How to beat the heat in Japan
If you have been watching the news for the last few weeks you can see this summer in Japan has been breaking temperature records. The vast majority of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu islands have forecast of temperatures over 35C (95F). Japan is used to having hot and humid summers but this blazing heatwave is unusual and many places across Japan have never needed air-conditioning until now. So they are experiencing the full effect of this summer’s crazy heat. But there are a few ways to beat the heat in Japan
では行きましょう！
Go swimming.
What better way to get beat the heat and get some exercise in. Your options are facility pools, water parks, and nature. There are some great natural swimming spots all across Japan. Beaches are an obvious choice but they are often crowded, not so clean, and lack proper shade. Instead, opt for finding a river upstream from cities (lots of trash fill city rivers). Rivers in rural areas are usually cleaner and not always packed with people. Without the sand reflecting the sun and the trees providing shade, rivers are cooler than the beach. You also do not have to worry about tattoos.
*Warning: rivers can be very dangerous especially during typhoon season as the water comes rushing down the mountains for days after. There will not be lifeguards stationed at rivers like some beaches, water parks and pools. Try to always swim with someone else so they can respond in case of an emergency.
Savor some kakigori (かき氷)
Kakigori is the superior version of shaved ice. It’s usually made from condensed milk giving it a creamier flavor and fluffy texture. There are several flavors you can choose so you can always find a flavor you like and even add toppings like little mochi, bean paste, and fruits. You need to have at least one kakigori during summer in Japan if you live here or are visiting! It's sold at festivals, coffee shops, conbinis, and restaurants. You can find it almost anywhere during the summer months. It’s a summertime staple in Japan and is synonymous with the name summer. Kakigori is immediately refreshing and cooling and a great way to beat the heat. Just watch those calories.
Out in public
Commuting to the gym? Going to watch a movie with some friends? Dressed up for a date? Don’t sweat it. Really. It’s not fun to show up and be covered in sweat. The summers in Japan are hot and humid and trying to stay cool so you don’t sweat is difficult when you have to go out in the heat. Some pro-tips:
Use your surroundings wisely. When you take a train or subway go through the mall and other buildings attached to the station when leaving to avoid going outside and enjoy the AC.
If you’re meeting some friends at someplace (with AC), show up 15 minutes early. Like we mentioned earlier you can’t completely avoid sweating when going out in Japan but you don’t have to be all sweaty when you meet your friends or date. Show up early and cool off in the nice air-conditioned building before they show up.
In your house
Mother nature is making your house an oven now let mother nature make it cool. Open your windows to get a good breeze. Yes you could use AC but it’s expensive and you can get enough relief with a fan and some open windows. Also, you don’t have to wear clothes in your house. ;)
Drink that mizu
The most important thing to do to beat the heat is to stay hydrated. Drink more water than you usually would. This summer in Japan has been a dangerous one. Over 22,000 people in Japan have been hospitalized because of heatstroke since June. Heatstroke is often accompanied by dehydration. Drinking some ice cold water will help keep your body cool and also rehydrate the extra liquids your body is losing from this extreme heat.