Shaved Ice Day (Kakigōri no Hi)

What is Shaved Ice Day?

July 25th is "Shaved Ice Day" (Kakigōri no Hi), established by the Japan Shaved Ice Association. The date comes from a wordplay on "natsu-gōri" (summer ice) = "7-2-5" (na-tsu-gōri), and also commemorates the fact that on July 25, 1933 (Shōwa 8), Japan recorded its highest temperature at the time, 40.8°C.

Why July 25th Became Shaved Ice Day

This date was chosen because two things lined up perfectly: the wordplay, and a historic record of extreme heat — making it the perfect day to enjoy shaved ice, a classic symbol of Japanese summer.

• Wordplay: 7 (na) + 2 (tsu) + 5 (gōri) = "natsugōri" (summer ice).
• Heat record: On July 25, 1933, Yamagata City recorded a temperature of 40.8°C.
• A symbol of summer: Shaved ice has long been established as the go-to treat on a hot day.

The Appeal of Kakigōri

Kakigōri is Japan's signature cold summer sweet. From simple ice with syrup to the fluffy shaved ice served at specialty shops, there's a wide range of ways to enjoy it.

• Fluffy-style: Popular at specialty shops, with a light, airy texture full of tiny air pockets.
• Old-fashioned stall-style: Crunchy shaved ice with classic syrup flavors.
• Regional kakigōri: Local specialties made with regional fruits and ingredients.
• Modern kakigōri: Includes milk ice, espuma foam toppings, and dessert-style creations.

Fun Facts About Shaved Ice Day

• The "ice" flag: A flag bearing the character for "ice" has been a symbol of shaved ice shops since the Edo period.
• Natural ice: Ice harvested naturally during the cold of winter melts more slowly and has a smoother mouthfeel.
• The secret behind syrup colors: Strawberry, melon, and "Blue Hawaii" syrups often actually share the same base flavor.
• Shaved ice around the world: Variations include Taiwan's snow ice (xuěhuābīng), Korea's patbingsu, and Hawaii's shave ice.

Ways to Enjoy Shaved Ice Day

• Visit your favorite shaved ice shop.
• Shave ice at home and create your own original kakigōri.
• Look up regional kakigōri specialties and add them to your travel bucket list.
• Learn about the culture of cooling summer desserts.

A Cold, Sweet Bowl That Makes You Forget the Heat

Shaved Ice Day on July 25th is all about enjoying the cool relief of summer. Whether fluffy or crunchy, treat yourself to your favorite kakigōri and beat the heat.