One of the must-buy items for visitors to Japan is the Netsusama Sheet—a simple, blue cooling gel sheet you’ll often see lining the shelves of Japanese pharmacies. Despite its modest appearance, this unassuming product has gained a cult following, with many travelers stocking up in bulk and packing their suitcases with it. Among the various options, Kobayashi Pharmaceutical’s version stands out as the most recognized and widely recommended. On social media and through word of mouth, it has earned its place as a quintessential everyday item to purchase in Japan.
What makes this product so popular is its ease of use and immediate effectiveness. Just stick it on your forehead, neck, or underarm, and you’ll instantly feel a cooling sensation—no special tools or preparation needed. It adheres well, even while you sleep, and can be safely used by both children and adults. While commonly used to reduce fever, it’s also praised as a quick relief for summer heat, headaches, muscle aches, or even as a refreshing touch-up before reapplying makeup.
What sets Japanese cooling sheets apart is the thoughtful variety tailored to different needs and age groups. There are smaller, gentler versions for children, made with sensitive skin in mind. Adult versions are designed for longer-lasting cooling and stronger refreshing effects, allowing users to choose what best suits their needs. Many find this level of detail to be uniquely Japanese.
While cooling gel sheets exist in other countries too, Japanese ones are unmatched in quality and reliability. The comfort, moisture retention, adhesion, and subtle scent are all perfectly balanced—so much so that once people try them, they often find no substitute. The fact that they stay cool without needing refrigeration also makes them incredibly convenient for travel.
Behind the popularity of Netsusama Sheets among tourists lies more than just curiosity—it reflects differences in climate and daily lifestyle. For many international visitors, especially those coming during Japan’s sweltering summer months, the humidity and heat can feel far more intense than expected. As a result, travelers often carry these cooling sheets as a precaution against heat exhaustion. Once they experience how well it works during a day of sightseeing, they’re quick to pick up more.
Its appeal also comes from its affordability and compact size. Costing just a few hundred yen, the sheets are lightweight and easy to pack, making them a favorite as souvenirs or for sharing with friends and family. It’s a rare find that combines practicality with a sense of exclusivity—something uniquely Japanese, not readily available abroad.
In fact, some pharmacies have dedicated sections for Netsusama Sheets, often with multilingual explanations to cater to international customers. The high demand among tourists has encouraged Japanese retailers to adapt, ensuring that even first-time visitors can easily find and understand the product. For many, hunting for this cooling sheet has even become one of the highlights of exploring Japanese drugstores.
Though categorized as a pharmaceutical item, the Netsusama Sheet is anything but intimidating. Its intuitive design and reliable effectiveness have won over countless users. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden fever, physical fatigue, or simply want to unwind at your hotel after a long day, this little sheet delivers instant comfort and peace of mind.
Within each sheet is a reflection of Japanese craftsmanship and attention to detail. It’s easy to see why so many travelers regret not buying more after their first visit. On your next trip to Japan, this is one everyday essential you’ll want to toss into your basket without hesitation—a quiet yet brilliant example of how Japanese products seamlessly blend into daily life.