How to Survive Summer in Japan

Summer in Japan will probably be unlike summer in your home country. From the American side, everything is over air-conditioned and you almost never feel hot inside a building. My first summer in Japan was kind of miserable and I wish someone told me that Japan was an energy-saving country because they don’t turn on the air conditioning everywhere. When you first step off the plane into Narita International Airport, a harsh reality check will commence. You’ll most likely be hot and sweaty from traveling for such long hours and there is no cooling system. Cue more swass. When you arrive at your apartment, don’t over air condition because it’s super expensive and just as bad as going out into the heat. Even those of you from warm climates are not safe.

The most important part to remember is to let your body adjust to the heat as much as you can. Instead of turning the aircon all the way down, turn it up a couple of degrees and slowly turn it up higher. Here’s some tips to help you survive your first summer in Japan and make the most of it!

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Table of Contents

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1. Handheld Fan, Sweat Towel, Extra Clothes

If you bike to work or run around with kids all day, it might be a good idea to bring an extra change of clothes. Every school is different, but mine didn’t turn on the air conditioner until 9:30, so everyone suffered until 10 minutes into the first period. A small hand held fan will help you stay cool while waiting for the air conditioning to turn on. You can get the desk fan and sweat towels at the 100 yen store.

2. Cooling Wipes

Cooling Wipes are a life saver when you discover them. Wipe them on your body and feel the icy effect take place. They feel so good after you’ve been sweating. Be careful not to use the body wipes on your face because they sting. Usually, there are separate wipes for that. Gatsby is a popular brand and I often find these at the convenience stores. There are also different wipes for men and women. As you can see, the women’s wipes are super cute, but the men’s wipes pack more punch. Pick your flavor.

3. Get Light and Breezy Clothes

One of the best brands to keep you cool is the Uniqlo Airism series. These are designed to keep you cooler and evaporate the sweat from your body faster. The dry-tech clothes also do the same and it’s a good idea to have tank tops and shirts with this technology. Whatever your preference is, I prefer loose cotton clothes and cotton undershirts.

For the ladies: Remember you’re in Japan so no showing your armpits, shoulders or cleavage. Try to find clothes that fit the above criteria that will keep you cool. I struggled with this, but I find solace in taking off my pants after work. 😉

4. Don’t worry about being sweaty

Coming from an American standpoint it feels unprofessional to sweat in a professional setting. The Japanese don’t really have a negative stigma against this. If anything you’ll always hear, “You have good circulation! You must be so healthy.” If you’re sweating, chances are everyone else is too and it’s not that bad.

I recommend wearing your favorite lightweight spandex shorts under your skirts or dresses. It helps lessen the chub rub and sweating onto your clothing and furniture. And yes, I know it doesn’t look cute to sweat through all your clothes. While living on Okinawa, I began dong eyelash extension because they were cheap. In addition, no matter what mascara I used (even waterproof), it would always melt off my lashes due to heat and humidity.

5. Use Sunblock

If you’re particular about a brand of sunblock you like to use, then bring your own from home. I’m absolutely obsessed with AHC’s sunscreen stick. It’s so lightweight and literally feels like I have nothing on my face. A popular Japanese brand you can also use is the Skin Aqua brand because it is also water based and makes you feel less sticky in the humidity.

6. Stay hydrated

It’s easy to get heat stroke or dehydrated. Drink at least 1.5 liters or more a day. Aquarius has a a low-calorie sports drink to help combat the fluids you lose over the summer. (P.S. Drink Pocari Swass aka Pocari Sweat if you hate yourself.) Don’t underestimate what can happen to you in a climate you aren’t familiar with. Heat stroke is no joke in Japan and there are even signs warning to stay cool and hydrated.

7. Eat cold dishes

Cold soups, salads, soba and veggies are your best friend. Make juice and brew cold tea. Japan grows their vegetables in seasons and the foods that will help keep you cool are cilantro (if you can find it or grow your own), melon, cucumber and mint. These feel the best to me during the cold months.

8. Make a Summer Kit

Some things you should include in your kit are a handheld fan, cooling wipes, a sweat towel, oil blotting wipes, and deodorant. (You never know when you’re going to smell.) I also keep a small vial of perfume. I always kept these items in my purse at all times.

Take advantage of the free air conditioning at your school, the mall, or the movie theater. I hang out in the grocery store for longer than I have to sometimes just so I save money on the expensive electric bill. Swim at the community pool, find a nice river or lake, or go to the beach. Be prepared for the changes in your skin because a different climate and diet will cause changes in your body.

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