Welcome to Japan, foreign visitors! Japanese convenience stores, known as konbini, are open 24/7 and are incredibly convenient for finding almost anything you need. Especially, enjoying ice cream from konbini is perfect for refreshing yourself during your trip. In this article, we will introduce ten types of ice creams available at Japanese konbini that we recommend to foreign visitors. We will also include unique Japanese flavors and seasonal products, so please use this as a reference.
Popular Ice Creams Among Japanese People
1. Gari-Gari Kun
Gari-Gari Kun was born in 1981 and has been loved nationwide in Japan as a summer staple ice cream. The soda flavor is particularly popular, characterized by its crunchy ice texture and refreshing taste. Various flavors appear seasonally, allowing you to enjoy unique tastes.
2. Pino
Pino, released in 1976, is a small, bite-sized ice cream coated in chocolate. In addition to classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, special limited flavors frequently appear. Finding the star-shaped Pino in the package adds an element of fun.
3. Yukimi Daifuku
Yukimi Daifuku, introduced in 1981, is an ice cream wrapped in a chewy mochi. The combination of cold ice cream and soft mochi is irresistible. While vanilla is the standard flavor, variations like matcha and chocolate are also popular.
4. Häagen-Dazs
Häagen-Dazs is a highly popular ice cream brand in Japan as well. Japanese-exclusive flavors such as matcha and strawberry cheesecake are especially loved. Known for its rich and creamy taste, it is enjoyed as a slightly luxurious dessert.
5. Choco Monaka Jumbo
Choco Monaka Jumbo features vanilla ice cream and chocolate sandwiched between crispy monaka wafers. The substantial chocolate inside the ice cream provides a delightful texture contrast. It has been a long-selling product loved since its release in 1972.
6. MOW
MOW, sold by Morinaga Milk Industry, is a cup ice cream known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. Basic flavors like vanilla, matcha, and chocolate are particularly popular, allowing you to fully enjoy the flavor of the ingredients.
7. Shirokuma
Shirokuma is a luxurious shaved ice cream originating from Kagoshima. It is packed with condensed milk and fruits, providing a satisfying and voluminous dessert. Especially popular in the summer, it is conveniently available at konbini nationwide.
8. Tsujiri
Matcha ice cream, a representative flavor of Japan, can be easily purchased at convenience stores. Especially, products with rich matcha flavor are very popular among foreigners as well. We recommend Tsujiri’s matcha ice cream bar. The elegant sweetness and the slight bitterness of matcha are perfectly balanced.
9. Soft Serve Type
Soft serve-type ice creams sold at konbini and supermarkets are also popular. These products often feature a rich milk flavor, making them particularly desirable during hot seasons. One notable example is the soft serve ice cream from Ministop.
10. Ice no Mi
Ice no Mi, bite-sized fruit ice creams released in 1986, have been long-loved. With flavors like mango and grape, these ice creams offer a refreshing fruit taste and can be enjoyed in various seasonal flavors.
Tips for Enjoying Ice Cream at Japanese Konbini
- Check Seasonal Products: Japanese konbini often introduce seasonal ice creams. Enjoy flavors like cherry blossom in spring or watermelon in summer that match the season.
- Try New Products: Japanese konbini are famous for frequently launching new products. There’s always a new ice cream to try every time you visit.
- Check Prices: Japanese konbini ice creams are reasonably priced, ranging from about 100 yen to high-end ice creams. Choose according to your budget.
- Look for Regional Limited Ice Creams: Some ice creams are only available in specific regions. Exploring konbini for these exclusive items can add fun to your travel experience.
These ice creams are all-time favorites among Japanese people. When you visit Japan, be sure to try these ice creams and enjoy the taste of Japan. Easily available at konbini or supermarkets, they can be a quick and delightful treat during your sightseeing adventures.
Have you prepared your smartphone’s internet connection for your trip to Japan?
Japan has fewer free WiFi spots, which often leaves tourists struggling to use their smartphones. It is highly recommended to purchase an eSIM that can be used in Japan before your departure.
Recommended eSIM Service: Rakusim
Rakusim is a prepaid data eSIM that can be used domestically in Japan (voice calls are not supported). You can choose a plan that suits your travel period.
Since Rakusim uses a major carrier network (docomo), you can enjoy smooth internet access not only in urban areas but also in rural regions throughout Japan. You won’t have any trouble staying connected while on the move!
Enjoy a comfortable internet connection during your trip. For applications and details, please click here.