Cool to Stay Cool: Japan’s ‘Human Fridge’ Saves Lives in Heatwaves

Sun Sep 06 2026 13:47:15 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Japan’s new ‘human fridge’, a portable cooling box costing ~1.5m¥, helps businesses beat heatwaves after 53k cases in two months.

Heatwaves in Japan have led to over 53,000 heatstroke cases and 79 deaths in just two months. To combat the extreme temperatures, Japan launched the Do Hiemon – the ‘Cooling Box’ that looks like a vending machine. The unit, priced at around 1.5 million yen, has been deployed in public spaces and sold to businesses. BBC’s Tokyo correspondent tried the device, showcasing its cooling power. The Do Hiemon offers a fresh way to keep people safe and comfortable during peak heat.

Cool to Stay Cool: Japan’s ‘Human Fridge’ Saves Lives in Heatwaves

Japan is facing record‑setting summer heat, with more than 53,000 people treated for heatstroke and 79 deaths in the past two months.

Responding to the crisis, the Do Hiemon – loosely translated as “Cooling Box” – has rolled out across public spaces and is now available for purchase by businesses. The unit costs roughly 1.5 million yen ($9,407, £6,973) and features a design inspired by freezer vending machines.

BBC’s Tokyo correspondent Kurumi Mori tested the device in person, demonstrating its ability to provide rapid cooling relief.