Keeping Cool in the Summer
8/21/2016
Beat the heat with Japanese technology
Considered as a hub for modern technology, Tokyo has the latest and the greatest. In the world of business, many Japanese offices have instituted a “coolbiz” policy, where employees get to wear a more casual wardrobe during the summer months in order to reduce energy costs. However, it doesn’t stop there, Japan’s clothing industry has responded to this policy by creating new cool clothes that help keep out the heat. Companies are manufacturing suits that block out infrared light and companies like Uniqlo are producing undergarments with “cool tech”. Part of a line called “Airism”, these clothes, using a unique breathable fabric called “cupro” absorb moisture and allow the wearer to feel cool while working.
Pick up some cool stuff
Clothes aren’t the only thing that Tokyo has to keep you cool. If you head to one of Tokyo’s drug stores such as Matsumoto Kiyoshi you can find a variety of cool items lining the shelves.
These include handheld fans that also produce mist, wet tissues that eliminate sweat, and odor and sprays that keep you cool on those hot summer days. These usually cost only a few hundred yen, so pick up some the next time you feel yourself break a sweat out and about in the city!
Try some cool seasonal food
Tokyo (and all of Japan) prides itself on its distinct four seasons, and summer is no exception. Summer favorites include 冷やし中華 (hiyashi chuka) cold ramen topped with egg, imitation crab, ham and vegetables and 素麺 (sōmen) cold soba noodles dipped into a flavorful broth. If you are looking to get in on the sweet side of things, try かき氷 (kakigori) shaved ice. But this is not your typical red or blue syrup in a paper cone. Japanese shaved ice takes it up a notch with a ton of flavor varieties, piled high with fruit and other goodies.
Keep cool like a native
One popular item in Japanese summer garb is the yukata, a casual type of kimono usually worn at summer festivals. The coolest of these are made with chijimi fabric, which originated in Niigata. The fabric doesn’t stick to the body when you sweat, allowing you to feel the warm breezes of Tokyo’s summer nights on Tokyo Bay cruises or during fireworks festivals.
There is no denying that Tokyo’s summer is not only hot but really じめじめ (jimejime) “humid” almost every day from the beginning of 梅雨 (tsuyu) Japan’s rainy season through September. Recently, Tokyo is even trying to use the heat to their advantage by the implementation of solar panels as an alternative energy resource! We hope these cool methods help you beat the heat during the summer months and that you enjoy your time in Tokyo!
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