Japan unveils human refrigerator to fight deadly summer heat
ByJoy KiginandTatum Fry
August 27, 2026Updated: August 27, 2026, 7:27 am EDTPublished: August 26, 2026, 11:52 am EDT

In Osaka, Japan, a wholesaler has installed a phone booth-sized "human refrigerator" that blasts chilled air to cool overheated warehouse workers in minutes. The Do Hiemon Box, developed by Trusco Nakayama, chills air to 41 degrees Fahrenheit and is designed to prevent heatstroke during Japan's dangerous summer heat. The company says it's already fielding interest from golf courses, music festivals and train stations looking to keep visitors safe as temperatures climb.

Loading comments...