Summer in Japan is known for its intense humidity and sweltering heat, especially from July through September. But the Japanese have mastered the art of staying cool in ways that are not only effective, but also deeply cultural. If you’re studying the language, exploring local way of doing thing is a great way to add cultural context to your learning. When taking an online Japanese course, consider choosing one that includes cultural topics. Whether you’re traveling to Japan or just want to bring some traditional summer wisdom into your own home, here are some time-tested, uniquely Japanese ways to beat the heat.

1. Catch the Breeze with a Uchiwa or Sensu

In Japan, uchiwa (うちわ – flat fan) and sensu (扇子 – folding fan) are summer essentials. You’ll often see people fanning themselves while walking through a summer festival or waiting for a train. These fans aren’t just practical—they’re often beautifully decorated with seasonal motifs like fireworks (hanabi) or goldfish (kingyo), adding a touch of elegance to summer outings. Unlike electric fans, these are silent, eco-friendly, and conveniently portable.

2. Feel the Sound of Cool: Furin Wind Chimes

Japanese wind chimes, or furin (風鈴), are hung near windows or doorways during summer. Made of glass or ceramic, their gentle ting-ting sound is said to create a psychological sense of coolness. It’s a sensory trick rooted in wabi-sabi aesthetics—appreciating subtle beauty in everyday life. While they don’t lower the temperature, many people swear that the soft chime helps them feel cooler in the heat.

3. Stay Dry and Stylish with a Tenugui

A tenugui (手拭い) is a thin, absorbent cotton towel used to wipe away sweat. They’re often decorated with traditional prints, and people wrap them around their necks or heads while working outdoors or attending festivals. More than just a hand towel, tenugui are a fashion statement and a practical way to stay dry and protected from the sun.

Don’t forget to pair it with a sun umbrealla, or higasa (日傘). These UV-protective parasols are popular in Japan, especially among women, and can significantly reduce the temperature you feel when walking outside. They’re more common than you might think and offer shade wherever you go—without having to chase trees.

4. Eat and Drink the Summer Heat Away

When it comes to summer refreshment, Japan serves up more than just cold air. Some of the most beloved traditions are edible (and drinkable!).

• Kakigori (かき氷): This shaved ice dessert comes topped with syrups like matcha, strawberry, or lemon. It’s a summer staple found everywhere from street stalls to modern cafés.

• Sōmen (そうめん): Thin wheat noodles served cold with dipping sauce. Light, quick to make, and refreshing—especially when enjoyed with nagashi-sōmen, the playful version where noodles slide down a bamboo chute.

• Watermelon (スイカ / suika): A beloved symbol of summer in Japan, watermelon is often enjoyed chilled and sliced at family gatherings, picnics, or fireworks festivals. Some people even sprinkle a pinch of salt to bring out its sweetness.

• Barley Tea (麦茶 / mugicha): This caffeine-free drink is served cold and is a household staple during the summer months. It’s toasty, mild, and incredibly hydrating, often kept in big jugs in the fridge. Some schools and workplaces even offer it in vending machines.

5. Yukata and Summer Festivals

Summer is also yukata season. A yukata (浴衣) is a casual cotton kimono worn at festivals (matsuri) and fireworks displays. It’s much lighter than a traditional kimono, making it ideal for summer evenings. Yukata come in endless patterns and colors and are often worn with wooden sandals (geta) and accessories like folding fans and drawstring bags (kinchaku).

Wearing a yukata can give you the full experience of a Japanese summer—and it’s also surprisingly breathable in the heat!

6. Use Cooling Goods from Japanese Drugstores

Japanese convenience stores and pharmacies offer an amazing range of cooling products:

• Cooling gel sheets (熱さまシート) for your forehead

• Cooling spray (冷感スプレー) for your clothes or skin

• Cooling wipes with menthol

• Portable fans and even ice packs that you can slip into your clothes

These items are perfect for commuters and travelers. If you’re visiting Japan, be sure to stop by a konbini (コンビニ) and pick up a few!

7. Find Relief in Summer Sounds and Scenery

Japanese summers are also filled with nature’s own soundtrack: the loud buzzing of semi (cicadas), the rustle of bamboo, and the glow of hotaru (fireflies) in the evening. Many Japanese people say that connecting with these natural elements gives them a deeper appreciation for the season, even if it’s hot outside.

Incorporating these traditions into your life can also deepen your understanding of Japanese culture. If you’re looking to go beyond textbooks, working with a Japanese tutor online can help you learn expressions and customs related to seasonal events—like what to say at a summer festival or how to wear a yukata properly. Watch this video for more tips on how to stay cool in Japan during summer.

Why not make this summer a little more nihon-teki (日本的 – Japanese-style)?