Kakigori

Kakigori

Japanese Name

かきごおり

kakigoori

Description

Kakigori is a traditional Japanese shaved ice dessert.
It is made from finely shaved ice.
Sweet syrup is poured over the ice for flavor.
Common flavors include strawberry, melon, and matcha.
Kakigori is especially popular during the hot summer.
Some modern kakigori uses milk, fruit, or cream toppings.
The ice melts quickly and feels very refreshing.
It is enjoyed by both children and adults in Japan.

History

Kakigori was first eaten over a thousand years ago in Japan.
It appeared in the Heian period among nobles.
Back then, natural ice was stored and shaved by hand.
For a long time, it was a luxury dessert for the rich.
In the Meiji period, ice-making machines were introduced.
This made kakigori available to ordinary people.
Street stalls selling kakigori became common in summer festivals.
Today, kakigori is a famous symbol of Japanese summer culture.

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