Kirin Launches Mobile 'Heat Relief' Kitchen in Fuchu City
Last year, Fuchu City recorded temperatures exceeding 40°C, and in response, Kirin Beverage Company has announced the launch of a mobile kitchen called the "Heat Relief Kitchen Car." This initiative will take place over two days, June 26th and 27th, providing refreshing beverages for free to help combat heatstroke during the sweltering summer days.
The event is part of a new heatstroke prevention campaign that aims to educate residents about the risks associated with extreme heat, especially in areas recorded to have high temperatures. The mobile kitchen will be stationed at the "Hikari to Kaze no Hiroba" in front of Fuchu Station, where visitors can receive a selection of products from the "Kirin Sekai no Kitchen kara" lineup. A total of 2,400 drinks, including the notable "Kirin Sekai no Kitchen kara SorutyuraiChi," will be distributed during this period.
This initiative is organized in collaboration with the "Heatstroke Prevention Communication Project," supported by various special companies participating in the program. The mobile kitchen intends to visit different locations such as schools, construction sites, and community events to distribute heatstroke prevention products, offering essential tips and advice on managing the heat effectively.
Event Details:
- - Location: Hikari to Kaze no Hiroba, 1-41-1 Miyamachi, Fuchu City, Tokyo
- - Dates: June 26th (Friday) & June 27th (Saturday), 2026
- - Distribution Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Visitors will be able to receive one of the following beverages:
- - Kirin Sekai no Kitchen kara SorutyuraiChi (500ml PET)
- - Kirin Sekai no Kitchen kara Lime Salt (500ml PET)
- - Kirin Sekai no Kitchen kara SorutyuraiChi Soda, newly launched on June 23rd (500ml PET)
All drinks will be served chilled and are limited to one bottle per person while supplies last. Please be advised that the event may be canceled due to heavy rain or severe weather conditions.
Kirin’s Ongoing Heatstroke Outreach Initiatives
Kirin has been active in heatstroke prevention since the launch of the "Kirin Sekai no Kitchen kara SorutyuraiChi" in 2011. The company has progressively been advocating for heatstroke knowledge, encouraging its employees to acquire the "Heatstroke Prevention Advisor" certification since 2019. This year, 86 certified employees are conducting awareness seminars across the country.
Kirin collaborates with local municipalities to install posters in vending machines and works alongside local fire departments to raise awareness about heatstroke prevention behaviors. As a recognition of these initiatives, Kirin was awarded the "Hitoyasumi Award 2026" in a category focused on community cooling shelters and heatstroke prevention efforts, marking the ninth consecutive year of receiving this honor.
Continuing Support for Cooling Shelters
In an ongoing commitment of three years towards community wellness, Kirin is collaborating with the Heatstroke Prevention Communication Project to promote community cooling shelters. Selected municipalities are encouraged to engage in awareness activities during hot weather and receive donations of Kirin Sekai no Kitchen kara SorutyuraiChi (500ml PET).
Understanding Cooling Shelters
Under the updated Climate Change Adaptation Law that came into effect on April 1, 2024, municipalities should designate facilities like community centers and libraries as cooling shelters to support residents during heat alerts. These facilities must meet specific criteria to ensure the safety and comfort of the public.
Collaboration with the Heatstroke Prevention Project
Established in 2011, the Heatstroke Prevention Communication Project, led by the Japan Design Association, aims to unite various stakeholders, including local governments and businesses, in the fight to eliminate heatstroke deaths. Kirin has actively participated in this project since 2015, aligning with its goals of public engagement and community education.
Promoting 'Hitoyasumi Spots' in Communities
Starting from the inception of the project, initiatives have focused on incentivizing the establishment of "Hitoyasumi Spots"—safe havens where citizens can escape the heat. As the project has evolved, it now seeks to foster community-based cooling shelters, enhancing collaboration with local governments to proactively reduce heatstroke incidents.
About Kirin's Beverage Lineup
The flagship beverage, Kirin Sekai no Kitchen kara SorutyuraiChi, has gained considerable popularity since its 2011 launch, continuously promoting hydration and the essence of summer enjoyment. The recent addition of limited edition flavors, such as Kirin Sekai no Kitchen kara Lime Salt, has seen a rise in demand, adding diverse offerings to Kirin's beverage portfolio during the hot months.
Overall, Kirin's commitment to heatstroke prevention is indicative not just of a corporate responsibility but a holistic approach to community health and safety, aiming to facilitate safe interactions in the increasingly intense summer climate.