Japan Rolls Out Human Fridges to Beat Record Heatwave

Sun Sep 06 2026 03:43:54 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Japan’s scorching summer prompts the launch of vending‑machine‑style cooling units that cost ¥1.5 million each, as heatstroke cases climb.

Statistics reveal that in the past fortnight Japan has treated over 53,000 patients for heatstroke, with 79 deaths declared. In response, the newly named Do Hiemon—Japanese for ‘Cooling Box’—is being deployed in public venues and marketed to businesses. The unit, costing ¥1.5 million (about $9,400), takes inspiration from freezer vending machines and offers a personal refrigerated space. BBC correspondent Kurumi Mori tested one in Tokyo, noting its compact design and ability to keep users cool in sweltering streets. Some analysts say the innovation could reduce heat‑related illnesses if widely adopted.

Japan Rolls Out Human Fridges to Beat Record Heatwave

In recent weeks, Japan has faced a soaring heatwave, with over 53,000 cases of heatstroke treated and 79 confirmed deaths.

To combat the crisis, a new cooling device called Do Hiemon—literally “Cooling Box”—has been introduced in public areas and leased to businesses. Each unit costs ¥1.5 million (about $9,400).

The design borrows from vending‑machine technology, offering a compact, self‑contained cooler that users can step into for relief. BBC Tokyo correspondent Kurumi Mori tested one in the streets of Tokyo, noting its ease of use and ability to maintain a chill even in sweltering crowds.

Health experts suggest that widespread deployment could reduce heat‑related illnesses, but questions remain about distribution logistics, affordability for small firms, and long‑term sustainability.