Iconic popsicle shop Hokkyoku has been hawking its simple but oh-so-satisfying iced treats in the Ebisubashisuji shopping arcade since 1945, having been established right after the end of World War II. While select varieties of their dainty pops can usually be found at some department stores and various event stalls, the full selection of 10 flavours – from milk, cocoa and pineapple to azuki beans – is available only here.
Handmade entirely from natural ingredients and sweetened lightly with coarse granulated sugar, Hokkyoku’s pops contain some dairy and are creamier than your usual juice-based popsicles. They sell by the thousands year round, with the longest lines of course forming during Osaka’s blazing summer.
Note the round, wooden popsicle sticks, inserted at a slight angle to prevent melt from the popsicle from dripping down on your hands: made from high-grade hinoki cypress, these exude a pleasant aroma and are popular collectibles among local kids.
We recommend checking the shop’s official website before visiting, as opening hours may change on short notice.