The Japanese Art of Warmth: Discovering Nukumori
What is Nukumori (ぬくもり)?
In Japan, Nukumori describes a gentle sense of warmth both physical and emotional. It’s the comfort of warm meal and family waiting at home, the quiet pleasure of hot bath on a cold evening, or the feeling of being cared for by someone you love. Nukumori (ぬくもり) lives in these small everyday moments. A simple expression of warmth, comfort, and human connection.
A warm meal and a smile waiting at home. Your mum has prepared a warm stew for you. As you walk through the door, she smiles and says, “Okaeri (おかえり), how was your day?”
A warm bath after a long day. On a chilly day in November, you come home and slip into a warm bath. Take a deep breath and feel the warmth spread through your body. “A little time just for me.”
A heartwarming letter from your child. You open a little letter from your child. Inside, you find three simple words “Love you, Mum!”
How Japanese people find Nukumori(ぬくもり) in daily life?
1. Take a Yuzu-yu (柚子湯)
Click the image to take a look at YUZU-YU in Japan.
Yuzu-yu (柚子湯) | A Japanese Seasonal Bath Tradition
“It’s getting cold outside. Let’s take a Yuzu-Yu tonight.”
As you sink into the warm bath, the fresh scent of yuzu gently fills the air. It brings a feeling of warmth, relaxation, and happiness. It feels like a little gift to yourself.
The Tradition of Yuzu-yu
In Japan, the winter solstice, known as Toji (冬至), marks the gradual return of longer days For generations, families have enjoyed Yuzu-yu as a winter tradition, wishing for good health in the coming year.
Bring a Japanese Bathing Tradition Home
Fresh yuzu can sometimes be found at Asian grocery stores. Simply place a few whole yuzu fruits in a warm bath and take a little extra time to soak and relax.
2. Keep Your Three “Necks” Warm to stay cozy
Click the image to discover what people in Japan wear in November.
The three “Necks”| neck (Kubi), wrists (Tekubi), ankles(Ashikubi)
“Here, put this warm scarf on so you don’t catch a cold.” In Japan, keeping your “three necks” (your neck, wrists, and ankles) warm is one of those little habits that help you stay cosy.
A Simple Ritual to Stay Warm Before Heading Out
A little extra warmth can make all the difference on a cold day. Before heading outside, make sure your three necks are covered. Wrap a soft scarf around your neck, keep your wrists covered, and slip on a cozy pair of socks.
3. Start the Morning with Sayu (白湯)
Click the image and take a moment to enjoy the calming sound of water boiling.
Sayu (白湯) | A Warm Start to a Chilly Morning
“Shall we start the day with a cup of Sayu?” On a chilly morning, some people in Japan begin their day with a warm cup of Sayu (白湯). As you sip it slowly, you can feel your body gradually waking up for the day.
a Morning Ritual to ease into the day at your own pace.
Listen to the gentle sound of water boiling. Pour the hot water into your favorite mug and let it cool to a comfortable drinking temperature. While you wait, take a deep breath and give yourself a quiet moment.
4. Family Gatherings Around a Kotatsu (こたつ)
Click the image to see how the kotatsu (こたつ) is enjoyed in Japan.
Kotatsu (こたつ) | A Place That Brings everyone Closer
“It’s even warmer when we’re all in the Kotatsu!” A Kotatsu(こたつ) is a place where families gather and spend time together. They share mandarins, chat, and simply enjoy being together. Even the family cat and dog may curl up under the blanket.
What Does a Kotatsu Mean to People in Japan?
Everyone squeezes under the warm blanket, sometimes bumping feet with one another. It may get a little crowded, but that’s part of what makes a kotatsu so special. A kotatsu makes you look forward to coming home.
5. Enjoy the Warmth of Nabe (鍋)
Curious about Nabe? Click the image to learn how to make Japanese nabe at home.
Nabe (鍋) | Comfort Food That Warms You from Within
“Nothing beats a warm pot of Nabe on a chilly night.” Nabe(鍋）is one of the first foods that comes to mind when the weather gets cold. Filled with fresh vegetables and steaming hot tofu, it warms you from the inside out.
Sharing a Warm Meal Together in the evening
Knowing that a warm meal is waiting at home makes the journey home feel a little sweeter. Gathering around a steaming pot with family or friends makes the evening feel cosy and special.
Nukumori: Warmth and Comfort in Everyday Life
Nukumori can be found all around us, even in the little things we might not notice. Sometimes, we give it. Sometimes, we receive it. May you find a little Nukumori in your everyday life.
Experience a Moment of Nukumori at Kiku
As the days grow colder, discover warmth, stillness, and Japanese inspired care through our seasonal AKI experience.
What is one small ritual that helps you return yourself when life gets busy? Share yours with our Kiku community.