Surviving Japan’s Winter as a South African Expat
If you’re accustomed to South Africa’s mild winters, Japan’s frigid temperatures can be overwhelming. Regions like Hokkaido or Nagano experience heavy snow and sub-zero conditions, while even the relatively mild winters in Tokyo and Osaka can feel harsh due to the humidity.
Invest in Quality Winter Clothing
A Warm, Insulated Coat: Look for a coat that is both windproof and water-resistant to shield you from the elements.
Layer Up: Layering is essential. Start with thermal base layers, add sweaters, and top it off with fleece-lined pants or leggings.
Accessories Matter: A beanie, gloves, and a scarf are must-haves to protect exposed areas from freezing winds.
2. Keep Your Hands and Feet Warm
Opt for thick thermal socks and insulated, waterproof boots to keep your feet warm and dry. Avoid sneakers, as they’re not designed for icy conditions.
Use hokkairo (ホッカイロ): These disposable heat packs are lifesavers! The regular ones warm your hands when held, while the sticky type can be placed inside your clothes or shoes for extra warmth. Here’s the direct link to purchase ホッカイロ (Hokkairo) on Amazon Japan:
ホッカイロ on Amazon Japan
3. Warming Up Indoors
Japanese homes, unlike South African ones, are often poorly insulated and lack central heating. Staying warm indoors requires a few smart adjustments.
Learn to Love the Kotatsu
A kotatsu is a heated table covered with a blanket, and it’s the ultimate winter companion. Slide your legs underneath, and you’ll feel like you’re in heaven. Many families in Japan spend entire evenings gathered around the kotatsu, sharing meals, chatting, or simply relaxing.
Here’s the shortened URL for the kotatsu with heater on Amazon Japan:
Portable Heaters:
Electric or kerosene heaters can efficiently warm up your space. If you use a kerosene heater, ensure proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
Electric Blankets & Hot Water Bottles
Use electric blankets to warm your bed before sleeping.
Use wearable Blanket or "Kiru Mofu" (着る毛布): A Winter Must-Have in Japan. Here’s a link to wearable blankets on Amazon Japan:
着る毛布 (Kiru Mofu) on Amazon Japan https://www.amazon.co.jp/s?k=着る毛布&ref=nb_sb_noss
Keep a hot water bottle near your feet for extra coziness on especially cold nights.
4. Embrace Winter Comfort Food
Winter in Japan is the perfect excuse to indulge in comforting, hearty meals.
Nabe (Hot Pot): A communal dish filled with vegetables, tofu, seafood, or meat simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s affordable, nutritious, and guaranteed to warm you up.
Oden: Found at convenience stores and markets, this dish includes ingredients like boiled eggs, daikon radish, fish cakes, and tofu simmered in a light soy-based broth.
Warm Beverages: Sip on hot matcha lattes, hot lemon tea, amazake (a sweet, warm fermented rice drink), or canned coffee and tea from Japan’s famous vending machines.
5. Staying Active
It’s tempting to stay indoors, but staying active helps you stay warm and combat the winter blues.
Try Winter Sports: Japan’s ski resorts, like those in Hakuba or Niseko, are world-class. Even as a beginner, skiing or snowboarding can be an exhilarating way to embrace winter.
Explore Winter Festivals: Visit iconic events like the Sapporo Snow Festival or local illuminations to experience Japan’s magical winter culture.
Daily Walks: Bundle up in layers and take short walks during daylight hours to soak in the crisp air and the beauty of landscapes.
6. Managing Dry Skin and Hair
The cold, dry air in Japan’s winter can take a toll on your skin and hair.
Hydrate Your Space: Use a humidifier indoors to prevent dryness and maintain a comfortable living environment.
Moisturize: Switch to heavier creams for your face and body. Don’t skip lip balm—chapped lips can be painful!
Protect Your Hair: Apply deep-conditioning treatments or hair oils regularly to combat dryness and brittleness caused by cold air and indoor heating.
7. Coping with the Darkness
Winter days in Japan are noticeably short, with sunsets as early as 4:30 PM in some regions. The long nights can feel isolating, but there are ways to combat the gloom.
Maximize Daylight: Make an effort to step outside during daylight hours, even for something as simple as a coffee run. Natural sunlight can do wonders for your mood.
Light Therapy Lamps: If the lack of sunlight affects you, consider investing in a light therapy lamp to simulate natural light and boost your energy levels.
Take your vitamin D supplements.
8. Find Joy in the Season
Winter in Japan offers unique experiences you won’t want to miss.
Onsens (Hot Springs): Soaking in a hot spring, especially in outdoor baths surrounded by snow, is an unforgettable and deeply relaxing experience.
Seasonal Treats: Try limited-edition winter snacks like sweet potato-flavored KitKats or hot yuzu tea. For those who drink alcohol, warm sake is a seasonal favorite.
Winter Illuminations: Japan’s cities and parks come alive with breathtaking illumination displays that turn the winter nights into a magical wonderland.
9. Stay Connected
Winter can sometimes feel isolating, especially if you’re far from home.
Keep in touch with family and friends back in South Africa. Share your adventures and send them photos of snow—it’ll make them appreciate your courage!
Connect with local expat groups or friends in Japan to create shared memories and avoid feelings of loneliness.
Conclusion
Adapting to Japan’s winter as a South African is undoubtedly a challenge, but it’s also an opportunity to experience a season filled with beauty, warmth, and cultural richness. By dressing appropriately, warming up your living space, and embracing winter traditions, you’ll learn to love this unique time of year.
So bundle up, savor the nabe, and don’t forget to enjoy the snow. Spring will be here before you know it!