Tabelog ratingKarasawa (からさわ) is a traditional ice cream shop, or kissaten, that has been an Onomichi institution since 1939. Located right by the water, its specialty is the ice monaka: a scoop of house-made ice cream sandwiched to order between two impossibly thin, crisp wafers. The experience of eating this simple treat while looking out at the harbour is a local signature.
Guests almost universally praise the textural contrast of the monaka — its fragile crunch gives way to a smooth, pale ice cream. The signature flavour is 'tamago' (egg), made with high-quality Sera eggs, which reviewers describe as clean, light, and not overly sweet. Other flavours like matcha, sesame, and chocolate sometimes appear in cooler months, but in summer, the menu often focuses solely on the classic egg ice cream. A few visitors found the flavour a bit too mild for their liking, but most appreciate its subtlety.
The shop is small and can get busy, but service is friendly and turnover is quick. Reviewers consistently call it excellent value. In 2024–2026, guests most often paid ¥180 for the signature ice monaka. A larger cup of egg ice cream was noted at around ¥300, and a set with a cream coffee cost one visitor ¥680. The typical spend is well under ¥1,000.
- Getting There: Karasawa is a 10-minute walk from JR Onomichi Station.
- Booking: Walk-in only; reservations are not accepted. Queues are common during peak times, but they tend to move quickly.
- Payment: Credit cards are not accepted. Be prepared to pay with cash, electronic money, or a QR code payment app like PayPay.
- Seating: There are 16 seats, some offering a view of the ocean.
- Good to Know: The shop may close early if it sells out, sometimes around 17:00. In summer, the flavour selection is often limited to just the signature egg ice cream. Children are welcome. Parking is available at contracted lots, with one hour free for purchases over ¥800.
