In pictures: Japan sizzles

A zoo in southern Japan has been making sure its polar bears have enough ice to keep cool.

Young people are enjoying the summer holidays, but Tokyo's businessmen are not so lucky.

But the economy is getting a boost, with soaring demand for air conditioners, cold drinks and fans.

This woman has gone to great lengths to protect her skin from the sun's rays.

Japan is not the only place feeling the heat. In Hong Kong there was a warning for people to guard against heatstroke.