Head over to the frozen section of any combini in Japan, and you’re bound to be greeted by the instantly recognisable package design of Garigari-kun ice cream. Upon seeing the excited face of the ice cream’s namesake; Garigari-kun, it is hard not to be tempted by whatever tasty flavour chilled snack the package beholds.

The popular ice cream has been a hit for 4 decades, and to celebrate, the maker’s behind the ice cream; Akagi Nyuggyo, has introduced a line up of special flavours. Earlier this year, they unveiled the all new Ginger Ale and “Lemon Squash” flavours, and now, they’re adding a more traditional flavour to the mix – Ume (pickled plum).

The new flavour was decided upon within a survey that was held on the official Akagi Nyugyo website back in the autumn of last year. The survey was filled out by Garigari-kun fans, who were asked to think about what flavours it is that Garigari-kun wants to eat.
In total 49,168 votes were taken in the survey, and ume flavour took first place by more than 1,367 votes.

Garigari-kun Ume flavour ice cream

This ume-flavoured popsicle, flavoured with real ume juice, conceals a fun crunchy ume-flavoured shaved ice center.

Price: 70 yen (plus tax)
Calories: 63 kcal
Release date: 1 June 2021