In Japan the tradition of pouring water in front of one's home or shop during the hot summer days is dating back a long time. The main purpose is to cool down the overall temperature of the area as well as bind dust and provide a generally pleasant atmosphere. Because using tap water would be considered a waste it should be done with water left over from rain or air conditioners. This has become a public event in many occasions as salary men in Roppongi or shop owners in Asakasa gather on a set date to pour water over walkways and asphalt. Of course Akihabara can't miss out on a reason to gather for some otaku fun.

For the fifth time the Uchimisukko will be held in Akiba and again the event is expanding in size compared to its precedents. The first Uchimizukko was a tiny event at a small park in Akihabara but after growing popularity was moved in front on the UDX building next to the station. This years event will be spread out across 3 different places meaning fans of cosplayers and maids will have to decide on one or prepare to move around a lot as there will be three mascot characters aptly named 2°C Sisters because the temperature is said the be lowered by 2°C on average. As this is Akiba after all they will be represented in person by gravure idols.

For the first time the event will start out with a praying ceremony at Kanda Shrine after which the trek of maids and cosplayers will spread out to their respective spots. The oldest one (Kurumi Saki) will host the event at the JR station, the second one (Hatsune Rion) in front of the Fuji Soft building and the youngest sister (Mizuno Mahiru) will be in front of Yodobashi Camera. They will hold a contest to see who can create the biggest decline in temperature but nevertheless it is going to be hot for sure.

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Akiba Keizai Shimbun

Mission Uchimizu