“Why My Kotatsu Is My Favorite Winter Spot in Japan” By Jesse – Jabble Chiba 英会話スクール

When I first came to Japan, I was fascinated by many things—beautiful shrines, amazing food, convenient trains, and, of course, the warm hospitality of the people.
But there was one Japanese invention that completely changed my winters and quickly became one of my favorite things in this country: the kotatsu.

Last weekend, as the temperatures finally dropped, I officially set up my kotatsu for the season.
For me, this moment marks the true beginning of winter in Japan.
Some people get excited about Christmas lights or winter foods, but for me,
nothing says “winter is here” quite like switching on that small heater and tucking my legs under the blanket.

What I love most is that the kotatsu isn’t just a piece of furniture—it’s a place where our whole family naturally gathers.
My kids love it just as much as I do. In fact, if you walk into my living room on a weekday afternoon, you’ll often find them sitting at the kotatsu doing their homework.
Sometimes they’re studying English, which makes me especially happy as a teacher.
I like to think the warm and comfortable atmosphere helps them stay focused and motivated, even after a long day at school.

On weekend nights, the kotatsu becomes my personal relaxation zone.
After working at Jabble Chiba and helping students with their English goals, I love coming home, grabbing a cold beer, and sitting under the kotatsu.
There’s something incredibly calming about it—the warmth, the soft light, the cozy blanket.
It’s the perfect place to unwind, think about my week, and sometimes even plan future lessons or ideas for students.
It’s amazing how a simple piece of furniture can create such a peaceful space.

Over the years, I’ve realized that the kotatsu also represents something important about learning—comfort matters.
When we feel relaxed and safe, our minds open up, and learning becomes much easier and more enjoyable.
Many of my students at Jabble tell me they study English at home while sitting under their own kotatsu, and honestly, I think that’s a great idea.
If the environment helps you feel calm, your brain is much more likely to remember new vocabulary and understand new grammar.

So if you’re looking for a winter study tip, here’s my recommendation:
Make your study space warm, relaxing, and enjoyable.
It doesn’t have to be a kotatsu—though if you have one, lucky you! Even a warm drink, a cozy blanket, or your favorite chair can make a big difference.
When studying becomes something you look forward to instead of something you “must do,” your progress improves dramatically.

The kotatsu has really become a symbol of my life in Japan—a mix of family, comfort, and small everyday joys.
And it’s also a reminder that even simple routines can support bigger goals, like learning a new language.
My family gathers there, my kids study there, and I recharge there. It’s warm, it’s peaceful, and it’s become the heart of our home during the cold months.

As winter continues, you’ll probably find me sitting at my kotatsu on most evenings, enjoying a beer, chatting with my family, and appreciating this uniquely Japanese tradition.
If you have a kotatsu, I hope you enjoy yours just as much. And if you don’t—maybe this winter is the perfect time to try studying English somewhere warm and comfortable.
You might be surprised by how much good it does for both your mood and your motivation.

Stay warm this season, and see you soon at Jabble Chiba!

千葉校
Jesse

【日本人スタッフによる要約】
ジェシー先生（千葉校）の今回のブログでは、「こたつ」が日本の冬に欠かせない存在であり、家族が自然に集まる温かい場所であることを紹介しています。
子どもたちはこたつで宿題をすることも多く、英語学習にも良い影響があることを軽くアピールしています。
また、自分自身も週末の夜にビールを飲みながらリラックスできる大切な場所として描かれています。
ブログの後半では、「快適でリラックスできる環境は、英語学習の集中力とモチベーションを高める」 というメッセージを伝え、
こたつや暖かい空間を活用した冬の学習方法を提案しています。
季節感のある内容とジェシー先生の個人的なストーリーを通して、読者に親しみを感じてもらいながら、英語学習への意欲を高める構成になっています。