5 must-have items to survive summer in Japan

Summers in Japan are unlike summers I've experienced anywhere else. Before living here I was used to dry heat, which in my opinion is far more manageable than the sticky humidity served up here. There are certain things that are “must haves” to get through the warmer months as unscathed as possible here, and these are my top 5.

A folding fan

Sure, newbies to Japan might scoff at the decidedly simple folding fan, but I feel like everyone quickly becomes a convert. Air conditioning in many places is an exception rather than a rule, and it’s handy to have something in your bag that you can whip out to make any situation infinitely cooler. Another thing I love about them is that they’re just so pretty in many cases -- it’s like having a work of art with you anywhere you go!

Dehumidifier(s)

The amount of moisture in the air here in summer is mind blowing, so a good-quality dehumidifier ranks highly as one of my must-haves. We bought this one off Amazon Japan and ended up buying a second because we’ve been so impressed with how well it works. Each device has a capacity of just over 6 liters, and there’s something satisfying about seeing the canister fill up with water. It’s also done a great job of preventing mold since we’ve got it. There are also the disposable kind of dehumidifiers that I like for keeping enclosed spaces like closets moisture-free.

A kakigori maker

Look, on the practicality scale, this isn’t a must. But it’s fun to have shaved ice at the turn of a handle, and that’s what this little device does. If you have kids, I highly recommend getting one -- it’s inexpensive, cute, and has held up well over repeated use during several summer seasons. Syrups can be found at most supermarkets across the country at this time of year, but if you’re having trouble finding any you can always turn to online options.

Stuff to keep mosquitoes at bay

Country Japan dwellers can likely commiserate with me on this one, especially those who live in areas with flooded rice fields at this time of year -- it’s a breeding ground for mosquitoes. There are a wide variety of ways to try to keep those little suckers at bay, including mosquito repellent stickers and bracelets that tend to be infused with citronella or other scents that they don’t particularly like. You can typically find those at 100 yen stores or kids stores like Nishimatsuya. I also like diffusing citronella oil around the house - I think it helps!

Sunscreen!

Last but definitely not least, a good sunscreen is such an important thing during summer, but I wear sunscreen all year round, even in the dead of winter. I chalk it up to growing up in Australia where you're constantly warned about the dangers of skin cancer and the hole in the ozone layer. There are a wide variety of brands here, but lately I’ve been gravitating towards Anessa, which was recommended by a friend. Their sunscreen applies really nicely, and doesn’t feel sticky or heavy.