The Ultimate Nara Kakigori Guide: Discover the Coolest Treats in Japan’s Ancient Capital

When the summer heat hits its peak, few things are more refreshing than a bowl of kakigori—Japan’s iconic shaved ice dessert. But in Nara, one of Japan’s most historic cities, kakigori is more than just a seasonal indulgence. It’s a cultural expression steeped in centuries of history and tradition. Join us on a journey with the ultimate Nara Kakigori Guide through Nara’s unique kakigori culture and discover six standout shops that blend creativity, heritage, and flavor into every bite.

The Unique Allure of Nara’s Kakigori Culture

A Historic Connection Between Nara and Ice

Nara’s relationship with ice dates back over 1,400 years. In ancient times, “Himuro”—ice storage chambers—were used to preserve ice for the imperial family and aristocrats, offering them a rare taste of cool relief. This legacy of treasured ice eventually evolved into the refined kakigori culture we see in Nara today. The city still houses two Himuro Shrines, symbolic guardians of this age-old tradition and a reminder of Nara’s deep-rooted connection to ice.

The Birth of the Nara Kakigori Guide

First published in 2015, the Nara Kakigori Guide has become an annual celebration of the region’s flourishing shaved ice scene. Now entering its 11th year in 2025, the guide features 47 distinctive kakigori shops, each with its own signature creations. It’s become an essential companion for food lovers exploring the culinary landscape of Nara. First published in 2015, the Nara Kakigori Guide has become an annual celebration of the region’s flourishing shaved ice scene.

Official website: https://nara-kakigori.com

6 Must-Try Kakigori Spots in Nara

Central & Southern Nara Area

1. Cafe&Restaurant Rabelais

A visit to Rabelais feels like stepping into an edible art gallery. With the owner’s playful spirit and creative flair, each kakigori here is crafted with both imagination and precision.

Just a 7-minute walk from Kintetsu Yamato-Yagi Station, you’ll spot a charming wooden door framed by lush greenery. Step inside and you’ll find a bright, minimalist space decorated with hand-drawn illustrations that create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Today, we’re highlighting two of the shop’s most popular kakigori creations Tropical Thunder (¥1,200) A refreshing treat perfect for summer. This yogurt-based kakigori is topped with a tangy kiwi sauce and layered with tropical flavors like pineapple and mango. Light, fruity, and delightfully cooling.

另 Super Thank You Berry Nuts (¥1,100) An elevated version of the long-loved classic Thank You Berry Nuts. This year’s version swaps the usual whipped cream for a rich, nutty pistachio cream, adding a luxurious touch. The shaved ice is infused with a decadent blend of caramel, hazelnut syrup, and roasted hojicha syrup, balanced beautifully by a dollop of blueberry compote.

There’s even a hidden surprise tucked inside—something you’ll only discover when you dig in!

More info about Cafe&Restaurant Rabelais

Address:

•  5-5-16 Uchizemmachi, Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture

Access:

•  7-minute walk from Kintetsu Yamato-Yagi Station

Instagram:

•  @caferestaurant_rabelais

Kakigori available  :

• year-round

Reservations :

• No reservations

Hours:

• 11:00–19:00
• Closed Mondays
• Note: Opening hours may vary from July to September. Please check their official social media for updates.

Map

2. 氷点菓（Hyotenka）

At Hyotenka, precision, passion, and craftsmanship meet in every bowl. Known for their obsession with creating the perfect pudding, this artisanal shop has transformed their pursuit into an original kakigori creation that’s as unexpected as it is unforgettable.

Their signature item, the Hyotenka Pudding Kakigori (¥1,500), is unlike anything you’ve had before. Made from a specially developed pudding base, it’s first baked, then rapidly frozen, and finally shaved into fine, snow-like layers—resulting in a dreamy, silky texture that feels like chilled custard melting on your tongue.

The kakigori is served with a selection of toppings such as caramel foam, kuromitsu (black sugar syrup), and kinako (roasted soybean flour). For those looking to indulge further, there’s a Special Edition (¥2,000) and a Premium Edition (¥2,500) featuring even more elaborate toppings and presentation.

We tried the Premium Edition ourselves, and the elaborate plating felt like a full-course dessert set—rich and deeply satisfying.

One of the most impressive aspects? Even after some time has passed, the kakigori doesn’t simply melt into water—instead, it gradually transforms into a smooth, pudding-like consistency, keeping the surprise alive until the very last bite.

In addition to kakigori, Hyotenka also offers homemade puddings and seasonal jams—perfect for those who adore creamy textures and elegant flavors.

This is a must-visit not only for kakigori fans but also for anyone who loves pudding done to perfection.

More info about 氷点菓（Hyotenka）

Address:

• 6-5 Kitakatsurashicho, Yamatotakada City, Nara Prefecture

Access:

• 15-minute walk from Kintetsu Takadashi Station

Website:

• http://hyotenka.com

Kakigori available :

• year-round

Reservations

• No reservations

Hours:

• 12:00–16:00
• Irregular holidays

Map

Northern Nara Area

3. Kakigori-Tei Ippo (かき氷亭 一歩)

A local favorite for both kids and adults, Kakigori-Tei Ippo is one of the most talked-about kakigori spots in Nara.

What sets this shop apart is its Taiwanese-style shaved ice, which is rare in the region. Instead of pouring syrup over plain ice, the ice blocks themselves are pre-flavored, then shaved into ultra-fine snow-like textures.

The shop offers a wide range of ice flavors—mango, strawberry, matcha, farm-fresh milk, yogurt, pudding, and more. Customers are encouraged to mix and match toppings to create their very own kakigori masterpiece.

Among the most popular choices is the Milk Ice Kakigori (¥1,150), made with milk from the Komagane Farm in Nagano. It’s often paired with their house-made red bean paste, black soybean kinako from Uda (Nara Prefecture), rich condensed milk, chewy shiratama mochi, and fresh fruit purées—a truly unforgettable combination.

Another top choice is the Uji Matcha Kakigori (¥1,150). Matcha lovers can add extra matcha syrup for a more intense green tea experience. (Note: Toppings are sold separately.)

If you’re looking for something playful and refreshing this summer, this Taiwanese-inspired kakigori is sure to cool you down with a burst of creativity and flavor.

More info about Kakigori-Tei Ippo (かき氷亭 一歩)

Address: 

• 724-1 Tsutsui-cho, Yamatokoriyama City, Nara Prefecture

Access: 

• Near Kintetsu Tsutsui Station

Website:

• https://ippo.nara.jp

Kakigori available:

• May 1 – October 12

Reservations

• Reservations accepted for groups of 5 or more

Hours:

• 12:00–17:30
• Closed days vary  (check the official website)

Map

Nara Street Area

4. STAND GRANCHA – Yamato Tea Daifuku Specialty Shop

Famous for its luxurious Yamato tea daifuku (mochi stuffed with cream and tea), STAND GRANCHA introduces an elegant, tea-infused kakigori creation that’s sure to surprise your palate and soothe your soul.

Their 2025 signature kakigori, Shin-Kofuku Gori (¥1,500), features delicately shaved sencha ice made with a special machine that produces ultra-fine flakes with a texture like freshly fallen snow. The moment it touches your tongue, it melts—leaving behind a rich, aromatic tea flavor.

Topped with smooth whipped cream and the shop’s famous Kofuku Mochi (a Yamato tea daifuku), the kakigori is further adorned with a crisp monaka wafer. The presentation is as poetic as moonlight rising over Mount Wakakusa.

Hidden inside are delightful layers of traditional Japanese flavors—matcha Bavarian cream, three types of Yamato tea jellies and kanten, and house-made red bean paste. Each spoonful offers a new surprise.
To finish, drizzle on the thick matcha syrup to unleash the full depth and sweetness of Yamato tea.

Also worth trying is the Mont Blanc Ice Cream Yamato Sencha Milk Kakigori series (¥1,200), available in chestnut, matcha, and purple sweet potato flavors. Beneath the Mont Blanc-style topping lies a generous scoop of both matcha and vanilla ice cream.

For an even more indulgent option, try the “Silken Gem” Mont Blanc Kakigori (¥1,400), a premium version that combines all three Mont Blanc flavors in one stunning bowl.

The shop also offers a wide selection of matcha-based drinks and desserts, making it the perfect stop for a peaceful, tea-scented moment wrapped in the delicate sweetness of wagashi.

More info about STAND GRANCHA

Address: 

• 22 Higashimuki Nakamachi, Nara City, Nara Prefecture

Access: 

• 1-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station

Instagram:

• https://www.instagram.com/grancha_nara/

Kakigori available :

• year-round

Reservations

• No reservations

Hours:

• 12:00–18:00
• Closed on New Year’s Day

Map

5. Kakigori Housekibako

Blending Nara’s local character with seasonal ingredients, Kakigori Housekibako transforms shaved ice into dazzling edible jewels. The name “Housekibako” literally means “jewel box,” and their creations truly live up to it—each bowl a colorful, sparkling celebration of flavor and aesthetics.

Their signature item, the Pastel Fruit Kakigori (¥1,700), is the ultimate expression of this concept. Three types of fruit syrups are poured over the ice in gradient layers—strawberry, butterfly pea flower (a floral blue hue), and mango—resulting in a visually stunning rainbow effect. Hidden beneath are tart and juicy surprises like yuzu and kiwi purée, making every bite a bright, citrusy delight.

It’s topped with a gentle cheese foam and soft hibiscus jelly, adding rich textures and a refreshing floral finish.

What makes Housekibako stand out isn’t just the flavors—it’s the precision in ice texture management and the meticulous shaving technique that gives each spoonful an almost weightless melt-in-the-mouth sensation. Every bowl is crafted with deep respect for the ingredients, and even deeper affection for Nara itself.

In fact, their mission is simple yet heartfelt: “We hope every visitor will fall in love with Nara through kakigori.”
And it works—because these creations are more than just dessert. They’re seasonal works of edible art, rooted in local identity and made to be remembered.

Beyond shaved ice, the shop also offers charming souvenirs and local gifts, perfect for commemorating your journey through Nara with a touch of sweetness.

More info about Kakigori Housekibako

Address:

• 47 Mochiidonocho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture

Access:

• 8-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station

Reservations:

• https://airrsv.net/housekibaco-sousuke/calendar

Kakigori available:

• year-round

Hours:

• 10:00–13:00 & 14:00–17:00
• Closed Thursdays

Map

6. 春日庵（Kasugaan）

Founded in 1897 during the Meiji era, Kasugaan is a long-established Japanese confectionery shop famous for its signature sweet, Satsuma-yaki (a type of traditional baked wagashi). True to its heritage, the shop applies its centuries-old craftsmanship not only to its confections but also to its elegantly simple kakigori.

Their most iconic flavor is the Strawberry Milk Kakigori, a classic combination beloved by generations of Japanese people. Kasugaan’s take on this nostalgic favorite is intentionally minimalist—a return to pure, essential flavor. The shop invites visitors to savor the honest charm of strawberries and milk, unadorned and heartfelt.

The experience unfolds in layers: it begins with the vivid aroma and sweet-tart burst of fresh strawberries, then gradually transitions into the mellow richness of milk. Visually, the kakigori transforms too—from deep red to soft pink to snowy white—mirroring the evolving taste with each spoonful. It’s a gentle journey, both in flavor and in mood.

To make the experience even more comfortable, the shop has renovated its seating—from traditional tatami mats to table-and-chair settings—offering a relaxed and inviting space for guests of all ages.

If you’re in Nara and wish to enjoy a bowl of kakigori that embodies tradition, simplicity, and quiet beauty, Kasugaan is the perfect place to step back in time and savor a taste of old Japan.

More info about 春日庵（Kasugaan）

Address:

•  28 Nakaishicho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture

Access: 

• 12-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station

Instagram：

• https://www.instagram.com/kasugaan/

Kakigori available:

• year-round

Reservations

• No reservations

Hours:

• 10:00–17:00
• Closed Thursdays & the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays

Map

Visiting Tips & Notes

Check opening hours in advance during peak seasons, as schedules may change.

Expect queues at popular shops, especially on weekends and holidays.

Some establishments require reservations—be sure to check ahead.

Avoid peak mealtimes (around noon to 2:00 PM) for a smoother experience.

Be aware of special operating hours during seasonal events and festivals.

Kakigori in Nara Is More Than Just a Dessert

In Nara, kakigori isn’t simply a “cold sweet treat”—it’s a delicate expression of Japanese culinary artistry. Rooted in ancient Himuro (ice chamber) culture and refined through the skilled hands of wagashi artisans, these shaved ice creations embody thoughtful design in every detail: from flavor composition and plating to the very technique of ice shaving.

Each bowl reflects the deep appreciation the people of Nara have for the seasons, hospitality, and the art of mindful living.

Whether you’re a passionate foodie or a curious cultural explorer, a kakigori pilgrimage in Nara promises to be an unforgettable summer memory.

This year, why not make the journey to Nara and discover the one bowl that captures your heart?

Kintetsu Railway Official Website

Read more articles

• Unagi Day : a summer tradition of eating eel in Japan
• Hiroshima style Okonomiyaki vs Osaka style Okonomiyaki
• Three best ice cream shops to visit in Tokyo!

Back To Top