th3dogcow

I don’t disagree that people who are overweight will feel hotter. The rainy season makes it feel hotter than just the temperature here, too. Buildings here are probably more poorly insulated, too.

Every home I have visited in Japan over the past two decades has had A/C units. You may be right that in regions where it is very cold an A/C unit may not be necessary. However, as heat pumps are one of if not the most energy efficient ways to not only cool but also heat a home, I wouldn’t be surprised to find them even in colder regions.

Add on the fact that houses in Japan are generally considered a depreciating asset, so until recently demolitions and new construction were favored over renovations, I stand by my first statement.

Additionally, every place I have ever rented has come with at least one A/C unit, and additional holes are predrilled in other rooms so that split systems can be installed.

Conversely, AC is much less common in places like France and Japan, and it’s not just because they’re too cheap.

I assure you that practically every household in Japan has an air conditioner these days. Maybe not some decades ago but things have changed, including the climate. And companies are legally required to keep offices at no higher than 28°C, too.