#Japan #Shibuya #Daikin #Cool Down #Shibuya Green

Shibuya Cool Down Project: Reducing Urban Heat

The outdoor cooling initiative, part of the Shibuya Green Shift Project, has been launched to combat rising temperatures and promote carbon neutrality throughout Shibuya, Tokyo. Spearheaded by the Shibuya Future Design, in partnership with Daikin Industries and Osaka University, this project aims to create a more comfortable urban environment for the residents and visitors of Shibuya. The project incorporates feedback gained from discussions and has resulted in the implementation of cooling spots in eight key locations throughout the city, including Yoyogi Park and Shibuya Sakura Stage.

Overview of the Cooling Project

The core mission of the cooling project, running until the end of September 2025, is to establish effective cooling spots in Shibuya to mitigate heat stress. Key stakeholders such as Daikin, Tokyu Corporation, and Tokyu Land Corporation have united their efforts to design these cool zones. With installations at popular locations like Kitaya Park and other commercial spaces, this initiative not only aims to provide comfort but also serves as a platform for testing energy-saving solutions and measuring the heat index (WBGT) to prevent heatstroke.

At the cooling spots, Daikin's outdoor air conditioning units, characterized by their Outer Tower model, will be utilized along with mist systems to create a refreshing environment. The project also includes analyzing the behavior of users to find the most effective locations for these installations. Moreover, eco-initiatives like roof greening in urban buildings will be facilitated, working to combat the heat island phenomenon, thus reducing temperature elevations around air conditioning units.

Exploring Environmental Sustainability

This initiative actively pursues the dual goals of enhancing comfort while reducing energy consumption. Data retrieved from air conditioning systems will be analyzed to optimize their operation for energy efficiency. In addition, understanding how increased electricity consumption from the cooling spots can be offset will be crucial in maintaining sustainability in urban development. The project has already received recognition from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, being designated as part of their 2025 carbon-neutral and urban cooling initiative.

About Shibuya Green Shift Project

Initiated in June 2024, the Shibuya Green Shift Project embodies the vision of creating a carbon-neutral urban innovation community in Shibuya. In alignment with the city's ethos of being a “cutting-edge experimental metropolis,” this project aims to showcase viable ideas to address the challenges posed by global warming while enhancing urban greenery and livability. The key contributors, Daikin, Tokyu Corporation, and Tokyu Land Corporation, are instrumental in analyzing air conditioning data and deploying cooling spots throughout Shibuya. Historical insights from previous activities are applied to enhance the effectiveness of current implementations. More information can be found on their official website: Shibuya Green Shift Project

About Shibuya Future Design

Shibuya Future Design aims to foster diversity and inclusion by gathering ideas and talents from various residents, workers, students, and visitors in Shibuya. This collaborative organization focuses on designing solutions and opportunities for social issues through open innovation, promoting sustainable development within Shibuya as well as society at large. For additional insights into their initiatives, visit their website: Shibuya Future Design

What is SOCIAL INNOVATION WEEK?

SOCIAL INNOVATION WEEK (SIW) is an annual festival organized by Shibuya Future Design, promoting social and cultural design in Japan. The upcoming SIW2025 will take place from October 27, 2025, to November 3, 2025. This event serves as a meeting point for public, private, and academic sectors, fostering the creation of innovative social actions and cultural phenomena. For more information on the festival, check the official site: SOCIAL INNOVATION WEEK.