Shaved Ice: Japan's Most Refreshing Summer Treat
2019.08.19 |
Do you dream of spending an evening at a Japanese summer festival, or an evening fireworks display? While you enjoy the evening festivities, what do you imagine nibbling on? Ask anyone in Japan this question, and they're sure to tell you “kakigori!” (かき氷), Japanese shaved ice! It's a staple among festival stalls around Japan every summer, but you can find some pretty interesting shaved ice year-round.
Kakigori, a Summer Snack
It's said that kakigori has been a popular snack in Japan since the Heian period, which was way back between 794 and 1185. Supposedly it was popularized by royalty in Nara Prefecture, after a prince stumbled upon a local shop selling the dish.
Kakigori Comes in All Shapes and Sizes!
The most common shaved ice is the simplest variety: ice topped with fruity syrup, like strawberry or melon. In recent years, however, extra fancy and especially cute kakigori has been on the rise in Japan!
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- This being Japan, of course things have to get cute. This teddy bear kakigori can be found in Kagoshima, deep in southern Japan.
Whether you enjoy a little cup of kakigori at a summer festival, or you find some at a specialty shaved ice establishment, don't miss the chance to try some shaved ice next time you're in Japan!
Of course, if you want to try a Japanese specialty that's a little more filling, you could always look for Saitama's unagi kabayaki eel, or firefly squid hot pot in Toyama! Or, when you want a Japanese sweet treat that you can bring home to your friends, grab some retro Japanese Fujiya candy.
Of course, if you want to try a Japanese specialty that's a little more filling, you could always look for Saitama's unagi kabayaki eel, or firefly squid hot pot in Toyama! Or, when you want a Japanese sweet treat that you can bring home to your friends, grab some retro Japanese Fujiya candy.
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