Japan’s Famous Sakanoue Kakigori is Bringing Its Shaved Ice Magic to Singapore!

If you’ve ever fancied treating yourself to Japan’s iconic shaved ice desserts without boarding a flight to Tokyo, here’s some smashing news for your taste buds: Sakanoue Kakigori, a viral sensation from Japan, is set to open its first permanent outlet in Singapore! From April 2025, this beloved kakigori specialist will bring its fluffy, flavourful creations to the Lion City, giving locals and travellers alike a chance to cool off in style. What Makes Sakanoue Kakigori So Special?

Photo: 8days

For those new to the game, kakigori is Japan’s answer to shaved ice—a light, airy dessert crafted from finely shaved ice blocks, often drizzled with syrups, fruits, and other delightful toppings. Sakanoue, hailing from Tokyo, has earned its reputation as one of Japan’s top kakigori spots, regularly attracting queues of punters willing to wait (sometimes up to four hours!) for a taste of its signature treats. What sets Sakanoue apart? It’s all in the details: the ice is shaved to a cloud-like texture, and the flavours—made with top-notch ingredients—are both creative and utterly moreish.

Previously, Sakanoue teased Singaporeans with pop-up events in 2023 and 2024, where queues stretched over an hour long—a clear sign of its devoted following. Now, it’s putting down roots, and we’re absolutely chuffed to bits.

Where and When to Find It

Pop the date in your diary: 4 April 2025, when Sakanoue officially opens its doors at Drips Bakery Café in the trendy Tiong Bahru neighbourhood. The exact spot? 82 Tiong Poh Road, #01-05, Singapore 160082. This partnership with Drips Bakery Café promises a cosy yet stylish setting to enjoy your kakigori fix, whether you’re a dessert aficionado or just after a refreshing break from Singapore’s heat.

What to Expect

Photo: Time Out

While Sakanoue’s pop-ups showcased rotating daily flavours, the permanent outlet will offer a fixed menu of six kakigori options. Standouts include the crowd-pleaser Signature Strawberry Shortcake Kakigori (£13.50), a dreamy mix of shaved ice, milk syrup, strawberry sauce, and whipped cream. Even better? Singapore gets its own exclusive treat: the Signature Blackforest Kakigori (£15.30), a local twist that’s bound to become a must-try.

From its delicate ice to its imaginative toppings (think adorable pandas and seasonal fruits in Japan), Sakanoue’s kakigori is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. It’s no surprise this Tokyo gem has been hailed as one of the city’s top 10 kakigori destinations.

Why You Should Be Excited

Photo: Time Out

Singapore’s food scene is already a cracking blend of global flavours, but Sakanoue’s arrival adds a refreshing Japanese twist that’s spot-on for our tropical climate. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller who’s sampled kakigori in Japan or a curious newbie, this is your chance to tuck into a dessert that’s been delighting locals and tourists alike since its Tokyo debut in 2012. Plus, with its permanent home in Tiong Bahru, you won’t need to chase pop-ups or settle for fleeting visits—it’s here for good.

Plan Your Visit

Sakanoue x Drips Bakery Café opens its doors on 4 April 2025, and we reckon it’ll be a hot ticket from day one. Given its track record of lengthy queues, plan to arrive early or pop by on a weekday to dodge the crowds. Pair your kakigori with a wander through Tiong Bahru’s hip streets, and you’ve got a cracking day out sorted.

So, get ready to chill out, Singapore-style, with Japan’s finest shaved ice. Sakanoue Kakigori is nearly here, and trust us—you won’t want to miss this cool new addition to the city’s dessert scene!

Top Photo: Time Out