Japan’s ‘Human Fridge’ Units Target Rising Heatstroke

Sun Sep 06 2026 03:52:51 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A new cooling box called Do Hiemon is being sold to businesses amid record summer heat, costing 1.5 million yen per unit.

In response to record‑setting summer temperatures, Japan is introducing the Do Hiemon cooling box—an appliance designed like a freezer vending machine that sells to businesses for 1.5 million yen. After more than 53,000 heat‑stroke cases in the past two months, the unit aims to create a refrigerated environment for employees and the public. It has sparked debate among business owners, public‑health experts, and environmentalists about its cost, effectiveness, and ecological impact.

Japan’s ‘Human Fridge’ Units Target Rising Heatstroke

Japan is facing its worst summer heat on record. Since the beginning of the season, public‑health authorities have treated more than 53,000 people for heat‑stroke, with 79 fatalities reported to date.

The government‑backed company, Do Hiemon, has rolled out a cooling box that resembles a freezer vending machine. Designed to create a chilled zone in public spaces and commercial premises, the unit costs 1.5 million yen (about US$9,400) per unit. CEO Testsuya Nakayama said the product was inspired by the infrastructure of freezer‑sharing machines used in convenience stores.

Business perspective: Small retailers, offices and restaurants are among the first to adopt the units, hoping to keep staff and customers comfortable and reduce heat‑related breaks. “We’re paying a premium, but it’s worth it if it keeps our team productive,” said a local café owner.

Public‑health angle: Health officials acknowledge the device’s potential to lower indoor temperatures but caution that without proper ventilation, it may not fully prevent heat‑stroke risks. One epidemiologist noted the need for complementary measures such as fan‑circulation and hydration stations.

Environmental impact: Energy consumption of the Do Hiemon units has raised questions about carbon footprints. Critics argue that, unless powered by renewable sources, the widespread deployment could offset climate‑change benefits.

Tokyo correspondent Kurumi Mori tested the unit in a public mall and reported a noticeably cooler, almost break‑freezone experience, though she said the ambient temperature could still push peak limits in the hours before sunset.