Staying Cozy at Home: How the Winter is Shifting Entertainment Preferences Amid Rising Prices

As winter approaches, data reveals that many individuals are opting for cozy indoor experiences rather than venturing outside. With forecasts predicting harsher winter conditions starting as early as December, a recent survey by Panasonic sheds light on changing preferences in entertainment for the colder months.

Survey Highlights

According to the survey conducted from November 14 to 17, 2025, which surveyed 900 people aged 20 to 70, numerous factors influenced the shift towards staying indoors. A staggering 65.9% of respondents indicated that high prices have made them hesitant to dine out or engage in outdoor activities. Furthermore, about 80.9% acknowledged that the cold weather prompted them to spend more time indoors. This aligns with a broader trend of increasing home-centric lifestyles due to external economic pressures.

The Rise of Indoor Living

Almost half (49%) of the individuals surveyed expressed a desire to remain indoors as much as possible this winter. Among those favoring indoor activities, over half (51.1%) are willing to invest in products that enhance their indoor experience instead of going out. This indicates a growing awareness of the value of creating enjoyable environments at home.

Home Entertainment Preferences

When it came to entertainment choices, the most popular pastime was watching television programs, with 59.6% of respondents selecting it as their preferred hobby at home. Close behind were streaming video services (41.7%) and movie watching (27.9%). Notably, preferences varied across generations; 77.3% of those in their 70s favored television, while 52.7% of those in their 20s chose streaming services as their top choice for home entertainment.

Investing in Self-Reward

Interestingly, the survey highlighted a trend towards treating oneself, as over 62.9% of respondents indicated they spend money on self-rewards. About 44.7% reported spending over 30,000 yen (approximately $300) annually on personal treats, and around 10.3% spent more than 150,000 yen (about $1,500). The motivations behind these expenditures often include stress relief and boosting motivation, with 57.4% citing stress relief as a primary reason for indulging.

Home Entertainment as Stress Relief

When asked about the importance of home entertainment in alleviating stress, a significant 73.6% affirmed its role during winter months. Furthermore, around 59.1% of participants expressed a desire to increase their time spent on home entertainment activities this winter, reflecting a societal shift towards finding joy and relaxation without the need to go outside.

Recommendations for Enhanced Home Entertainment

Given the continued rise in living costs and the impending cold, Panasonic has introduced several products aimed at transforming home entertainment experiences. Here are some standout options:

1. Fire TV Integrated 4K OLED Viera Z95B Series

The Viera features intuitive access to both live broadcasts and streaming content, making it easier than ever to enjoy entertainment from the comfort of your home. Its advanced picture quality and immersive audio system ensure that every viewing experience feels cinematic. Product Details

2. Network Recorder 'Miyotto' UN-ST20A

This versatile device allows users to stream live or recorded television anywhere in the house, without the hassle of cables. With a compact design and substantial memory, it's an excellent solution for customizable viewing experiences. Product Details

3. Neck Speaker System SC-GNW30

Ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in games or movies without losing out on comfort, this wireless neck speaker enhances sound quality while allowing users to keep their ears open for their surroundings. Product Details

Conclusion

The survey's findings signify a clear pivot towards prioritizing home entertainment in light of economic stresses and harsh winter weather. As the cold sets in, rather than withdrawing into isolation, many individuals are recognizing the importance of nurturing their home environments and finding joy in everyday leisure activities. Embracing these indoor-centric options presents a unique opportunity to enhance family and personal time this winter.