Akafuku Kōri is a popular Japanese shaved-ice dessert created in 1961 at Futamiura in Ise, Mie Prefecture, originally to refresh visitors enjoying the seaside in summer. Since its introduction, the recipe has been refined into the treat enjoyed today: finely shaved ice covered with rich matcha syrup, with sweet red bean paste and soft mochi hidden inside.
The red bean filling inside Akafuku Kōri is specially prepared to complement the cold ice. Unlike the filling used in the traditional Akafuku confection sold as a souvenir, it is designed to retain its appeal when chilled. As you eat through the refreshing matcha ice, the sweet bean paste and chewy mochi gradually appear, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
The combination of fragrant matcha, gently sweet red bean paste, and soft mochi makes Akafuku Kōri a distinctive Japanese summer dessert. Its unexpected filling and delicious flavor have made it so popular that queues can form even on the hottest days. For visitors exploring Ise, it is a memorable seasonal specialty that is best enjoyed during the summer months.
Peak season: July and August. This limited-season treat is a refreshing way to cool down while discovering the food culture of Ise.