Summer in Tokyo can be intense—and this year, the heatwave arrived especially early. Luckily, Japan offers plenty of clever gadgets, refreshing foods, and smart accessories designed to help you stay cool and comfortable during the hottest months.
Neck cooling rings
Neck cooling rings are a popular way to beat Japan’s summer heat by targeting the neck, a key pulse point for regulating body temperature. There are two main types. The first one is a phase change cooling ring, which contain a gel that solidifies at room temperature (around 26–28°C) and gradually melts to absorb body heat. The second one is the electric neck fans, which are lightweight, USB-rechargeable devices that blow air toward the neck and face. Both are reusable and widely used by adults and children alike. You can find them throughout Japan in summer at stores like Don Quijote, Tokyu Hands, and Daiso, or online via Amazon Japan and Rakuten.
Portable hand fans
Portable hand fans are also very popular because they are compact and easy to carry. These fans provide instant personal cooling, making them ideal for commuting, outdoor activities, or waiting on train platforms. They come in various types, including handheld, foldable, wearable clip-on, and even misting fans that spray a fine cooling mist. Many are USB-rechargeable, offer multiple speed settings, and some even include aroma pads for a refreshing scent. You can find them widely across Japan at stores like Don Quijote, Loft, Tokyu Hands, Daiso, and online through Amazon Japan or Rakuten.
Cooling towels
Cooling towels are a simple yet effective way to stay refreshed during Japan’s hot and humid summers. Made from special moisture-retaining and quick-drying fabrics, these towels cool the skin through evaporation. You simply soak them in water, wring them out, and snap or shake them to activate the cooling effect. They’re reusable, lightweight, and ideal for outdoor activities, sports, commuting, or just walking around the city.
Cooling mists and sprays
Cooling mists and sprays are designed to provide a quick, refreshing sensation by lowering skin temperature or creating a cooling effect through menthol or alcohol-based formulas. There are two main types: body sprays, which can be applied directly to the skin or clothing, and face mists, which offer a gentle hydration boost while cooling the skin. Some sprays even contain UV protection, making them ideal for on-the-go outdoor use. You’ll often find them in compact, portable bottles perfect for handbags or backpacks. Popular brands include Biore, Shiseido, and Gatsby, and can be found at the local drugstores or online.
Sun umbrellas
Sun umbrellas, unlike regular umbrellas, are designed with UV-protective fabrics to block harmful rays and keep you cooler when walking outdoors. They come in various styles—from compact foldable designs perfect for handbags to larger, more elegant models. Many feature reflective coatings or light colors to maximize sun protection. Sun umbrellas are widely available in department stores, convenience shops, and online.
Cooling pillows and sheets
Cooling pillows and sheets help regulate body temperature, making sleep more comfortable during Japan’s hot, humid summers. Typically, they’re made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials like cooling gels, bamboo fibers, or synthetic fabrics. As a result, they promote airflow and help dissipate body heat throughout the night. For example, many cooling pillows include gel inserts or ventilated cores to prevent heat buildup. Meanwhile, cooling sheets often feature quick-drying, sweat-absorbing properties that keep the bed feeling fresh. Because of these benefits, they’re especially popular during the summer months. You can find them in stores like Muji, Nitori, and Loft, or online across Japan.
Salty drinks and candies
Lastly, salty drinks and salty candies are also very popular in Japan during summer. When it’s hot, the body loses both water and salt, which can lead to fatigue or heatstroke. To prevent this, many people turn to sports drinks like Pocari Sweat or Aquarius, which contain electrolytes. At the same time, salt candies (shio-ame) offer a sweet-and-salty way to restore balance. For example, lemon or plum-flavored varieties combine salt with citric acid to refresh and energize. Because they’re portable, these candies are ideal for commuting, outdoor work, or sports. You can find them at convenience stores, drugstores, and online throughout Japan.
