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Celebrating Tradition and Innovation with Toranoko

The historical essence of Japan comes to life with the introduction of "Toranoko," a new brand to honor and modernize the legacy of the renowned restaurant "Uotora-Ro" from Kusatsu, Shiga. This initiative, driven by the sixth generation heir Eiki Endo, is not just a tribute to ancient practices but a leap towards enlivening traditional Japanese culture in a more relatable, engaging format.

A Sweet Summer Experience in Tokyo

Kicking off this summer, Toranoko presents an innovative shaved ice experience inspired by Japan's rich culinary heritage. Open from July 19 in the trendy area of "Aoku Shibuya," this pop-up will offer exclusive shaved ice – a refreshing treat designed for both the local youth and travelers.

A Unique Venue

The unique location for Toranoko’s pop-up is "Michi-Naki-Michi," a venue that transcends typical izakaya concepts. This space merges traditional "wa" with contemporary street culture, embodying a value system that breaks genre boundaries. The name itself symbolizes perseverance on one’s path, a notion that resonates deeply with the legacy of Uotora-Ro. The Toranoko team aims to liberate Japanese culture from traditional molds, blending it with innovation, urban influences, and unique dining experiences.

Shaved Ice Flavors Inspired by Shiga

At Toranoko, six distinct shaved ice flavors are crafted to reflect the local ingredients and culture. The base philosophy is rooted in utilizing local Shiga produce, a nod to the long-standing preference for regional ingredients upheld by traditional Omi merchants. Each spoonful transports patrons to the heart of Japan, allowing for a culinary exploration that’s both refreshing and delightful.

Here's a look at some standout offerings:

• - Sweet Potato and Black Syrup Shaved Ice: Featuring naturally sweetened sweet potatoes paired with rich black syrup made from Okinawa’s brown sugar, this dish highlights the harmony of traditional Japanese flavors.

• - Mitarashi Shaved Ice: Inspired by the refined taste of Kansai ryotei, this dish showcases soy sauce sourced from Shiga, balancing umami and aroma in a unique reinterpretation of flavors.

• - Omi Matcha Shaved Ice: Blending Shiga’s locally grown matcha with Uji, this treat offers a deep, rich flavor synonymous with the region’s high-quality tea.

• - Black Syrup and Kinako Shaved Ice: A nostalgic blend of deep, rich black syrup and fragrant kinako, presenting a simple yet sophisticated dessert.

• - Strawberry Shaved Ice: A classic among favorites, made with luscious strawberries and accompanied by creamy milk, striking an excellent balance of sweetness and acidity.

• - Mango Shaved Ice: Using Alfonso mango, known as the king of fruits, combined with a creamy sauce for a luxurious experience of tropical flavors.

Cultural Endeavors and Future Plans

Eiki Endo expressed his sentiments about the project: "For me, Uotora-Ro represents my roots and my pride. However, continuing the family business as it is not my only goal. In our contemporary landscape, I want to create fun and casual environments that introduce young people and the world to the beauty of Japanese culture. Toranoko is not about inheritance, but about redefining the cultural narrative with an emphasis on creativity and innovation."

This summer pop-up at Michi-Naki-Michi reflects the spirit of Toranoko, aiming eventually to broaden its reach internationally and provide a platform for freely enjoying Japanese culture beyond its historical confines.

Event Details

• - Store Name: Toranoko Shaved Ice
• - Duration: From July 19, 2025, to August 31, 2025 (Open daily)
• - Hours: Weekdays 11 am – 4 pm (Last order 3:30 pm), Weekends and Holidays 11 am – 5 pm (Last order 4:30 pm)
• - Location: Michi-Naki-Michi, 1 Chome-4-8 Shoto, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0046
• - Instagram: Toranoko Instagram

Join us to witness the delightful fusion of Japanese tradition and contemporary creativity at its finest. Keep an eye on our Instagram for updates and pricing information!