This smart pre-air conditioner invention helps Japanese fight the unbearable heat in the cities, such as Tokyo. At specific times when the heat is the highest, everyone is organized to come out with a bucket of water and pour it on the pavement. The trick is to make as many people as possible do it simultaneously around the city, since only in that way this may work. The phenomenon is similar to that applied in refrigerators: the liquids trap heat as they turn into gas.
Mission Uchimizu happens all around Japan, not only in Tokyo. Generally, around 70% of Japanese people are aware of the campaign. According to traditions uchimizu is done whilst wearing yukata robe and using a bamboo bowl. Uchimizu is part of daily summer routine—they are sprinkling water at the entrance of their homes, outside shops or other businesses. It is viewed as a courteous act of respect towards neighbours and Japanese traditions.
Practical info
What is the purpose of Mission Uchimizu?
Mission Uchimizu is a traditional Japanese practice to reduce unbearable summer heat by pouring water on streets using a bamboo bowl. It helps to trap liquid that turns into gas, similar to refrigerants. Coordinated pouring is key to making this practice successful. It signifies a courteous and respectful act towards neighbors and Japanese traditions. Show more
When should tourists visit Tokyo to see this phenomenon?
June to August is the ideal time for tourists to witness the Mission Uchimizu phenomenon in Tokyo, due to the unbearable heat in the city. The practice aims to reduce heat, and it is carried out city-wide within a specified period. This summer practice helps bring the locals together in a shared goal that supports each other and reinforces traditional values. Show more
Where else can someone observe Mission Uchimizu?
Mission Uchimizu is a nationwide summer ritual in Japan; the coordinated campaign is known and carried out by many citizens. It involves pouring water at the entrance of homes, shops, and on streets, where the summer heat is unbearable to lessen the effects. It is a community effort to show respect towards neighbors and common traditions and promote sustainability by using eco-friendly and natural materials like bamboo bowls. Show more
What is the significance of using a bamboo bowl and wearing a yukata robe during Uchimizu?
During Uchimizu, a traditional summer practice in Japan, people wear a lightweight yukata robe suitable for the hot, humid weather of summer and use bamboo bowls to pour water. This practice fosters eco-friendliness by saying no to plastics, encouraging the use of biodegradable and natural materials. It serves as a reminder of Japanese traditional culture and shows a sustainable way of living which is suitable for modern times. Show more
Is there any indoor activity associated with Uchimizu?
Uchimizu is primarily an outdoor activity to reduce summer heat outside homes, businesses, and shops, but some individuals pour water on indoor spaces like tiled floors and patios. However, outdoor Uchimizu tends to be more popular as compact Japanese homes cannot contain unbearable summer heat, which outdoor Uchimizu helps to alleviate. Outdoor Uchimizu adheres to traditional style and movements, involving the presentation of bamboo bowls and wearing yukata robes. Show more
