Kakigori (shaved ice) is Japan’s must-try during her notoriously hot summer period. Keen to know how it came about? Want to know more about the different types of kakigori? Read this guide to find out!

1. Ancient Origins: Kakigori, Japan's beloved shaved ice dessert, dates back a thousand years to the Heian period. Back then, it was a luxurious treat reserved for Heian nobles since ice was a rare commodity.
2. First Kakigori Shop: The first-ever kakigori shop opened in Kanagawa in 1869. This happened after food entrepreneur Kahe Nakagawa succeeded in delivering Hakodate ice from Hokkaido to Yokohama. Before this, ice had to be imported from America.
3. Healthier Indulgence: Among 100g servings of kakigori, plain soft serve ice cream, and low-fat frozen yogurt, kakigori has the least calories, making it a less sinful indulgence.
4. Local Delicacy: In Kagoshima, you can try "shirokuma," a local delicacy of shaved ice flavored with condensed milk, fruit, and azuki beans.
5. DIY Kakigori: You can make your own kakigori at home by buying an ice-shaving blade from Tokyu Hands for about 20,000 yen. Simply spin a block of ice over the blade to create your own shaved ice dessert.