold times.