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Kakigori Houseki-bako is one of the most renowned shaved ice shops in the Kansai region.
It's located about 8 minutes on foot from Kintetsu-Nara Station, in a corner of Mochiidono Shopping Street, where over 100 shops old and new line up, and said to be the oldest in Nara. Kakigori Houseki-bako played a pivotal role in sparking Nara's shaved ice boom.
While the pure ice used for shaved ice is usually frozen over 2 days, the ice used here is carefully made over about 3 days (72 hours). This results in a light and smooth texture with a great melt-in-your-mouth feel. Another characteristic is the use of a mousse-like foam sauce (espuma) in most of their shaved ice.
The flavors use local Nara-produced matcha and fresh milk from nearby farms, along with seasonal fruits, citrus fruits, melons, peaches, pears, chestnuts, persimmons, Shine Muscat grapes, strawberries, custard cream, mascarpone cream, pistachios, local honey, white miso, and more in various combinations. They even offer flavors inspired by Nara, like "Early Summer Wakakusayama". The flavor changes depending on when you visit, so be sure to check their SNS.
In the past, you had to wait in line to get their shaved ice, but now you can make a web reservation, specify the time, and enjoy it without waiting.
Every season, they serve shaved ice using seasonal fruits
They also offer shaved ice matched to events like Valentine's Day
They have been in operation in Mochiidono Shopping Street since 2018
The shop offers counter seats and tables, with a total of 36 seats available.
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have menus in foreign languages or with pictures? (If so, please let us know the languages available.)
Yes, we have an English menu and menu with pictures.
Q
Do you serve vegetarian menus?
No
Q
Can I take photos of the food, etc.?
Customers are free to take pictures, but please refrain from shooting inside the kitchen, or where the faces of staff and other customers can be seen.
Q
Do you have plugs for charging devices?
Yes, at some seats.
Q
Can I get take-out?
Sorry, it is not available.
Q
Can I make a reservation by phone?
No, you cannot. For details about reservations, please check our SNS (@housekibaco).
Q
Is there free Wi-Fi available in the restaurant?
No free Wi-Fi available.
Q
Is parking available?
Not available.
