In a quiet corner of Ueno’s bustling entertainment district lies a discreetly signed shaved ice specialty shop: “Ueno Kakigōri Senmonten Yondaime Ōnoya Hyoushitsu” (hereafter “Onoya Hyoushitsu”). It operates during the day out of a space that becomes a bar after dark—an inventive use of space that adds to its charm.
The highlight here is silk‑fluffy kakigōri (shaved ice) that melts in your mouth like fresh snow, made from carefully crafted pure ice and meticulously shaved—a sublime sensation.
“宇治抹茶金時,” Uji Matcha Kintoki (with 100 JPY ‘extra milk’ topping) 1,000 JPY (tax included)
What Is “Namagōri”? The secrets behind this shaved ice’s unique textures
At Onoya Hyoushitsu, the kakigori is made using a special kind of ice known as “namagōri” (literally, “fresh ice”).
The fourth-generation owner of a long-standing ice shop inherited his predecessors’ discerning eye for quality and took a new step in 2017 by opening a specialty shaved ice store.
Preparing shaved ice Onoya Hyoushitsu
Namagori starts with water completely purified of impurities, frozen over 48 hours or more at minus 10°C (14°F). By freezing slowly over time, it creates an exceptionally clear and pure ice free of any off-flavors.
From a large 135 kg (297 lbs) ice pillar, the restaurant’s skilled fourth-generation owner carefully selects the best parts to procure.
Just like tuna has akami (lean meat), chūtoro (medium fatty tuna), and ōtoro (extra fatty tuna) cuts, Onoya Hyoushitsu believes ice also has different parts.
The carefully selected ice is truly special—some might even call it the “filet mignon of ice.”
Onoya Hyoushitsu’s signature namagori
Namagori ice must meet strict requirements, with one of the most important being precise temperature control.
From freezing to the moment it’s shaved and served, the ice is kept at a constant -10°C, allowing no temperature changes.
In addition, all the namagori ice brought in is used up within the day. The shop offers a unique service called “Oigōri” (refill ice), where customers can get extra shaved ice for free.
Customers decide how much “Oigori” (refill ice) they want
While it may seem like a simple perk, “Oigori” is designed to let customers fully savor the pure flavor and texture of the ice.
Plus, requesting Oigori helps foster a small moment of connection between customers and the staff.
Additional syrup is not included with Oigori
To highlight the unique qualities of the namagori ice, Onoya Hyoushitsu in Ueno has its own special approach to serving shaved ice.
To preserve the delicate texture of freshly shaved ice, the kakigori is never pressed or packed by hand but gently piled up as is, creating a light and airy presentation.
While many places shape the ice by hand to add volume and prevent collapse, Onoya Hyoushitsu intentionally avoids forming the ice, emphasizing the natural texture of the namagori.
From the first bite to the last spoonful, you can enjoy a light, melting texture that dissolves effortlessly.
Onoya Hyoushitsu’s unique method of not shaping the ice during preparation
The name “namagori” reflects the desire to share the existence of such delicate and beautifully crafted ice with as many people as possible. Its texture, light and melting like eating fresh snow, continues to draw in many fans.
As proof, especially in summer, long lines form outside the shop. The allure of namagori is so strong that people are willing to wait in long lines just to taste it.
Must try kakigori at Onoya Hyoushitsu
Thanks to the exceptional quality of the namagori ice, there’s an equally strong passion behind creating syrups that bring out its full potential.
Syrup made using fresh strawberry pieces
So far, Onoya Hyoushitsu has crafted over 1,000 different syrups.
Because they know the ice inside and out, they carefully adjust everything—from how much water to add, to how long to simmer, to the type of sugar—balancing the natural sweetness and tartness of the ingredients.
Take their classic “Onoya Hyoushitsu Strawberry Milk” kakigori for example: it keeps the texture of the strawberry pieces while perfectly balancing sweetness and acidity.
The homemade condensed milk drizzled on top adds a gentle, rich finish to the whole experience.
“大野屋のいちごみるく,” Onoya Hyoushitsu Strawberry Milk kakigori 800 JPY (tax included)
The shop’s signature Uji Matcha Kintoki features a rich matcha flavor that tastes as fresh as if it were just whisked.
While the syrup in shaved ice often loses flavor as the ice melts, the version at Onoya Hyoushitsu maintains a consistent taste from the first bite to the last.
Adding the paid topping “Double Milk” for an extra 100 JPY softens the sweetness and adds a nice twist to the flavor.
“宇治抹茶金時（１００円の『倍ミルク』トッピング込み）” Uji Matcha Kintoki (with Double Milk for an additional 100 JPY) 1,000 JPY (tax included)
And not to be missed is the “Shaved Ice with Sweet Red Bean, Milk, and Salt” — a signature treat at Onoya Hyoushitsu. This original dish stands out for its incredibly light and refreshing mouthfeel.
The unexpected twist? You sprinkle the salt on yourself right before eating. It’s a classic flavor trick: the salt sharpens the sweetness and adds a layer of complexity.
It may seem simple, but it’s a flavor experience only possible thanks to the owner’s deep understanding of shaved ice.
“大野屋四代目のみぞれ金時ミルクに塩,” Shaved Ice with Sweet Red Bean, Milk, and Salt 900 JPY (tax included)
Authentic kakigori flavor at budget-friendly prices!
Onoya Hyoushitsu operates out of the first floor of a place called “Hidarikiki.”
The shop is a small, counter-only space that retains the cozy atmosphere of the bar it shares the space with.
Handwritten menus and the sound of ice being shaved blend into the background, creating a nostalgic and comforting ambiance.
The July 20205 menu
The menu features a wide variety of shaved ice, including some unique creations made with rare fruits.
That said, the two kakigori introduced above are classics that are often available year-round.
If you’re not sure what to order, they’re a surefire and satisfying first choice.
Prices start around 900 JPY, with even the most expensive options only around 1,000 JPY—a surprisingly good deal for such high quality.
The lineup changes gradually with the seasons, offering new flavors and sensations throughout the year.
Once you visit, you’ll find yourself wanting to return again for another taste of namagori. It’s the kind of shop that leaves a lasting impression on your summer memories.
Exterior of Onoya Hyoushitsu
Information
| Store name | 上野かき氷専門店四代目大野屋氷室 Ueno Kakigori Senmonten 4daime Ohno-ya Hyoushitsu |
|---|---|
| Address | 6-14-1 Ueno 1F, Taito-ku, Tokyo
|
| Access |
Ueno Station（UEN） 2-minute walk from Ueno Station Hirokoji Exit
Keisei Ueno Station 3-minute walk from Keisei Ueno Station Main Exit
|
| Phone number | Unlisted |
| Reservations | Not accepted |
| Payment |
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| Hours | 12:00-17:00 |
| Closed | Sundays from October to December only Unscheduled holidays |
| Seating | 9 counter seats |
| Smoking | All seats are nons-moking |
| Official website | https://www.instagram.com/yondaime.2017.7.22/ |
| Other information |
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※Menu contents, prices, store information, etc. are current as of August 2024.
