In brief
Japan’s summer heat is reaching dangerous levels, with over 53,000 heatstroke treatments and 79 deaths in the last two months. To address this, companies are deploying the Do Hiemon – a 1.5m¥ “Cooling Box” inspired by freezer vending machines – in public spaces and sold to businesses. The device offers portable, high‑capacity cooling, intended to reduce heat‑related illness. BBC Tokyo correspondent Kurumi Mori tested the unit on site, noting a noticeable chill inside the compact, fridge‑style case.
Worsening Summer Heat in Japan
Japan’s latest heat wave has pushed temperatures to alarming highs, resulting in more than 53,000 heat‑stroke treatments and 79 fatalities over the past two months. Rising temperatures in cities and rural areas alike highlight a growing public health crisis that demands immediate action.
The ‘Human Fridge’ Solution: Do Hiemon
In response, a new cooling unit called the Do Hiemon – literally “Cooling Box” – is being rolled out across public spaces such as train stations, parks, and shopping districts. The device, which costs 1.5 million Japanese yen (about $9,400), offers a portable, refrigerator‑style experience that can preserve cool air for up to hours. According to CEO Testsuya Nakayama, the design was inspired by the familiar freezer‑style vending machines that dispense cold items, streamlining production and easing adoption by businesses.
Business Take‑up and Public Perception
Businesses are already buying units for use in cafés, office lobbies and warehouses, hoping to keep products and staff cool. While the high price point has sparked some debate, many see the devices as a worthwhile investment to protect health and reduce the risk of heat‑related illnesses. BBC Tokyo correspondent Kurumi Mori visited a trial site and reported that the interior remained noticeably cool, providing an instant, breathable respite from the sweltering heat outside.
