This article discusses the annual summer tradition in Japan of cooling watermelons in rivers and eating them. It also highlights some essential precautions that need to be taken in order to avoid possible safety issues, as this tradition is not without potential hazards.

Cooling and eating watermelons in rivers is a beloved summer tradition in Japan. During hot summer days, families often head to the river with a watermelon to cool it naturally. The experience is more about the fun and excitement of the activity rather than just consuming the fruit. However, given issues such as potential water pollution and ensuring the watermelon does not drift away, there is always a need for care and attention during such excursions.

While the US and EU may not have the precise tradition of cooling watermelons in rivers, they do have equivalent outdoor summer activities. For instance, many Americans might have a BBQ or picnic near a river or lake during the summer. Similar precautions—like considering food safety and cleanliness of surroundings—are equally applicable.