Take measures against heatstroke!

This year, 2025, has been unusually hot in Japan.

We have been alive for almost 60 years, but this is the first time we have experienced such hot weather every day.

Not only in Kyoto but also in Hokkaido, the heat has exceeded body temperature every day, 

Depending on the day, temperatures frequently reach 38°C (100.4°F) or higher.

Summer in Kyoto is not only hot but also humid, so it feels as muggy as a sauna and can be very tiring.

and it is now common to see people curled up in the streets due to heatstroke.

So, as a countermeasure, please pay attention to the following.

1. Hydrate yourself frequently.

Sports drinks are best, but we recommend ones that do not contain much sugar.

In addition, tap water in Japan is safe to drink. Most public facilities such as parks and stations have drinking fountains.

And the water in the hand-washing basins in public toilets is also safe to drink. Make good use of them.

There is no need to go out of your way to buy mineral water.

2. Make good use of salt.

If you go to a drugstore, you can find candy and ramune that contain salt. If you feel hot, try to eat them.

3. Eat a good meal.

Don't skip breakfast or lunch but try to eat a balanced meal with as much protein as possible and carbohydrates before going out. This alone will make you feel much better.

4. Take a walk around the town in the early morning and in the evening. Do indoor sightseeing during the day.

There are many temples that can be visited from early in the morning. Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, which is close to our restaurant, can be visited from 6:00 in the morning, and we recommend it because you can enjoy the scenery very peacefully. Please note that temples have set visiting hours.

Shrines can be visited 24 hours a day in most cases. Many places are lit up at night, so we recommend visiting at night.

If your hotel is nearby, it is a good idea to return during the day and take a rest.

5. Prepare a long-sleeved shirt, a parasol, sunglasses, and a hat.

The heat and sunlight can often cause your skin to become too hot, which can make you tired. If possible, it is better to wear a long-sleeved shirt when traveling.

Heavy rainfall due to sudden weather changes is also a phenomenon that occurs in the Japanese summer.

It is convenient to have an umbrella that can be used in both rain and shine. They are sold at convenience stores, etc. Also, restaurants all have low air conditioning settings because food is prepared over fire. Skin that has been burned by the sun during the day can easily catch a cold when exposed to the breeze of an air conditioner. For this reason, it is useful to have a jacket on hand.

If you, your family, or friends end up curled up with heatstroke.

Please rely on a Japanese person nearby. They will probably contact an ambulance or, if you are at a station, a station staff member. If you are near a police box, I recommend going to the police box. They may also provide an interpreter.

There are many products sold in Japan that will help you cool down, so make use of them and have a good time.