How to Handle Cold Indoor Temperatures in Winter

Many Japanese apartments are less insulated than newcomers expect. Learn practical ways to stay warm indoors.

In many parts of Japan, winter is not only about outdoor cold. The bigger surprise for many newcomers is how cold apartments can feel indoors.

Why it happens

Many older apartments have weak insulation in walls, floors, and windows. Hallways, bathrooms, and dressing areas are often unheated.

Common heating options

• Air conditioner in heating mode
• Space heater
• Kotatsu
• Kerosene heater in some homes

Useful items

• Warm innerwear
• Room slippers
• Thermal curtains
• Window insulation sheets
• Humidifier

Heat shock risk

Sudden temperature changes between a warm room and a cold bathroom or dressing room can be dangerous, especially when bathing. Warming the changing area first is a good safety step.