Top 11 essentials to survive the Tokyo summer

Summer rains: you can never predict 'em. To stay ready for whatever weather the city throws your way, keep an umbrella in your bag, as the nifty tool doubles as a parasol on sunny days. As an added bonus, this Protect U umbrella includes a UV filter, which claims to reduce your exposure to UV radiation over 99.9 percent. Around ¥2,180

Imabari towels are known for their high quality, boasting cotton that's soft yet durable while remaining incredibly absorbent. This conveniently sized 25cm version is great for carrying around, letting you dab away any perspiration that'll inevitably pop up while you're out and about in the sweltering summer heat. Around ¥700

Tokyo humidity is no joke. Help keep your clothing and other items from going mouldy with these bad boys. Simply remove the foil covering and place a container or two (or three) in your closet, cupboard or any space prone to mugginess. Each container produces a chemical reaction that removes moisture from the air and traps it in its lower compartment. When the container becomes full of liquid, swap it out for a fresh one. Around ¥250

This nifty neck ring contains a curious compound that begins to freeze when exposed to temperatures below 28C. Strangely, the frozen ring isn't ice-cold, but it's cool enough to offer some relief from the summer heat. For extra cooling action, pop it in the fridge (not the freezer) before use. Around ¥980

This re-chargeable electric fan comes with three power settings and offers up to two hours of continuous use. It also comes with a stand, so you can keep yourself cool whether sitting down or on the go. Around ¥980

If you prefer a somewhat more eco-friendly option to the battery-powered plastic fan above, old-school folding fans are your best bet. They need no power source, and since they often come decorated with all manner of gorgeous designs and motifs, they make great gifts for friends and loved ones. Around ¥110

Gokiburi – or 'cockroach' in English – is a word you may hear often this time of year, as an increase in the appearance of these pesky little creatures is as much a part of Tokyo summers as plum rain. Fortunately, these 'black caps' can help keep them at bay. Simply place a trap or two in the areas that cockroaches like to frequent to keep your place gokiburi-free. Around ¥968

For the creepy-crawlies in your home that cockroach traps can't handle, there's insecticide. From ants and wasps to silverfish and stink bugs, this spray gets rid of over a dozen varieties of pests for a bug-free abode. Around ¥1,078

If you find yourself in one of Tokyo's many gardens or parks, insects are pretty much inevitable. To help keep away the bites, the buzzing and general annoyance that bugs bring, simply spray a bit of this child-safe insect repellant on your skin for long-lasting protection. Its moisturising properties and light citrus scent are quite nice too. Around ¥602

Summer weather breeds a combination of sweat and humidity that leaves clothes and fabrics damp, which can lead to mildew and unpleasant odours. On those days when your items aren't smelling their best, with just a few spritzes of this deodorising spray – 15-20 to be precise – you'll get up to 24 hours of freshness. Around ¥547

By far the most important item to have on-hand for summer, water is the go-to beverage for maintaining proper hydration as temperatures rise. Make sure to carry a bottle with you whenever you're outside and take sips throughout the day to reduce the risk of heatstroke and other heat-related incidents. Around ¥130