Latest Edition: All-time Best 5 Convenience Store Kakigori to Try This Summer

1. Ujikintoki with Condensed Milk (Akagi)

The Ujikintoki with Condensed Milk produced by Akagi Nyugyo Co. is a kakigori with all the quintessential flavors of a Japanese sweet. Coarse anko (sweet red bean paste) and condensed milk are hidden inside the shaved matcha green tea-flavored ice. When you open the lid, you can faintly see the reddish-brown anko and the white condensed milk within the matcha-green surface. The anko, matcha and condensed milk are perfectly balanced, with a moderate sweetness and refreshing aftertaste. While it is sweet it will still properly quench your thirst. This splendid kakigori delivers the true taste of Japanese summer.

Reference price: 114 JPY (incl. tax)
Where to buy it: Family Mart and others

2. Nangoku Shirokuma (Seika Foods)

Kori Shirokuma is a soul food to the people of Kagoshima Prefecture. Nangoku Shirokuma is a Kagoshima specialty. It is a deluxe kakigori flavored with condensed milk and topped with fruits which can be enjoyed in a convenient package for a reasonable price. It is now being sold at convenience stores and supermarkets, so it is gaining popularity throughout the rest of Japan. The secret to the popularity of this kakigori is its refreshing sweetness as it is topped with plenty of condensed milk and fruits such as mandarin, cherry and adzuki bean. In addition to the Nangoku Shirokuma introduced here, there are also various other types being sold, such as the Nangoku Shirokuma DX series which has introduced a mango flavor, and the Nangoku Shirokuma Luxury Rich series featuring specialty ingredients. If you haven\'t eaten one before, go try one now!

Reference price: 130 JPY (excl. tax)
Where to buy it: AEON, Family Mart and others

3. Strawberry Condensed Milk Ice (7 Premium)

The first thing that captures your attention as you open the lid is the vibrant red of the strawberries contrasting with the white of the condensed milk. The plentiful strawberry sauce contains pieces of fresh strawberry. With lashings of Morinaga condensed milk added, this kakigori has a smooth and creamy mouthfeel and a decadent flavor that is all yours to enjoy.

Reference price: 149 JPY (incl. tax)
Where to buy it: Ito-Yokado, 7-Eleven

4. Sacré (FUTABA Foods)

Sacré is a summertime staple. This long-time best-selling kakigori cup has been around since 1985 and is adored by many Japanese people. The specialty of this weightlessly delicate shaved ice is that it is flaky and easy to eat even right after taking it out of the freezer. Its best feature is the slice of lemon on top of the ice. The lemon and ice combo will shake off the sluggish feeling of summer and instantly invigorate your senses.

Reference price: 130 JPY (excl. tax)
Where to buy it: Lawson, Mini Stop and others

5. Honey and Snow Espresso Latte (Morinaga)

The Honey and Snow series is creating a stir as an evolution of the classic kakigori. It is named for the sauce on top that represents honey and the shaved ice that represents snow, and is a series that offers bold flavors. The delicious treat has been popular since its release and this year the new espresso latte flavor was introduced. Colombian coffee beans are used in the genuine coffee-flavored ice and the creamy latte sauce is poured over top giving it the image of whipped cream, making this a truly rich kakigori.

Reference price: 160 JPY (excl. tax)
Where to buy it: AEON, Lawson and others

Spend the hot summer days feeling refreshed by eating cool and sweet kakigori, now that you know that you can get it in a convenient cup at convenience stores and supermarkets!