When it comes to premium iced desserts featuring the best of Japanese tea, historic Kyoto teahouse Itohkyuemon's parfaits and ice bars are second to none. We've introduced their gorgeous seasonal creations here at grape Japan, such as their hydrangea-themed parfait in late Spring, their beautifully decorated ice cream bars in summer, and their Japanese maple-themed parfait in fall.

Now, for the winter holiday season, Itohkyuemon is releasing a pair of cute and festive Christmas parfaits, one in their Kyoto Isetan location, and one in their Tokyo Daimaru location:

降誕祭-くりすます- Nativity / Christmas

Featuring a richly flavored hojicha roasted tea brownie, sweet and sour strawberry and framboise jelly, and a matcha and red bean tart that looks like a Christmas tree, this parfait says Christmas with every sweet bite.

  • Price: 1,430 JPY (incl. tax)
  • Available from: December 1st to 25th (subject to change without notice)
  • Where: Kyoto Isetan Kyoto Tsujiri
  • Hours: 10:00 to 20:00 (L.O. 19:30)
  • Website

クリスマスパフェ Christmas Parfait

Although not as obviously Christmassy as its Kyoto counterpart, Tokyo's "Christmas Parait" won't fail to put you in a jolly good mood. Combining the bittersweetness of matcha with the sweetness of strawberry milk jelly and the tartness of blueberry sauce and fluffy whipped cream, it's a delicious treat you'll want to savor this season.

  • Price: 1,617 JPY (incl. tax)
  • Available from: December 1st to 25th (subject to change without notice)
  • Where: Tokyo Daimaru Kyoto Tsujiri
  • Hours: 10:00 to 20:00 (L.O. 19:30)
  • Website

For those who prefer to enjoy a sweet holiday treat without a strong dose of Yuletide spirit mixed in, Itohkyuemon has another special offering this season: a hojicha version of their popular "Special Selection" Tsujiri Parfait.

"Special Selection" Hojicha Parfait

With hojicha ice cream, hojicha leaf cookie, hojicha castela and other hojicha-flavored items all in one parfait, it's a hojicha-lovers dream come true.

  • Price: 1,441 JPY (incl. tax)
  • Available from: December 1st to 31st (subject to change without notice)
  • Where: Kyoto Tsujiri Gion Main Store
  • Hours: Weekdays 11:00 to 18:00 (L.O. 17:00), Weekends 11:00 to 19:00 (L.O. 18:00)
  • Website

By - Ben K.