Hanshin Department Store Umeda Main Store

In Japan, summer is for fireworks – and kakigori, as the lip-smacking shaved ice dessert is the ultimate remedy for the punishing heat. This season, Sesame Street Market, the franchise’s official merchandise store and café in Hanshin Umeda Main Store, is turning our childhood nostalgia into adorable icy cool treats. The lineup features seven beloved Sesame Street characters – Elmo, Cookie Monster, Big Bird, Oscar, Abby, Ernie and Bert – plus a special rainbow version. Each kakigori is made with natural spring water ice and syrups free of artificial colouring, plus a variety of toppings including fresh fruit, ice cream, sorbet, red beans, rice cakes and coconut. You can expect a vibrant mix of colours and textures. Highlights include Ernie (chestnut and hojicha roasted green tea), Oscar (matcha and milk), Big Bird (mango and coconut), Elmo (strawberry and milk) and Bert (custard pudding syrup and caramel sauce). Note that the first release (June 25–August 31) and the second release (September 1–30) will each feature a different set of characters. Prices range from ¥1,480 to ¥1,980.