Japan has countless products to make the summer heat more comfortable and help protect your body.
As you probably know, Japan is a nation of otaku—in the best possible sense. We love digging deeply into a subject and refining every last detail in the name of comfort. You’ll see that spirit in Japan’s incredible range of hot-weather goods.
You can find these items at Luvit Town Nakatsugawa, a shopping centre near The RYOKAN O (about a 9-minute walk from JR Nakatsugawa Station), as well as at convenience stores and drugstores. There’s a 100-yen shop inside the centre too.
You may need a little help from them to keep the heat from getting the better of you on the Nakasendo. Let’s take a look at a few.
1. Refreshing sheets to wipe away sweat!
These body wipes are soft, moist sheets that leave you feeling fresh after wiping away sweat.
Japan is a curious country where you’ll find a staggering variety of them: cooling types, beautifully scented types and completely fragrance-free types. There really is something for everyone. (※1)
They’re thin and light, so they might even make a fun little souvenir.
2. Drinks to quench your thirst
In hot countries, Japanese hydration drinks are sometimes even called “the water of life.” With a balance designed to be close to body fluids, quick absorption and a light sweetness, this drink is loved around the world. (※2)
Of course, you’ll find these at convenience stores and shopping centres too. If you’re carrying your own bottle, mixing a drink from powder can also be an affordable option.
Powdered versions aren’t as common overseas, but you’ll find them in all kinds of shops across Japan. Trying one may be a small but memorable part of your trip.
Nakatsugawa is a town with delicious water, so yours should taste good too! You can adjust the concentration to suit your taste. (※3)
If you’re setting out on a serious walk along the Nakasendo, you’ll want to prepare plenty to drink before you go!
3. Japan’s own “salt tablets”
Japan has salt candies, but these salt tablets are even easier to eat.
They have a mild salty taste, and some contain citric acid and potassium. They’re made to help replace salt lost through sweat. (※4)
You’ll also find cooling sheets to wrap around your neck, cooling sprays and plenty of other items. One of the good things about Nakatsugawa-juku is that there are several places where you can pick up these supplies.
This is also a town where you can gather the items that help protect your body in the heat.
Nakatsugawa-juku really is a base camp for the Nakasendo! When the heat is at its fiercest, this is the place to get yourself ready before you set out.
And don’t forget to take frequent breaks while you’re walking.
Work up a satisfying sweat and enjoy the journey! If you start to feel unwell, don’t push yourself—stop and rest somewhere cool.
Written by Nakatsugawa Yuruyuru News
Notes
Product names and trademarks belong to their respective owners. This article is not sponsored by or affiliated with the manufacturers.
※1 The cooling sensation of a body wipe isn’t the same as lowering your body temperature. Use wipes alongside other heat precautions.
※2 “The water of life” is a friendly expression for how welcome a drink can feel on a hot day, not a medical claim. The descriptions about a composition close to body fluids, quick absorption and international popularity are based on information published by Otsuka Pharmaceutical about the POCARI SWEAT product shown in the photo. They don’t apply to every hydration drink. (Sources: Otsuka Pharmaceutical, POCARI SWEAT Product Information; “From a Sweat-Inspired Drink to a Global Brand”)
※3 Powdered drinks have a specified amount of water and preparation method. When you make one, follow the package directions rather than adjusting it by taste.
※4 Follow the package directions and take salt tablets with water. They don’t replace hydration. If you have a medical condition or take medication, follow the advice of a medical professional. (Source: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Practical Heat Illness Guide for Workers)
※5 Before walking the Nakasendo on a hot day, check Japan’s official Heat Stress Index (WBGT) and Heat Stroke Alerts. On dangerously hot days, consider changing your timing or route, postponing the walk or cancelling it. Cooling goods don’t replace avoiding the hottest hours, drinking regularly and taking frequent breaks. (Sources: Ministry of the Environment, Government of Japan, Heat Illness Prevention Information; Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Heat Illness Prevention)
