In Japan’s urban areas, summer isn’t just about high temperatures—it’s about relentless humidity, dense crowds, and the heat radiating from concrete and buildings.
Imagine commuting in a suit when it’s 35°C (95°F) with 80% humidity—yes, that’s a typical summer day in Tokyo or Osaka.
Whether you’re working from an office or at home, heat can quietly chip away at your concentration and health. And when your well-being drops, so does your work performance.
To help you survive—and stay productive—we’ve rounded up practical, easy-to-implement summer heat countermeasures, especially useful for those new to Japan’s climate.👇
🧊 Smart Tips to Beat the Heat
- Wearable cooling gear: Try a neck cooler or a cooling scarf — great for staying cool hands-free while working or commuting.
- Hydration + salt intake: Drink water regularly with a bit of salt or electrolytes to prevent heat exhaustion. This is crucial even indoors with air conditioning.
- Desk cooling tools: Use a cooling seat cushion or a quiet USB fan to improve comfort during desk work.
- Breathable clothing: Choose moisture-wicking materials and innerwear with high breathability. These are commonly available in Japan at stores like Uniqlo, GU, or Muji.
🏢 For Office Workers in Japan
- Summer suits: Opt for suits made of lightweight, breathable fabric or washable materials — often labeled “夏用 (natsuyou)” or “クールビズ (cool biz)” in stores.
- Cooling backpack pads: Attach one to your work bag or backpack to reduce back sweat during your commute.
🏠 For Remote Workers
- Boost air conditioning efficiency: Use blackout curtains and a circulator fan to evenly distribute cool air and lower energy costs.
- Change your work location during the day: If one room gets direct sunlight in the afternoon, consider switching to a shadier spot for better comfort.
💡 Treat Cooling as a Part of Your Work Setup
Once you start feeling the effects of heat fatigue, it’s already too late.
That’s why it’s important to treat heat protection tools as part of your everyday work gear — just like a laptop or notebook.
Stay cool, stay focused — and have a safer, more productive summer in Japan!
