Extreme heat surpassing body temperature continues across various regions this summer. Today also saw scorching temperatures in many areas.

“It’s just before 11 AM in Nagoya’s Sakae district. The thermometer in my hand shows 42.4°C. While there’s a slight breeze, the humidity makes it feel like sweat is slowly welling up from deep within the body.”

People on the street are dealing with the intense heat that has lasted for days…

“It’s dangerously hot, I feel like I might collapse.”
“It’s quite hot. Sometimes I finish all the tea in my water bottle.”
“It’s impossible without carrying a fan.”
“I’m applying a lot of children’s sunscreen.”
“Since I sweat more than others, I walk while hydrating every ten minutes or so.”

Everyone has had enough of this summer’s intense heat…
So, we visited an ice wholesaler.

The visit was to “Tsukamoto Ice Wholesaler,” a company with about 90 years of history located in Tempaku Ward. They supply ice to local restaurants, schools, and others. The representative, Mr. Tsukamoto, is the third generation. In addition to ice and dry ice, the storefront also sells shaved ice.

Sakae district

The Sakae district is a vibrant commercial and entertainment hub in the heart of Nagoya, Japan. Historically, it was a merchant town during the Edo period, but it was heavily damaged during World War II. It was completely rebuilt post-war into the modern, neon-lit center of shopping and nightlife it is today.

Tsukamoto Ice Wholesaler

The Tsukamoto Ice Wholesaler is a historic business in Tokyo, Japan, that has been producing and selling natural ice blocks since the Meiji era (late 19th century). It is one of the last remaining establishments of its kind, preserving the traditional methods of harvesting ice from nearby mountain lakes. The site serves as a living museum to a pre-refrigeration industry and a cherished local cultural landmark.