During summer, Kyoto becomes really hot and humid. One of the best ways to escape the heat and relax is to eat kakigoori (shaved ice). There are many different types of kakigoori available in Kyoto. Flavors range from traditional, like green tea and brown sugar, to innovative, featuring savory ingredients like miso. Let’s look at five places you must visit to try kakigoori in Kyoto!
Gion Koishi
Gion Koishi is located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto and is one of the most popular places to try traditional Japanese sweets. The shop has been in business for around 70 years, originally an ame-ya (candy shop). The shop now has a cafe serving sweets such as warabimochi and parfaits. During summer, they offer different types of shaved ice. In particular, their wagamamagori option is popular with locals and tourists alike.
In Japanese, ‘wagamama’ means selfish; however, in the context of food in modern times, it can also mean spoiling or treating yourself! The wagamamagori contains different textures and flavors that will satisfy any sweet cravings. The shaved ice features kanten (agar) jelly cubes, mochi, and red bean paste. On top of the ice, there is also candied Japanese chestnut, and you can choose from Uji green tea syrup or kokuto (brown sugar from Okinawa) syrup.
BANKS (Shimogyo)
Banks is located in the Shimoyo district of Kyoto, slightly west of the city center. This establishment focuses on alcohol and shaved ice. While many sweet shops offer traditional shaved ice options, Banks offers some creative options that change depending on the season. The owner of Banks creates his shaved ice dishes with the purpose of “showing Japanese cuisine through shaved ice,” so you’ll definitely come across some flavors you won’t see anywhere else!
The chef incorporates common Japanese ingredients such as soy sauce and miso into his kakigoori, with many of the shaved ice dishes savory! One example of a dish with wow-d customers is the nikujaga (Japanese meat and potato stew) kakigoori. The shaved ice is topped with minced meat. Bonito oil and potatoes mixed with onions. It tastes exactly like a mini stew with an ice-y twist!
PAGE ONE
Page One is located inside a renovated machi-ya in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto. The shop is produced by the renowned shaved ice shop Morita Himuro Honten, which has been in business for almost 140 years! Some sources claim this shop is the oldest ice shop in Kyoto. While the shop name differs, the charm of the shaved ice at Page One remains the same. In addition to the ice, Page One pays attention to the vessels in which the ice is served.
The staff serves each kakigoori in a bowl made of hand-carved ice, enhancing the unique experience of visiting this establishment! Many patrons favor the nama-shibori ichigo kakigoori (strawberry shaved ice topped with freshly squeezed strawberry) as one of the most popular options at this eatery. As the name suggests, the shaved ice features fresh strawberries, giving it a distinct, vivid red color. The shaved ice also comes with condensed milk, which you can put on top to give it extra sweetness.
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Kyogori Yukimi-an
Kyogori Yukimi-an is located near Nijo Castle. The owners operate this store as a sister location to the famous shaved ice shop Yukiusagi in Tokyo. Customers know the establishment for its photogenic shaved ice dishes, which taste as good as they look. The staff makes the shaved ice from high-quality natural water, which melts in your mouth like soft snow!
The menu at Kyogori Yukimi-an changes per season, but the most popular option is the ripe mango and custard kakigoori during summer. In addition to using mango as a topping, the staff also incorporates it inside the shaved ice, creating a fun eating experience! There are also other fruity options, including pineapple and strawberry.
Saruya
Saruya is located on the premises of Shimogamo Shrine. In the past, Shimogamo Shrine had a unique “ice house” that stored ice from the winter. The ice was then offered to the imperial court to pray for good health and purification. Nowadays, shaved ice is available to everyone, and Saraya serves it to help people cool off during hot and humid summer days.
Saruya serves three kakigoori options, the most popular green tea with azuki red beans. The green tea uses fragrant Uji tea leaves, and the red beans are locally grown Tanba Dainagon azuki beans. In addition to kakigori, you can enjoy other traditional sweets and teas.
Why should I try these kakigoori spots in Kyoto?
Kyoto’s kakigoori spots offer a refreshing escape from the summer heat with unique and delicious shaved ice treats. If you’re seeking traditional flavors, visit Gion Koishi and Saru-ya. If you want unique, savory kakigoori you won’t find anywhere else in Japan, then you’ll love Banks. Page One is an excellent choice if you love strawberry flavors, and Kyogori Yukimi-an offers a range of instagrammable seasonal kakigoori dishes that taste amazing! Whether you’re looking for traditional or modern kakigoori, visiting these five locations will cool you down and satisfy you. Which kakigoori do you want to try, and why? Let us know in the comments below!
