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Reference.org
Kotatsu
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<p>A <i>kotatsu</i> is a low, wooden table frame covered by a <i><a href="/facts/Futon/pV8oTYQ0">futon</a></i>, or heavy <a href="/facts/Blanket/ykhrQ7Ng">blanket</a>, upon which a table top sits. Underneath is a heat source, formerly a charcoal <a href="/facts/Brazier/rpjVxovs">brazier</a> but now <a href="/facts/Electricity/hNC8D65W">electric</a>, often built into the table itself. <i>Kotatsu</i> are used almost exclusively in Japan, although similar devices for the same purpose of heating are used elsewhere, e.g. the Spanish <a href="/facts/Brasero_(heater)/m3fJ256t"><i>brasero</i></a> or Iranian <i><a href="/facts/Korsi/6LPYJ3Av">korsi</a></i>. </p>