Complete Guide to GariGarikun: Classic & Limited-Time Flavors and a Factory Tour Itinerary

The defining feature of GariGarikun is its uniquely crunchy texture.
The outside is a crisp ice pop, while the inside is filled with finely shaved ice, creating a light, lively texture with every bite.
Because the outer ice pop keeps the ice inside from melting too easily, it is the perfect combination of shaved ice and an ice pop, letting you enjoy that crunchy texture to the very end even on a hot day.

In addition to the classic Soda flavor, it has featured fruit-based and seasonal flavors as well as surprising varieties such as stew and Napolitan.
With around three to five new flavors released each year, many GariGarikun fans eagerly look forward to what comes next.
Incidentally, when developing new flavors, not only the product development department but also members from various other departments within the company gather to share ideas.

As an ice treat children can buy with their allowance, GariGarikun has continued to maintain an affordable price ever since it was first launched in 1981.
The character GariGarikun, shown on the packaging, is also a familiar face to just about everyone in Japan, and he has become one of the symbols of summer.

Among the many flavors, the one that many fans look forward to every year is Pear.
Although it is a limited-time flavor, Pear is so popular that it feels almost like a standard flavor, and its defining feature is a juicy freshness that feels as if you were biting into a real pear.
With its crisp texture, gentle fruit sweetness, and fragrant pear aroma, it is an extremely popular flavor with a refreshing finish.

Loved by everyone from children to adults, Grape has a well-balanced sweetness and acidity that never grows tiring.
It is known for its juicy fruitiness along with a refreshing finish, making it easy to enjoy even in hot weather.

Chocolate Mint, which combines the refreshing coolness of mint with the sweetness of chocolate, is one of the trend flavors that creates buzz every year.
Chocolate mint is generally associated with creamy ice cream, but with GariGarikun, the icy texture and minty freshness come together pleasantly, creating a finish that feels even more refreshing.
Its unique balance has earned praise and is said to have won support even from devoted chocolate mint fans, sometimes nicknamed the “Chocomint crowd.”

First, head to Honjo Station on the JR Takasaki Line.
Because Honjo Senbon Sakura “5S” Factory is some distance from the station, you will need to continue by taxi or bus.
If you take a taxi, the ride takes about 20 minutes. If you take the bus, you can use Asahi Bus and get off in front of the factory.

Once you arrive at the factory, first give the name on your reservation at the reception desk.
Because you will be touring the actual factory where GariGarikun is made, the tour begins after you receive an explanation of important rules and how to spend your time inside the facility.
From the entrance onward, GariGarikun motifs are scattered throughout the site, making it impossible not to feel excited.

The factory tour lasts a total of 90 minutes and includes a history exhibit on GariGarikun, a look at the production line, and tasting time.
From feeling nostalgic as you look back at earlier GariGarikun products to learning fun facts and the secrets behind its deliciousness on the production line, it is a highly satisfying experience.
The final highlight of the tour is the tasting corner, which is especially popular with children.
With more than 10 varieties of ice treats available, you can go back for more as long as time remains.
Share with family or friends and look for your favorite GariGarikun.

After the tour ends, head to the shop on the second floor to look for souvenirs.
There are many factory-exclusive goods available only here, and another nice point is that, like the ice treats themselves, the prices are easy on the wallet.
Find your favorite item and take home a memory of GariGarikun.

Because the GariGarikun factory tour is run by lottery, only those who win can attend.
The reservation application period runs from the 1st to the 20th of the month two months before your desired visit month.
For example, if you want to visit in July, the application period is from May 1 to May 20.
Competition is intense because of its popularity, but why not give it a try with the same playful spirit as hoping for a winning stick from GariGarikun?

These stylish GariGarikun original T-shirts are designed to be worn as everyday clothing.
They come in a wide range of sizes, from children’s to adults’, making them a great choice for matching parent-and-child outfits as well.
Another reason for their popularity is the affordable price, starting at around 1,000 yen.

This bath additive, which looks just like a real GariGarikun, is an item that children absolutely love.
As the bath additive dissolves, a miniature mascot shaped like a GariGarikun ice treat appears from inside.
Because it is not limited to the factory, it can also be purchased at variety stores and similar shops even if you do not win the factory tour lottery.

Stationery items such as pencils, erasers, and stickers, which can be used at school or in the office, are also popular.
Some are inexpensive little items costing under 100 yen, making it easy to end up buying more than you planned.
With GariGarikun cheering you on, your studying or work might just go a little more smoothly!