Okashi no Taiyo in Chiba unveils Kuzu Jewels, Japan’s ice that changes as it thaws
Ice cream that barely melts? In Japan, even frozen desserts are designed to linger.
A longtime confectionery shop in Chiba Prefecture has transformed its popular Kuzu Jewels (葛ジュエルズ) into jewel-like cubes for summer, turning one of Japan’s oldest traditional ingredients into a strikingly modern sweet.
Made with kuzu—a starch long used in traditional Japanese confectionery—Kuzu changes texture as it slowly thaws. Straight from the freezer, it’s crisp like a sorbet. A few minutes later, it becomes pleasantly chewy. Leave it a little longer, and it softens into a silky, jelly-like bite. Instead of racing against melting ice cream, you choose the moment that’s most enjoyable.
This year’s collection combines four flavors in one colorful box: strawberry, mikan citrus, peach with chunky fruit, and ramune, Japan’s nostalgic fizzy soda flavor with crunchy candy pieces. The result looks less like a frozen dessert and more like a box of edible gems.
Packed in a resealable pouch, Kuzu can be enjoyed one piece at a time or shared with family and friends. It is also available through the shop’s online store.
Rooted in a centuries-old Japanese ingredient but reimagined with contemporary design, Kuzu captures something Japan does especially well: making tradition feel unexpectedly fresh.
Kuzu Jewels (KUZU JEWELS)
・Release date: July 17, 2026 *Summer limited edition. Available while supplies last.
・Sold by: Okashi no Taiyo (293 Iigura, Sosa, Chiba, Japan)
・Available at: Okashi no Taiyo stores and online shop
・Online shop (Japanese only): https://www.rakuten.co.jp/etaiyou/
・Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okashi_taiyo/
