Air conditioning breakdown leaves customers at TOHO Oimachi cinema drenched in sweat
Opened on March 28, TOHO Cinemas Oimachi, a modern multi-purpose complex in Oimachi, Tokyo, stood out for being the chain’s first cinema in the Japanese capital to adopt Dolby Cinema® technology. However, just four months after its opening, the establishment faced an unexpected failure that caused great discomfort to its patrons.
The situation became even more critical due to the intense heat wave that hit the region, increasing the risk of health problems for those who remained in environments without adequate refrigeration.
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On August 2, reports on platform X, a Japanese social network, warned about air conditioning malfunctions in several rooms and in the lobby of TOHO Oimachi, describing the place as a real sauna. Clients confirmed the situation, with many saying they had received “apology tickets” after the sessions, without any prior warning about the air conditioning problem.
Public reviews on Google Maps also reflected discontent. Users left comments such as: “The cinema’s air conditioning is not working. I felt unwell after the session”, “I attended a late night session on August 1st, but it was very hot in both the theater and the cinema, which was uncomfortable” and “Everyone I passed was drenched in sweat”, demanding urgent improvements.
The ineffectiveness of the refrigeration system, combined with record high external temperatures, created a considerable risk of heatstroke for the public. Incidents involving climate control in cinemas are nothing new; in August the previous year, 109 Cinemas HAT Kobe also faced glitches, resulting in an official apology and offer of refunds for affected screenings.
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To understand the situation at the cinema, a request for information was made to TOHO Cinemas Co., Ltd. on August 3, which received no initial response. However, on the afternoon of August 4, the official website of TOHO Cinemas Oimachi published a statement titled “Warning about the air conditioning environment in the cinema”, addressing the incident.
In the text, the cinema clarified that “Currently, the external temperature is affecting the air conditioning system inside the cinema, and the air conditioning is not working properly in the lobby and in some cinema rooms.” The company also expressed its “sincere apology for the great inconvenience and inconvenience this is causing our customers.”
The statement also detailed that, on the night of August 3, emergency reinforcements were carried out in the system, resulting in an “improvement” in the building’s internal environment. The company concluded the note by stating that “We will continue to do our utmost to maintain an environment in which our customers can enjoy their experience, including the air conditioning system in all facilities, and to ensure the stable operation of equipment. We ask for your understanding and cooperation.”
With the vast program of films available, such as “Spider-Man: A New Day” and “Michael”, it is essential that not only TOHO Oimachi, but all of the network’s units in the country are fully prepared to provide a pleasant and safe experience for its visitors.
