Kotatsu heated table (Advanced)

Kotatsu, those cozy tables with a heater underneath and a thick quilt on top, are a quintessential way to stay warm and relaxed at home during the Japanese winter. However, there's a catch – these tables are usually designed for traditional interiors.

The typical kotatsu is a low, square table where you sit on the floor, akin to the style in classical Japanese houses. You slide your feet under, but the setup is a bit cramped, allowing only one person on each side. This clashes with the layout of modern living rooms, even in Japan, where sofas are standard, and families gather to watch TV or movies together.

The good news is there's a solution gaining popularity, as highlighted by Home Coordy, part of Japan’s Aeon Retail group. They've created special kotatsu designed to be used with sofas, making them a hit this autumn as people prepare for the colder months. These adaptable kotatsu come with various leg lengths, allowing attachment to different sofa heights. The rectangular shape provides ample space for two or three people to sit side by side. More advanced models include power and USB outlets, letting you charge your devices without leaving the warmth.

Prices differ by size, and examples are available through Aeon’s Top Valu online store. Aeon reports a significant surge in sales for sofa-use kotatsu, especially among those in their 20s and 30s.

On another note, if you're interested in enjoying kotatsu beyond your home, Osaka has a unique way to offer that experience.