In a surge potentially driven by this summer's relentless heatwave, badminton in Japan is enjoying a high in popularity. Locals have been flocking to badminton courts, indoor and out, seeking respite from the scorching temperatures. Whether this sports craze will continue beyond summer, or it's merely an ephemeral effect of the heatwave, remains to be seen.

As a country renowned for its love of sports, any significant shift in popular athletic pursuits in Japan is noteworthy. The nation is obsessed not just with triump but also with the process of mastery and dedication, which is evident in the culture's approach to sports. This sudden spike in interest for badminton thus holds a socio-cultural significance beyond the sport itself.

In comparison, the US and EU also see surges in certain sports during extreme weather. For instance, interest in indoor sports, or those that offer a respite from metaphorical heat (like swimming) can spike during heatwave spells. However, an array of options and overall sporting culture might result in a less pronounced mass migration to any one sport, unlike Japan.