Kakigōri – Japan’s fluffy ice dessert

Kakigōri is a classic Japanese dessert made from finely shaved ice and in its simplest form is topped with flavored syrup. It is both refreshing and beautiful – perfect for Japan's hot summers.

What sets kakigōri apart is the ice itself. It is often made from Japan’s naturally soft water, which is slowly frozen, creating clear, compact ice without air bubbles. When it is then shaved with sharp, hand-cranked or electric machines, the result is similar to fluffy snow with a silky texture – not crushed or icy, but soft and melts in your mouth.

Kakigōri is then built up in layers, alternating the ice and toppings with things like condensed milk, foam, fruit purees, flavored syrups, or sweet adzuki bean paste. Popular flavors include Japanese favorites like matcha and hojicha. The result is a dessert that is both visually beautiful and full of nuanced flavors.