Japanese summer habits to survive the late heat

Even in the latter half of August, the hot days of the Japanese summer continue. We will introduce traditional Japanese ways to cool down, foods that are good for preventing summer fatigue, and cool sightseeing spots.

1. Traditional ways to cool down
【【Wind chimes】
Wind chimes are an essential part of the Japanese summer. They make a cool sound every time the wind blows, and have the effect of making you feel cool through your ears. The sound of wind chimes has long made Japanese people feel cool, and they have been loved as a comfortable summer feature.

【【Uchimizu (sprinkling water on the ground)】
Uchimizu is a traditional method of lowering the temperature by sprinkling water on paths and in gardens. As the water evaporates, it absorbs heat from the surrounding area, lowering the temperature, making it a popular custom for bringing about a sense of coolness on hot summer days.

【【Blinds】
Hanging blinds over windows and eaves allows breezes to pass through while blocking direct sunlight. Blinds are a traditional device that keeps the room cool without raising the temperature, and they also give a visually cool feeling.

2. Good foods to combat summer fatigue

【【Eel】
In Japan, it is customary to eat eel on the "Day of the Ox in the Doyo Period." Eel is highly nutritious, especially rich in vitamin B1, and is effective in preventing summer fatigue. Many people eat eel on hot summer days to build up stamina.

【【Somen】
Somen noodles are a staple summer dish. By dipping somen noodles, which have been thoroughly chilled in cold water, in chilled soup, you can cool down from the inside out. It's light and easy to eat, so it's a dish you can enjoy even when you don't have much of an appetite.

【【Pickled plum】
Umeboshi are rich in citric acid, which helps to recover from fatigue and increase appetite. Umeboshi are also effective in preventing summer fatigue, as they replenish salt that is easily lost in the summer heat. They are commonly eaten as a refreshing snack in rice balls or ochazuke.

3. Cool tourist spots
【【Oirase Stream】
Oirase Gorge in Aomori Prefecture is a beautiful mountain stream with cold water flowing through it, making it a cool tourist spot even in summer. You can enjoy a walk in the lush nature and feel the cool breeze.

【【Shirakawa-go】
Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture is a beautiful village lined with traditional gassho-style houses. Because it is located in the mountains, the climate is relatively cool even in summer. It is popular as a place where you can relax while enjoying nature and history.

【【Highland Resort】
Highland resorts all over Japan, such as Karuizawa in Nagano Prefecture and Kusatsu in Gunma Prefecture, are located at high altitudes, making them cool even in the summer. They are also famous as summer resorts, and are places where you can relax and forget about the summer heat.

Experience Japan's traditional ways to stay cool and experience its food culture, take advantage of cool tourist spots, and enjoy a healthy summer without suffering from heat fatigue.

At PLATCLOVER,YouTubeWe will introduce you to some of Japan's most popular tourist spots. Please take a look at the video and enjoy your trip to Japan!