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Home life - Part II Jump to the: The bedroom In the busy urban area, Japanese rooms are notorious for their lack of space. However, this is not always the case, as there are some places that have more room than others.
Due to this lack of space, several items that would be considered commonplace in Western countries are instead of a more portable kind. The main thing is the absence of a bed. Due to the large amount of space it takes up, futons are used. These are mattresses that are placed on tatami (thick rush matting) with a quilt on top to cover the person.
Futon's vary in thickness, however, we are not here to describe the various types available. When not in use, and space is needed, they are folded away and placed out of sight, either inside a cupboard or behind a partition, just so long as those who wish to enter the room cannot see it. The other main item in a typical bedroom would be some sort of table. These are very low, enough room to place one's legs underneath it. There are three ways to sit at a table like this. Cross-legged is common amongst the male population. Kneeling is preferable to women since it is respectable, however this is only in polite company. Laying your legs flat underneath the table is also okay, although you won't remain sitting up for long since that position encourages you to lie down.
In winter, a kotatsu can be used, basically a heated table. There is a heater underneath the table in the centre to keep legs warm. When either the table or kotatsu are not being used, they can be dismantled with ease and placed to one side.
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