As temperatures soar and summers become increasingly unbearable across Asia, a unique invention from Japan is gaining popularity for keeping people cool and safe in the scorching heat.

Introducing 'the de rigueur' jacket, equipped with built-in electric fans that circulate air around the wearer, providing a refreshing breeze and helping to control humidity levels. This innovative jacket has become a hit in Japan, with many people turning to it as a solution to combat rising temperatures.

The mastermind behind this cooling garment is engineer Hiroshi Ishigaya, who conceptualized the idea during a trip to Southeast Asia in 1988 after retiring from Sony. Anticipating the widespread use of air conditioning in new buildings and the exacerbation of global warming, Ishigaya sought an alternative solution to keep people cool.

In 2004, Ishigaya launched the Fan Jacket, later known as the 'Air Conditioned Cloth,' despite initial skepticism and some technical glitches. However, by 2009, the jacket began gaining popularity, prompting various companies to invest in its production.

One such company is the electric appliance manufacturer Makita, which introduced its version of the Fan Jacket in 2015. Daisuke Seki, assistant manager at Makita, noted a growing demand for such products as temperatures continue to rise.

While specific sales data remains undisclosed, the demand for fan jackets has surged in recent years, with several models available in the market. The most powerful battery model can provide continuous airflow for up to 60 hours, catering to varying needs and preferences.

With an ample supply of fan jackets currently available in the market, these cooling innovations from Japan are among the top 100 products sought after by consumers looking to beat the heat with style and functionality. As such, fan jackets represent just one of several innovative solutions emerging from Japan to address the challenges posed by rising temperatures.