The Japanese have developed remarkable heat tolerance and a unique fashion sense to survive the hot summer months. From their diet of light fish and vegetables, to cooling techniques such as fans, cold showers, wet towels, and yukata (lightweight cotton kimonos), the Japanese have adapted to beat the heat. Popular summer activities like hanabi (fireworks) and o-bon (a Buddhist festival honoring ancestors) offer relief from the heat while public cooling areas such as air-conditioned buses or malls provide an escape for those looking for some respite. To top it off, popular summer drinks like beer, amazake (sweet rice drink), mizuwari (shochu mixed with water), umeshu (plum wine), kakigori (shaved ice topped with syrup) , somenzuke (cold noodles served with vinegar sauce) are sure to help you beat the heat!