Summer in Japan is hot and humid, making it the perfect time to try different ice cream varieties you can find in stores. Japan loves its seasonal flavours, and there is no exception in summer, as supermarkets and convenience stores release light, refreshing ice cream flavours that go down a treat. Companies also sell seasonal ice creams only available during the hotter months, allowing consumers to associate the sweltering Japanese heat with different yummy, cool snacks. Even the packaging has summer motifs, such as the beach or fireworks.
Popular Ice Cream in Japan
Ice cream, known as アイス (aisu) in Japanese, is a staple sweet for summer. It’s easy to buy ice cream as you can find it in convenience stores, supermarkets, and even vending machines. The variety offered in stores can make it difficult to choose which one to try first, so here is a list of my go-to ice creams.
Watermelon Bar
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The Watermelon Bar is one of my personal favourites. It’s a watermelon-shaped ice bar that tastes just like concentrated watermelon. The ‘seeds’ are small chocolate chips, which surprisingly complement the main flavour. The green ‘rind’ is a sweeter, melon taste. Sometimes you can find a “reverse” watermelon bar, mostly green with a red ‘rind.’
Super Cup Ice Cream
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Super Cup is made by the well-known brand, Meiji. They’ve been making ice cream since 1924 and have created a recipe with a creamy consistency. Meiji makes the controversial mint chocolate chip, which I like, but many others disagree. If you are a fan of mint chocolate chip, then I highly recommend it. If not, try another flavour, such as Vanilla, Green Tea or Chocolate Cookie.
Mow Ice Cream
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Mow is another famous ice cream range that Japanese people cannot get enough of. First-time consumers are often pleasantly surprised by its high-quality smooth texture, as it is sold at a reasonable price in supermarkets. The quality was even approved by the International Taste Institute in Brussels, which awarded the ice cream with a Superior Taste Award. Currently, Mow sells a limited-release flavour, especially for Summer, called Musk Melon.
Coolish Ice Cream
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Another ice cream that has a limited Musk Melon flavour for summer is Coolish. If you pick up a regular flavour, such as vanilla or Calpis, the slogan on the packaging says, “ゴクと夏の幸せ” which means, “Gulp this for summer happiness.” They have also released Coolish Green, a vegan alternative made from soy milk. Coolish’s unique packaging makes it easy to eat, and you don’t have to worry about making a mess if it melts. It ends up becoming a slushie-like consistency.
Ice Box
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Ice Box is grapefruit-flavoured ice that can be enjoyed by itself or with your drink of choice. The shape acts as a cup and makes it easy to drink. If the drink is already chilled, the ice takes longer to melt, allowing you to refill your beverage into the cup as many times as you like.
Yukimi Daifuku
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Available all year round, Yukimi Daifuku is a popular choice for adults and children alike. It is ice cream wrapped in a mochi layer, resembling daifuku. The company, Lotte, create some interesting limited-edition flavours, such as pudding, and have others filled with sweet sauces, such as custard or chocolate. According to Lotte, it is best to wait 8 minutes after taking the dessert from the freezer for the best consistency.
Soh
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When I first tried Soh, I was surprised at the texture. I was expecting it to be a smooth type of ice cream however it has pieces of icy crystals to deliver a crunch in each bite. Although I couldn’t get accustomed to the Vanilla, I was excited to see this Soda and Grape Ramune flavour Summer release. The fresh soda taste paired with the crunch is perfect to eat on a hot day.
Gatsun-to Frozen Mandarin Orange Ice Bar
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Mandarin is a common fruit to eat in Japan, so it is no surprise that you can find the fruit in a sweet cold treat. Made from 40% fruit juice, the ice bar tastes like juice with the extra bonus of jelly-like mandarin pieces inside. For the higher concentration of juice, make sure to get the individually sold bars rather than the boxed ones, as the 5-pack only contains 30% fruit juice. The brand, Akagi, is also well known for Gari Gari Kun, which has a similar crunch to the Mandarin Bar.
Which Ice Cream Will You Try?
If you head to your closest supermarket and check out the ice cream section, they often have a large range for you to try. From smooth and creamy to crunchy and icey, there are many different types of ice creams. Try one from this list, or if you want to be more adventurous, then try something else you find. No matter what you choose, all Japanese ice creams are really good.
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