5 kakigori shops to check out in Tokyo

On hot summer days in Japan, the locals have collected their share of ways to cool down. While spending all day indoors with air conditioning during the peak of summer may be tempting and often justified, missing out on the fun outdoor activities and sunshine isn’t ideal either. A refreshing dessert may be the best (and tastiest) solution to the heat, as they’re sweet, crisp, and refreshing bliss for both your palette and body. Probably the dessert most heavily associated with Japan during summer is that of kakigori. Put simply, kakigori is shaved ice and has a longer and richer history within Japan’s culinary catalog than many may think. The first recorded mentions of shaved ice topped with sweet syrup date back to the Heian Period of Japan, but its popularity came more to the masses in the 19th century. Today, it is a sweet treat available in many iterations, from simple stands at festivals to dedicated specialty shops offering luxurious and unique flavors, often signified with a brightly colored sign with the kanji for “ice” (氷) written in red. 

Tokyo, especially, is host to countless places to get kakigori, and thankfully so, given the hot and humid weather seen from July to September. Take a look at five of our favorite kakigori shops in Japan’s capital, and be sure to bookmark them in case the craving for sweet and refreshing pops up!

Kaneido Mejiro

3 Chome-14-3 Mejiro, Toshima City, Tokyo 171-0031

Kaneido is a sweets and confectionary store originally hailing from Kyoto. They have a number of locations throughout its home city, other parts of Kansai, and throughout Kanto, with one of its most popular being in Mejiro, nearby the Yamanote Line. Kaneido’s offerings are as traditionally Japanese as they get, with azuki beans, matcha, and mochi goods being their claims to fame. The same classic offerings extend to the kakigori, deep green with matcha syrup and served with thick, luscious globs of red anko. Kaneido is unapologetically dedicated to original Japanese confection flavors, and its kakigori is a great fusion of old meets new.

Parlor Vinefru

〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 1 Chome−20−10

Ginza is often celebrated as Tokyo’s most luxurious neighborhood. Every square meter of this revered Chuo-ku commercial district is adorned with high-end shopping, world-class restaurants, classy cafes, and aesthetic art galleries, and the iconic Parlor Vinefru reflects this sophisticated atmosphere perfectly. From interior decor to the famous dessert offerings, Parlor Vinefru is one of the most elegant and indulgent sweet shops in the city. In regards to the kakigori, the well-curated fruit toppings are classic; however, the bleu cheese kakigori is one of the more distinct offerings, with a nice, smooth funk from the bleu cheese that is well complimented with crisp ice and fresh creaminess. The strawberry pistachio kakigori is also a favorite, with nutty richness complimented with tart and sweet fruitiness. If you’re in the mood for something warmer, the parlor’s souffle pancakes are just as famous, with the tiramisu ones being especially beloved.

Azabu Yasai Gashi 

3 Chome-1-5 Azabujuban, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0045

Azabujuban is one of the cuisine centers in Tokyo. Home to many Michelin-awarded establishments alongside modest bistros and unique cocktail bars, there is something for all foodies in this relaxed yet upscale neighborhood. Azabu Yasai Gashi fills the role of a must-visit dessert shop in this area, flocked to for its kakigori that features fruits curated from all over Japan. The offerings are very seasonal, with the peak parts of summer primarily being peach with early grey sauce and fig! For those wanting something very standout that is likely not to be found at any other dessert spot, the avocado kakigori is sure to satisfy!

Amaikko

2 Chome-20-4 Nishiogiminami, Suginami City, Tokyo 167-0053

Amaikko is on the opposite end of the spectrum from places like Azabu Yasai Gashi and Parlor Vinefru, not in taste, of course, but rather atmosphere. Amaikko takes pride in being a charming and local spot in a more understated setting near Nishi-Ogikubo Station. The kakigori isn’t in the form of super-indulgent, piled-up servings, but rather more (literally) down to earth and akin to what would find served at a local Japanese family’s home, simply elevated! In that vein, kakigori offerings are also available in kid-sizes, making this a great spot for families to visit and for everyone to have their own chilly treat! The shop is most well-known for its apricot and strawberry syrup kakigori, served with chewy balls of mochi lining the rim. There are an array of other old-school Japanese treats to choose from as well, with the kakigori being available from the end of April to the end of October. 

Kooriya Peace

〒180-0003 Tokyo, Musashino, Kichijoji Minamicho, 1 Chome−9−9

Kooriya Peace is an establishment with an interesting story and famed presence in Tokyo. The current owner is a former salaryman who decided to buy the shop after the previous management planned to close. With the management change, the menu was revamped and revitalized while still staying true to the original shop’s roots, and the offerings change up weekly during the warmer months. Many may be familiar with Kooriya Peace after being featured in the well-known show “Kantaro: the Sweet-Tooth Salaryman,” and thus, the popularity of the shop has grown, often needing reservations to go. For those who are able to secure a spot in for the day, they will notice the kakigori’s distinct round shape, fluffy and beautifully served with varying colors.