Japan and China adopt innovative cooling accessories to beat summer heat

In Japan, ties are being transformed into cooling accessories with gel inserts or small cold packs, while ice rings and damp Tenugui towels are popular for neck‑level cooling. Hand‑held and folding fans are also routinely worn around the neck or wrist. In China, sun‑protective face masks have evolved from the novelty "facekini"—a hood that leaves only the eyes, nose and mouth exposed—to everyday lightweight UV‑blocking masks made from breathable "ice silk" fabric (UPF 50+). Large straw hats combined with moistened scarves are common, and warm or lukewarm drinks are favoured based on traditional medicinal beliefs.

These strategies rely on evaporative cooling, shade, and thermal mass, reflecting cultural approaches to coping with increasingly hot summers across Asia.