When the summer sun settles over Japan, there is one treat everyone reaches for, the "kakigōri", the beloved shaved-ice dessert that’s been refreshing generations. Its roots stretch back to the Heian period (794–1185), when only the aristocracy could enjoy hand-shaved ice saved from winter, served with sweet syrups as a luxurious reprieve. Over centuries, improvements in ice storage and transport made it accessible to the public, in fact, the first kakigōri shop is said to have opened in Yokohama around 1869 .
These days, kakigōri has evolved and is iconic across Japan’s summer festivals, carried by street stalls under flags bearing the kanji 氷 (“ice”). Its cloud-like softness, flavored with matcha, fruit, condensed milk, and more, makes it a perennial favorite.
From Tradition to Treat: The Story of Gold Pak Ice
While kakigōri remains a handcrafted classic, modern convenience means you can savor that icy bliss in a snap, like with the Gold Pak Ice bars. Gold Pak is a venerable Japanese beverage company, founded in 1959 and known for crafting everything from fruit juices to nourishing drinks under the Gold Pak brands. Their ice bars take that juice expertise and turn it into refreshing frozen treats fruity, delicious, and portable for today’s on-the-go enjoyment.
Chill Out with a Modern Classic: Our Gold Pak Premium Fruit Ice Bar Gift Box
We’re excited to introduce our Sakura Box Premium Fruit Ice Bar Gift Box, featuring a curated selection of Gold Pak’s most delightful ice bars. It’s the perfect way to experience this heritage treat in all its frozen glory.
Explore and shop Gold Pak Ice bars here: Premium Japanese Ice Fruit Bar Gift Box.