How to survive the extremely hot summer in Japan? Many of you might be seeking tips to endure this situation. The higasa (sun umbrella) is gaining popularity for preventing heat stroke and UV rays. In this article, we highlight the effectiveness of sun umbrellas as a countermeasure against heat stroke, under the guidance of Dr. Meiko Ooi. We also introduce belongingJAPAN‘s recommended sun umbrellas to help you choose the right one for you.
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Table of Contents
Medical Advisor
If you are interested in other how to guide, you might find this article helpful.
Chapter 1: Higasa and Heat Stroke
Many people might be surprised to see someone using an umbrella even when it’s not raining. In Japan, umbrellas used to protect against UV rays and heat are called “日傘 / Higasa / ひがさ,” and they are commonly used from spring to summer. While they were mainly used by women in the past, more men are now using them for heat protection.
Before the end of the rainy season, the Ministry of the Environment issues “Special Heat Stroke Alerts” and “Heat Stroke Alerts” almost daily across Japan. These alerts aim to communicate the dangers of heat stroke and encourage people to take preventive measures. The alert levels vary based on the Heat Stress Index (WBGT: Wet Bulb Globe Temperature), which is an index to prevent heat stroke, estimated from temperature, humidity, solar radiation, and other factors.
To check the heat stroke alerts, please click here.
| English | Japanese | Definition |
|---|---|---|
|
Special Heat Stroke Alert
|
熱中症特別警戒アラート
|
The maximum heat stress index (WBGT) is 35 (predicted value) |
|
Heat Stroke Alert
|
熱中症警戒アラート |
The maximum heat stress index (WBGT) is 33 (predicted value) |
Chapter 2: Why Higasa Are Good for "Heat Protection"?
How effective are sun umbrellas? According to an experiment conducted by the Ministry of the Environment, using a sun umbrella can reduce sweat production by 17%. In this experiment, six men walked for 15 minutes in 30°C (86°F) and 50% humidity while their sweat and heat stress were measured. The participants were divided into two groups: one group wore only hats, while the other used sun umbrellas that blocked over 99% of sunlight. The results showed that those using sun umbrellas produced about 17% less sweat.
Our bodies sweat to cool down under strong sunlight, but excessive sweating can reduce blood volume and affect overall health since sweat is produced from blood. Sun umbrellas provide larger shade than hats and block direct sunlight, helping to alleviate heat.
Source: Ministry of the Environment
Chapter 3: Why Higasa Are Good for "UV Protection"?
Beyond heat stroke, another concern is the impact of UV rays on the skin. Excessive exposure to UV rays can lead to more wrinkles and dark spots, and it has also been linked to skin cancer and cataracts. In Japan, about 70% to 80% of annual UV exposure occurs from April to September. Therefore, it is recommended to use UV-blocking sun umbrellas for daily protection.
Source: Ministry of the Environment
Chapter 4: How to choose Higasa for summer in Japan?
So, what kind of sun umbrella should you choose? Here are three key points to consider when selecting a sun umbrella.
Choosing Higasa: "Light and Heat Blocking"
The higher the light-blocking rate, the better it can block light. In Japan, light-blocking rates are classified as follows:
- 1st Grade: 99.99% or higher / 1級：遮光率99.99％以上
- 2nd Grade: 99.80% to 99.99% / 2級：遮光率99.80％以上～99.99％未満
Some products are labeled as “完全遮光 / completely light-blocking” or “遮光率100% / 100% light-blocking,” but these labels are not standardized. It’s recommended to verify the claims of such products before purchasing.
Additionally, products that can block heat from the sun will have a “heat-blocking effect / 遮熱効果” label.
| English | Japanese | Definition |
|---|---|---|
|
Shading rate
|
遮光率 |
shakō-ritsu
|
|
Heat shielding effect
|
遮熱効果 |
shanetsu-kouka
|
Choosing Higasa: "UV Protection Rate"
The higher the UV protection rate, the better the umbrella can block UV rays. This is typically displayed as “UV protection rate 90% / 紫外線遮蔽率90%” or “UV cut rate 99% / UVカット率99%”. However, even with a high UV protection rate, a sun umbrella alone cannot completely block UV rays. It is recommended to also use sunscreen for additional protection.
Choosing Higasa: "Size and Functionality"
If you want to carry your umbrella in your bag, a lightweight and foldable type is recommended. For use during the rainy season, a sun and rain umbrella might be more convenient. If you have a lot of items to carry or need to use the umbrella while holding a child, an umbrella with an automatic open-and-close function could be useful.
Look for higasa with high light and heat blocking rates, UV protection, and features that match your specific needs.
Chapter 5: Recommended Product from belongingJAPAN
Based on positive reviews on Amazon and other platforms, here is a highly-rated option for your sun umbrella needs:
1. mont-bell ｜Sun Block Umbrella
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
|
Light Blocking Rate /
遮光率
|
Not specified |
|
Heat Blocking Effect / 遮熱効果
|
✔️ |
|
UV Protection Rate / UVカット率 |
99.7%
|
|
Size |
Diameter 98 cm / Ribs Length 55 cm (Folded Height: 27 cm) |
|
Weight |
200g |
|
Sun and Rain Compatible |
✔️ |
Recommended for Those Who Prioritize Eye Comfort in Bright Conditions:
This functional umbrella from an outdoor brand features a silver coating that reflects sunlight and a black inner layer that absorbs light, improving visibility. With a high UV protection rate of 99.7%, it’s well-suited for intense summer heat in japan. Positive reviews highlight its effectiveness in light and heat blocking. Some concerns include its silver color, which may not suit everyone’s taste, and the need to bend each of the 8 carbon fiber reinforced ribs individually when folding it, which some find inconvenient.
At just 200g, this ultra-light umbrella is ideal for daily use. It also has a durable water-repellent coating, making it suitable for both heat protection and sudden rain.
2. Wpc. ｜UV Protection Parasol tiny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
|
Light Blocking Rate /
遮光率
|
100% |
|
Heat Blocking Effect / 遮熱効果
|
✔️ |
|
UV Protection Rate / UVカット率 |
100%
|
|
Size |
Diameter 83 cm / Ribs Length 47 cm (Folded: Height 17 cm x Width 6 cm) |
|
Weight |
210g |
|
Sun and Rain Compatible |
✔️ |
Recommended for Those Seeking a Sun Umbrella That Matches Their Personal Preference:
This umbrella is ideal for daily use. It offers 100% light blocking and UV protection, along with a heat-blocking effect. Additionally, it features a water-repellent coating, making it suitable for rainy days. While many umbrellas come in limited colors, this series offers about 30 different colors, allowing you to choose according to your preference. The size, when folded, is 17 cm x 6 cm, and it weighs just around 200 g, making it both functional and compact enough to fit in your bag.
Positive reviews highlight its effectiveness in light and UV blocking. However, a common concern is that the storage bag is small, so the umbrella must be folded neatly to fit into it, which some find inconvenient.
3. Wpc. ｜UV Protection Parasol tiny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
|
Light Blocking Rate /
遮光率
|
100% |
|
Heat Blocking Effect / 遮熱効果
|
✔️ |
|
UV Protection Rate / UVカット率 |
100%
|
|
Size |
Diameter 88 cm / Ribs Length 50 cm (Folded: Height 40 cm x Width 8 cm) |
|
Weight |
250g |
|
Sun and Rain Compatible |
✔️ |
Recommended for Those Who Prioritize Complete Light Blocking:
This sun umbrella is designed to achieve complete light blocking with 100% light blocking rate, 100% UV protection, and UPF 50+. It also focuses on heat blocking, as demonstrated by an experiment conducted by the company. In temperatures around 35°C, the surface temperature at the top of the head reached 58.5°C without the umbrella, but with this umbrella, it was reduced to about 37.1°C. The umbrella is durable enough to maintain 100% light blocking even if it doesn’t tear or get damaged. It can be used as a full-length umbrella, but when folded, it shrinks to a compact size of 40 cm, making it a great choice for those who are considering both a full-length and a foldable umbrella for harsh summer heat and sun protection.
4. a.s.s.a｜Long Sunny and Rainy Umbrella
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
|
Light Blocking Rate /
遮光率
|
100% |
|
Heat Blocking Effect / 遮熱効果
|
✔️ |
|
UV Protection Rate / UVカット率 |
100%
|
|
Size |
Diameter 104 cm / Ribs Length 60 cm |
|
Weight |
460g |
|
Sun and Rain Compatible |
✔️ |
Recommended for Those Looking for a Larger Sun Umbrella:
This umbrella is ideal for those seeking a larger size, with a diameter of approximately 104 cm, providing ample coverage. It offers 100% light blocking and UV protection, and features a water-repellent fabric that prevents water droplets from sticking. Made from lightweight yet durable reinforced plastic, it is resistant to wind and less likely to break, making it reliable even during sudden downpours. Although you may not need to carry an umbrella every day, this larger sun umbrella is perfect for protecting yourself from intense sunlight and unpredictable weather during summer in Japan.
5. moonbat｜Maji de Karui Kasa slim50
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
|
Light Blocking Rate /
遮光率
|
100% |
|
Heat Blocking Effect / 遮熱効果
|
✔️ |
|
UV Protection Rate / UVカット率 |
99%
|
|
Size |
Diameter 82 cm / Ribs Length 50 cm |
|
Weight |
85g |
|
Sun and Rain Compatible |
✔️ |
Recommended for Those Who Prioritize Lightweight:
The moonbat Slim Series is perfect for those who prioritize lightness. This ultra-lightweight sun and rain umbrella weighs just about 85 g. It not only offers exceptional portability but also includes effective heat stroke prevention features, with 100% light blocking and 99% UV protection. With a UPF of 50+, it effectively blocks sunlight. Additionally, the company’s heat-blocking evaluation tests showed a temperature difference of -5.5°C on the face and -10°C on the top of the head. This umbrella is ideal for those who want to avoid adding bulk to their belongings and need an easy-to-carry option for daily use.
Chapter 6: Summary
To survive summer in Japan, using a higasa (sun umbrella) is highly recommended. It provides protection against UV rays and heat, especially from spring to summer. When choosing a higasa, consider its effectiveness in blocking light and heat, as well as its UV protection rate.
Hope this guide is useful for you to find an item suitable for you.
*When you purchase products mentioned below, a portion of the sales may be returned to belongingJAPAN through an affiliate program.
*The Doctor is not involved in the selection of products recommended by belongingJAPAN.
