🎎 Ice Room White Snow Festivalひむろしらゆき祭

Since the Heijō-kyō period in Nara, ice blocks made in winter were stored in ice houses and presented to the imperial court, establishing a deep-rooted connection with ice. The "Ice House White Snow Festival" began in 2014 in the Kasugano area of Nara City, focusing on shaved ice as its theme. The festival takes place at the Ice House Shrine located in Nara City. The shrine is dedicated to ice deities such as Tōkeiinō Ōyamatsumi and Nukata no Ōnakanushi, and is highly respected by ice makers and refrigerator manufacturers. During the Ice House White Snow Festival, pure ice, which takes a long time to produce, is used for ceremonial offerings and for making shaved ice, marking the celebration. Every year, famous shaved ice and dessert shops from all over the country participate in this festival, introducing specially developed limited-edition shaved ice for the event, allowing visitors to taste unique flavors. The shaved ice is provided at the "Nara Park Bus Terminal." Advance purchase of "pre-sale tickets" (donation sponsorship vouchers) is required, as they are sold out quickly. If there are specific shops or shaved ice you wish to try, please be sure to check in advance and make early reservations.

The shaved ice festival held in Nara, which has a deep historical connection with ice since ancient times. Inside the Hiyoshi Shrine, rituals are conducted to offer shaved ice (general public can only observe). Every year, well-known Japanese shops participate in the shaved ice venue. "Advance tickets" (donation sponsorship vouchers) are sold out quickly, so early purchase is recommended.