A kotatsu — the cozy Japanese heated table — is pure magic in the colder months. Soft blankets, gentle warmth, and a place to gather, rest, or nap. But can you actually get one in the U.S.? The answer is: yes, you can! It just takes a bit of searching.
Here’s a simple, no-fuss guide to where to find a kotatsu in the United States 🧺🔥
🛒 1. Online Japanese Stores That Ship to the U.S.
Several Japanese retailers sell kotatsu tables and ship internationally.
- Options:
- Japanese-style kotatsu tables (low, wooden, compact)
- Blankets (futon or kakebuton) sold separately or as a set
- Heaters are usually 110V compatible or have adapters
- Popular retailers:
- Rakuten Global Market
- Amazon Japan (with international shipping selected)
- ZenPlus
- Nihon Ichiban
🗨️ Check voltage compatibility — the U.S. uses 110V, while Japan uses 100V. Most heaters still work safely, but double-check.
🛍️ 2. Amazon (U.S.) – Easiest Option for Many
Amazon U.S. carries a small but growing number of imported kotatsu tables, often with built-in heaters or adaptable units.
🛋️ My Favorite Kotatsu Table
A traditional Japanese kotatsu table — perfect for cozy winters. Plug it in, throw on a futon, and you’ve got the ultimate warm and comfy setup for reading, snacking, or just relaxing.
View on Amazon- Look for:
- “Kotatsu table with heater”
- “Japanese heated table”
- “Kotatsu futon set”
- Things to note:
- Prices can range from $150 to $600+
- Some listings include table + futon + heater
- Shipping might take a few weeks (often from Japan)
✨ Great for first-time buyers or those wanting convenience.
🪑 3. Japanese Furniture Importers or Specialty Stores
Some U.S.-based stores focus on Asian or Japanese furniture and may offer kotatsu sets.
- Try searching:
- Local Japanese markets or cultural centers
- Furniture shops in areas with large Japanese or Asian communities (like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle)
- Online importers that focus on tatami rooms or minimalist design
🏯 Visiting in person also helps with sizing and material choices.
🔌 4. DIY Kotatsu Setup
If you’re feeling crafty, you can create your own kotatsu with a bit of creativity:
- Use a low coffee table
- Add a kotatsu-compatible heater (available on Amazon or Japanese shops)
- Drape a thick blanket over it, then place a tabletop (like a tray or wood board) above
🧶 Not traditional — but cozy all the same.
⚡️ 5. Voltage & Safety Tips
- Japanese kotatsu heaters run on 100V
- The U.S. uses 110–120V, which often works — but it’s safest to:
- Use a step-down voltage converter
- Or look for models designed for U.S. voltage
🧯 Always check wattage and grounding to avoid overheating.
🌿 Final Thought
You can find a kotatsu in the U.S. — whether through specialty importers, online shops, or a cozy DIY. It might take a bit more effort than grabbing a blanket, but once you’re tucked under that warm table, book in hand and tea nearby, it’ll all feel worth it.
Because kotatsu isn’t just furniture — it’s a whole way of slowing down.
