Beat the Heat: How to Stay Cool in Japan During the Humid Summer

Japan's summer months are vibrant, offering a chance to immerse yourself in rich culture, mouthwatering food, and stunning landscapes. However, with humidity levels soaring and temperatures often hitting 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit), managing the heat can feel like a challenge, especially for those hailing from colder countries. Here are the tips that locals use to stay cool during the increasingly hot summer season.

Sweating Solutions: Combat the Drips

1. Deodorant with antiperspirant: Many Japanese deodorants smell great but don’t contain active ingredients to control sweating. They’re essentially scented products meant to keep you smelling fresh, not dry. If you tend to sweat a lot in the heat, you’ll need something stronger. Check out the RosePlusJapan list of the best antiperspirants you can buy in Japan—or, if you’re traveling here, we strongly recommend bringing a reliable one from home.
   

2. 

   Use a small towel: Do as the locals do and carry a small, absorbent towel in your bag (or around your neck). It’s common in Japan to see people dabbing their faces with these towels on hot days to stay cool and wick away sweat. They’re affordable, widely available, and often come in cute designs. You can usually find three material variations: microfiber, cotton weave, and bath towel fabric. All work well, but the bath towel material is especially absorbent if you sweat a lot. Consider picking up a few extras—they also make great souvenirs!

   
   

3. Cooling Wipes: These wipes are a quick way to freshen up on the go. Known as 冷感シート, these wipes are available everywhere from drugstores to 100 yen shops and are an essential for many locals. Popular brands like Gatsby and Biore offer wipes in various scents and strengths, including extra-large sheets and super cooling formulas that leave a refreshing sensation. You’ll find them at convenience stores, drugstores, and even 100 yen shops.
   

   

4. Electric handheld fan: Portable electric fans are a popular summer essential in Japan, especially for locals on the go. These compact, rechargeable fans provide instant relief in crowded places like train stations or while walking outdoors. Lightweight and easy to carry, they’re a practical and stylish way to stay cool in the summer heat. It is common to see people all around with these small fans held up to their faces

1. Dry shampoo: If you have bangs and love a fuller look, this tip is for you. On hot and humid days, dry shampoo is your best friend. It helps refresh your bangs and keeps them from looking oily or flat. A quick sprinkle can absorb sweat and oil, giving your hair a clean, fluffy finish without needing a full wash. If you’re traveling, put a small amount into a travel-size container and use a round brush to fluff up your bangs throughout the day. You can find dry shampoo at most drugstores, but our top pick is LUSH’s dry shampoo, available at LUSH stores across Japan.

   
   
   
   

Sun Protection Essentials

• Japanese sunscreen: Japanese sunscreens are known for their lightweight textures, high SPF, and innovative formulas that work well under makeup or on their own. Popular brands like Biore UV, Skin Aqua, and Anessa offer options that feel like skincare. They're non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and water-resistant. You can find them easily at drugstores, Don Quijote, or even convenience stores.

• Sun parasol: In Japan, parasols are more than just functional—they're a fashionable accessory seen everywhere during the summer. They provide instant shade and relief from the sun while protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Many Japanese parasols are specifically labeled as UV-cut or UV-blocking (UVカット), and use special coatings or fabrics that reflect or absorb ultraviolet light. Depending on the design, they can block up to 90–100% of UV rays. Lightweight and easy to carry, parasols are a go-to summer essential for many locals.

  When shopping for one, look for labels like:

  • UVカット率 99% (UV cut rate 99%)

  • 遮光 (shading)

  • 遮熱 (heat shielding)

  
  

Japanese Summer Fashion and Comfort

Your clothing choices play a major role in staying comfortable during Japan’s sweltering summer. Japanese summer fashion tends to favor long, loose, and airy silhouettes—think lightweight dresses, oversized tops, and breathable dusters.

Stick to natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and bamboo. These materials are breathable and allow airflow, unlike synthetic fabrics which tend to trap heat and moisture. A simple cotton dress or loose linen shirt is much more comfortable than tight-fitting clothes on a humid day. If you tend to sweat a lot, consider wearing a sweat-wicking inner layer to prevent sweat marks from showing through your outfit. If you happen to be visiting a festival, a summer yukata checks all the boxes for cool and comfortable summer fashion. Find out how to choose the right plus size yukata for you!

Backpacks = Back sweat: If you’re carrying a backpack while walking around, heat and moisture will build up between the bag and your back. Consider using a handheld bag or choosing breathable mesh-style backpacks for long days outside.

Avoid thigh chafing: Long walks in hot weather can lead to painful inner-thigh rashes. Protect your skin by wearing bike shorts or anti-chafe bands under skirts and dresses. In a pinch, a sprinkle of powder-style dry shampoo can offer temporary relief.

Seek Shade and Air Conditioning

When you’re out exploring in the summer heat, always be on the lookout for shade. Japanese parks—like Ueno Park or Yoyogi Park—are full of trees that offer a cool, peaceful break from the sun. Take a moment to rest, rehydrate, and enjoy the surroundings.

In shopping areas or sightseeing spots, use covered walkways, building overhangs, or even bus stops as brief shady escapes. Just a few minutes out of the direct sun can make a big difference in how you feel.

Need a full break from the heat? Step into a convenience store, café, or department store—all are air-conditioned and great for cooling down. It’s common for locals to duck inside for a while to escape the heat. If you stop at a café or konbini, be sure to buy a drink or snack before taking a seat, especially if it's busy. Grab something cold, recharge, and head back out feeling refreshed.

Stay Hydrated—and Add Some Ice

Staying hydrated is one of the most important things you can do during Japan’s hot and humid summer. Whether you’re walking through a shrine, browsing a shopping street, or waiting for your train, make sure to drink water, cold tea, or a sports drink regularly. You’ll find plenty of options at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson. In extreme heat, your body can lose up to 1 liter of water per hour through sweat. Without proper hydration, you’re at greater risk for heat exhaustion, which can quickly ruin your day.

Pro tip: Many convenience stores also sell single cups of ice in the freezer section. Pick one up and pour your favorite drink over it for an instant refresh. It’s an easy, affordable way to cool down fast when you’re on the go.

Cool Off After Dark: What to Do in Japan Once the Sun Sets

When the sun sets, Japan comes alive. Summer nights are a great time to explore without dealing with the intense heat of the day. Many popular shopping areas like Shibuya, Dotonbori, and Harajuku stay open into the evening, with most stores closing around 9 PM. Convenience stores, of course, are open 24 hours, making it easy to grab a drink or snack at any time.

If you're hungry or looking to relax, Japan offers plenty of options. Izakaya pubs, ramen shops, rooftop beer gardens, and food stalls offer a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the atmosphere. Many bars and izakayas stay open past midnight, and you can even find late-night cafes in busy districts. In summers, you will find plenty of outdoor seating so you can enjoy the night atmosphere as you enjoy your food or drinks.

Summer also brings a wave of seasonal night events. From colorful outdoor festivals and fireworks shows to lantern-lit markets and evening parades, there’s always something happening after dark, especially on weekends. Whether you’re shopping, eating, or just strolling under the city lights, the night is a perfect time to experience Japan in a cooler and more laid-back way.

Transportation: It's Going to be HOT

Japan’s public transportation system is one of the most efficient in the world, but during the summer months, it can also be one of the sweatiest. While most JR trains and some newer subway cars are air-conditioned, not all local buses or older subway lines have strong or consistent AC. Even when air conditioning is available, it may not be powerful enough to fully combat the sweltering heat, especially when the trains are packed.

To cope, you’ll often see windows cracked open on buses and trains. This helps circulate air, but when it’s scorching outside, it does little more than air out the damp, humid smell of summer.

If you want to avoid being packed in with a crowd of sweaty salarymen, try to skip rush hour. The busiest times are typically 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM in the morning and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the evening, especially in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka.

Whenever possible, plan your travel during off-peak hours for a more comfortable and less crowded experience. Carrying a small portable fan, cooling wipes, or even a chilled drink can make your ride a lot more bearable.

---

Enjoy Summer in Japan

Experiencing Japan in the hot and humid summer is completely possible and can be very rewarding. With a few smart tips and a little planning, you can stay cool and enjoy everything Japan has to offer.

Choose breathable fabrics, carry helpful accessories, and schedule your day to avoid the worst of the heat. Take time to enjoy local festivals, explore the culture, and savor new foods at your own pace.

Stay cool, stay safe, and make the most of your summer adventure in Japan!