Japan adopts ‘human refrigerators’ to combat extreme heat

As Japan faces increasingly extreme heatwaves, companies are adopting novel cooling solutions like the ‘Do Hiemon Box’. This phonebooth-sized device, distributed by Trusco Nakayama, functions as a ‘human refrigerator’ by circulating chilled air at approximately 5°C to rapidly cool workers.

Despite a high price tag of 1.5 million yen (roughly $9,400), the device has seen significant demand, with over 300 units sold since April. It is primarily being utilized in high-risk environments such as construction sites, factories, and warehouses to prevent heatstroke. Future applications may include golf courses and baseball stadiums.

The adoption of such technology follows a record-breaking summer in 2025 and a rise in temperatures reaching 40°C, which led the Japan Meteorological Agency to introduce the term ‘kokushobi’ (cruelly hot day). With heat-related medical emergencies affecting tens of thousands and rising mortality rates, businesses are facing stricter legal requirements to provide adequate cooling and rest areas for employees.