How can you keep cool during the summer in Japan, even on the hottest and most humid days? This week, we answer this question! Summer plus humidity is a recipe for hot temperatures. As a result, it’s essential to take care of yourself to avoid heatstroke and stay cool throughout the day.
How Can I Stay Comfortable Outside During Summer in Japan?
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You may be thinking to yourself, how do people in Japan survive this heat!?
Japanese summers are fierce; due to climate change, Japan is slowly losing its spring and autumn seasons. If you’re from a country with milder temperatures, Japan’s weather—especially in urban areas—may feel particularly muggy and uncomfortable compared to what you’re used to.
Japanese people may appear relatively comfortable despite the heat, but just like you, they can easily suffer heat exhaustion and heatstroke. That’s why companies in Japan continue to develop many unique products to help people beat the heat. In addition, Japanese people commonly use many other tips and tricks to keep cool.
Summer in Japan Essentials
If you want to enjoy your summer outings and not have to tether yourself to your air conditioner all day, here’s some advice to try.
Choose Lightweight Clothes
You likely already know the importance of dressing right for the season, but here’s a reminder just in case: Wear breathable, lightweight clothes made of natural fibers. Uniqlo’s AIRism line is popular amongst tourists and locals for its breathable technology to keep you cool in the summer.
Even though wearing long-sleeves and full pants may look hot, many people in Japan do this to protect themselves from the sun and keep the heat off their skin. If you prefer tank tops and shorts, that’s fine! Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing that covers more skin can actually help you stay cooler. Just remember to apply sunscreen to exposed skin.
Replenish Your Body
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The right food and drinks can do wonders for lowering your internal temperature. Drinking water is important for your health, but don’t forget to get essential minerals, too. Japanese sports drinks and mugicha (barley tea) are ideal options to replenish electrolytes. Keep some salt candies in your bag to have throughout the day.
There are also many seasonal foods that can help you refuel and rehydrate, such as shaved ice and watermelon. See our full list here of popular summer foods in Japan for some ideas.
Appreciate the Art of Japanese Fans
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Sensu, or folding fans, symbolize traditional Japanese culture. Artisans often cover them in beautiful decorative designs and hold them together with bamboo. You can still find this type of fan in Japan today, and handheld fans that stay flat without folding. These paper fans are so ubiquitous that stores even give them out for free on the streets to advertise their businesses.
Try out these fans, or upgrade to today’s high-tech options such as mini handheld fans that charge via USB, fans that hang around your neck to keep your face and upper body cool, and even jackets with fans built-in.
Use Umbrellas on Sunny Days
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Think umbrellas are only for rain? Japan begs to differ. It’s common to see people with black and UV-blocking umbrellas on the most sweltering hot days of summer in Japan. It might feel odd to use an umbrella on a sunny day if you’re not used to it, but it protects you from harsh UV rays and helps you stay cool.
Don’t Forget Towels and Wipes
Perhaps the most basic tip of all is to utilize towels and wipes to keep yourself from overheating. Soak towels in cold water and place them on your body (such as on the back of your neck) to help you stay cool. Carry a small dry towel to wipe away unwanted sweat.
There are also many cooling wipes (sometimes called “body sheets”) on the market in Japan, packed with ingredients like menthol to help you wipe your parched skin while feeling icy cool.
Surviving Summer in Japan
Summer in Japan can be a challenge, especially for those not used to the hot temperatures. Try out some or all of these tips to stay cool and avoid getting heatstroke.
Related Articles:
- Indoor Activities to Stay Cool this Summer in Tokyo
- The Best Ice Cream From the Supermarket This Summer in Japan
- A Simple Guide to Japanese Sunscreen
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