Appliances to help you stay cool during summer in Japan

Japan’s summers are only getting hotter, with 2023 and 2024 recording the hottest temperatures ever on the archipelago. Whether you’re sweating through your commute or trying to stay cool in your apartment, everyone needs a break from the unrelenting heat. While air conditioners are a non-negotiable, there are plenty of other options to help you keep those climbing temperatures down. Here are some other appliances that will keep you cool during summer in Japan.

Average Electricity Bill in Summer in Japan

Appliances To Keep You Cool in Summer in Japan

1. Oscillating Fan
2. Ceiling Fan
3. Misting Fan
4. Air Circulator
5. Portable or Spot Coolers
6. Dehumidifiers
7. Ice Makers
8. Cooling Mats and Pads 
9. Nagashi Somen Makers
10. Shaved Ice Machines

Average Electricity Bill in Summer in Japan

Although many parts of Japan have scorching summers, July to September’s electricity bills can be some of the cheapest of the year. While gas is still used in summer, it tends to be relatively less than in winter. 

• The national average electric bill between July and September is roughly ¥8,731 per month for two-person households. 

As for regional household averages:

• Northern regions like Hokkaido/Tohoku average ¥8,700
• The Kanto region averages ¥8,268 
• Southern and warmer regions like Kyushu/Okinawa average ¥8,399 

Appliances To Keep You Cool in Summer in Japan

While sweltering summer weather and air conditioners go hand-in-hand, we have compiled a list of household appliances that go beyond the AC in fun and function. These gadgets will help you keep cool and reduce your reliance on the energy-hungry air conditioner.  

Oscillating Fan

To help your air conditioner cool more efficiently, try an oscillating fan which swivels and has settings for how strong you want the wind. 

• Japanese: 首振り扇風機 (Kubifuri senpuuki)
• Pros: They are cost-effective, blow air directly where you want it and can be used as an air conditioner substitute on less sweltering days. 
• Cons: They aren’t as strong as an AC, can be noisy and they need frequent cleaning as dust and allergens can get trapped inside. 

Ceiling Fan

If your home has a ceiling fan or a compatible fixture, this rotating option can help circulate the air in your room.

• Japanese: 天井扇風機 (Tenjyou senpuuki); Ceiling fan (shiiringu fan)
• Pros: They are cost-effective, energy-efficient and they can move air around your apartment. 
• Cons: They aren’t at all as powerful as an air conditioner and they can be noisy. 

Misting Fan

Misting fans spray a light mist of water into their surroundings to cool the area. 

• Japanese: ミストファン (misuto fan); ミスト扇風機 (misuto senpuuki)
• Pros: They are cost-effective and more cooling than a regular fan. There are also portable versions for you to take with you on the go. 
• Cons: Extended use indoors and especially in small spaces can make your home too humid, potentially causing mold. You also have to refill the water tank yourself. 

Air Circulator

Air circulators rotate air throughout a space rather than blowing it straight like a fan, making them ideal partners for an air conditioner. 

• Japanese: circulator (saakyureetaa); 空気循環器 (kuuki jyunkan-ki)
• Pros: They make your air conditioner more efficient by circulating the cooled air throughout your home, leading to energy and cost savings. They are also great for drying clothes inside during the rainy season.
• Cons: They can move pollen and dust around the home, especially if they are being used while the window is open. 

Portable or Spot Coolers

Portable coolers are essentially mini or personal air conditioners that can be used separately from a main unit. 

• Japanese: portable cooler (pooraburu kuuraa); 移動式クーラー (idoushiki kuuraa)
• Pros: They are cost-effective compared to a main unit that needs to be installed, and you can move them from room to room with you. They can also come in handy if you have to quickly cool a small space that is far from the air conditioner. 
• Cons: They will increase your electricity bill, they can be noisy and their ability to cool a space is not comparable to a main air conditioning unit. 

Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers reduce humidity by pulling moisture out of the air.    

• Japanese: 除湿器 (jyoshitsu-ki)
• Pros: They keep the room cooler, improve air quality and fight back mold. They can also help dry clothes indoors. 
• Cons: They have a tank that you have to empty which is stored inside the dehumidifier that fills with water absorbed from the air. 

Ice Makers

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