A Japanese sweets you must try during the summer is ‘kakigori.’ It’s a refreshing shaved ice treat served with syrups like strawberry, melon, or matcha, perfect for cooling down in the hot summer weather.
In recent years, more luxurious versions have appeared, where fresh fruit purees replace the traditional syrups, offering a richer and more refined taste.
Some shops even take pride in the quality of the ice, using ‘natural ice’ that freezes naturally during the winter.
Be aware that at specialty shops, you may find long lines during peak seasons.
Across Japan, there are many specialty kakigori shops. My top recommendation right now is ‘Himitsu-do,’ located in Yanaka(Sendagi), Taito-ward, Tokyo.
- Shaved Ice specialty shop
- A popular store Expect long lines of customers
- Cash only.
Their base flavors include strawberry, peach, kiwi, melon, mango, and royal milk tea. Toppings range from cream cheese and mascarpone to whipped cream and yogurt.
My personal favorite is ‘Uji-Kintoki’ with added milk. ‘Uji’ refers to the matcha-growing region of Kyoto, meaning matcha here, and ‘Kintoki’ refers to sweet red bean paste, a classic Japanese dessert ingredient.
For those with a sweet tooth, you can add ‘kuromitsu’ (black sugar syrup) or regular sugar syrup. Of course, the fruit-based kakigori options are also amazing!
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