International Kakigori Guide
Bring Japanese Kakigori to Your Business.
TAKASO supplies Japanese-made commercial Kakigori machines to customers around the world.
When using a Kakigori machine overseas, it is important to choose a model that matches not only the style of Kakigori you want to make, but also the voltage, safety requirements, and import conditions of the country or region where it will be used.
This guide covers everything from choosing a machine to ice preparation, replacement blades, maintenance, and international shipping—information useful both before and after installation.
For international orders, please contact us through our dedicated inquiry form. After confirming the products, quantities, country or region of use, and shipping destination, we will prepare a quotation.
Choose the Information You Need
Find the guide you need, from machine selection and operation to international shipping.
Ice Preparation & Temperature Control
For Light, Fluffy Kakigori
Learn the difference between block ice and loose ice, how to temper the ice, and our recommended shaving temperature of -5°C to -2°C.
View the Ice Preparation Guide →Blades & Maintenance
To Maintain Consistent Shaving Performance
Learn how to use the blade correctly, when to replace it, how to change it, and how to store it safely.
View the Blade & Maintenance Guide →International Shipping & Export
For Customers Purchasing a Kakigori Machine from Japan
Review the international shipping process, freight quotations, customs duties, local taxes, and key import considerations.
Learn More About International Shipping →3 Things to Check Before Choosing a Kakigori Machine
Block-Ice vs. Loose-Ice Machines
If you want to make light, fluffy Japanese Kakigori with a delicate melt-in-the-mouth texture, we recommend a machine designed for block ice.
Machines that use loose ice or ice cubes are easier to supply with ice, but the shaved texture and finished result differ from block-ice machines.
On TAKASO’s international site, we currently focus mainly on Kakigori machines designed for block ice.
For more details on block ice, loose ice, and ice preparation, see our Ice Preparation Guide.
Gear Drive vs. Belt Drive
Block-ice Kakigori machines mainly use either a gear-drive or belt-drive system.
Here is a quick introduction to two representative series.
SI-100 Series
The SI-100 Series uses a gear-drive system. It efficiently transfers motor power and is a good choice when thin shaving performance is a priority. The SI-100S is a representative domestic Japanese model, while the SI-100E is available for overseas use.
Cygne
Cygne is a block-ice Kakigori machine that uses a belt-drive system. It is known for relatively quiet operation and shaves ice using a different drive mechanism from the SI-100 Series. International specifications include models such as the cygne SI-150CBK and cygne SI-150C(E).
Always Check Voltage and Safety Standards
When using a Kakigori machine overseas, not every model will be suitable. Choose a model only after checking the local power supply and any required safety or sanitation standards.
Voltage
100V / 115V / 220V
- Electric Kakigori machines for the Japanese domestic market are generally designed for 100V.
- TAKASO offers international models in specifications such as 115V and 220V.
- Using a machine on a power supply that differs from its rated voltage may cause motor failure or other damage.
- The manufacturer does not recommend using a voltage transformer as a workaround.
Safety & Sanitation Standards
CE / NSF / CB, etc.
- Required safety and sanitation standards vary by country and region.
- Some international specifications are available with compliance such as CE, NSF, or CB.
- Requirements vary by model and destination, so please confirm them before purchasing.
- We also recommend checking with the relevant local authorities, health agencies, customs office, or other competent bodies.
If you already know the country or region where the machine will be used, we can help identify suitable models.
For Better Japanese Kakigori
The final texture of Kakigori depends on more than the machine itself. The condition of the ice and blade are also important.
Prepare the Ice Before Shaving
Block ice straight from the freezer is very hard. Temper it before shaving; TAKASO uses -5°C to -2°C as a guideline.
View the Ice Preparation & Temperature Guide →
Blade Condition Also Affects the Result
Blade condition directly affects shaving performance. Learn correct blade use, replacement, storage precautions, and why keeping a spare blade is useful.
View the Blade & Maintenance Guide →International Shipping
TAKASO can ship Kakigori machines, replacement blades, and other eligible items internationally. We provide individual quotations based on the products, quantities, and destination.
Inquiry
Use our inquiry form to tell us the products and quantities you need, the country or region of use, and the shipping destination.
We Review Your Request
TAKASO will confirm the requested products, quantities, shipping destination, and required specifications.
Quotation & Invoice
We confirm product prices and international shipping costs, then provide a quotation and invoice.
International Shipping
After the required procedures are completed, Kakigori machines are shipped internationally mainly via FedEx.
Please Include the Following in Your Inquiry
- Requested products and quantities
- Destination country or region
- Postal code and address
- Intended use
- Any other questions
Customs Duties & Local Taxes
Any customs duties, local taxes, and customs-clearance-related fees charged on import are the customer’s responsibility.
We Also Recommend a Spare Blade
Replacement blades and maintenance parts may take time to arrive overseas. We recommend ordering a spare blade together with your Kakigori machine.
Questions About Exporting or International Models?
Contact Us Anytime
“Which machine is best for making light, fluffy Kakigori?”
“Which Kakigori machine can I use in my country?”
“I’m not sure which replacement blade fits my machine.”
We are happy to help with questions like these.
For international orders, please contact us through our dedicated inquiry form. After confirming the country or region of use, requested products and quantities, and shipping destination, we will provide a quotation and invoice.
Request an International Quote / Consultation
