Bingsu and kakigori are popular shaved ice desserts originating in South Korea and Japan, respectively. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct characteristics and cultural significance in their respective countries. Both bingsu and kakigori have gained popularity in Malaysia, especially in urban areas. Malaysians have embraced these refreshing desserts as part of their culinary culture, and you can find various establishments that serve bingsu and kakigori throughout the country.
Bingsu, in particular, has become quite popular in Johor recently. Many Korean dessert cafes and specialised bingsu shops have opened, offering bingsu flavours and toppings. Kakigori is also available in Johor, typically in Japanese dessert shops or stalls. While it may not be as prevalent as bingsu, kakigori has its following, particularly among those who appreciate Japanese cuisine and desserts. If you want to try this cold dessert in Johor, you can come to these top 8 best bingsu and kakigori in the state and experience them yourself!
What Are the Differences Between Bingsu and Kakigori?
Bingsu and Kakigori are both popular shaved ice desserts. Although they have almost the same concept, they still have several differences so people can tell them apart.
- Origin
Bingsu, also known as patbingsu, originated in South Korea. It has a significant presence in Korean cuisine and dessert culture. Bingsu has been enjoyed in Korea for many years and has evolved into various flavours and styles. Kakigori, on the other hand, originated in Japan. It has a long history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185). Kakigori has been a beloved dessert in Japan for centuries and is deeply rooted in Japanese culinary traditions.
- Texture
Bingsu is known for its finely shaved ice, which results in a soft and fluffy texture. The ice flakes are light and delicate, resembling freshly fallen snow. Kakigori, on the other hand, has a coarser texture than bingsu. The ice in kakigori is often shaved into larger crystals or flakes, resembling crushed ice or snowflakes. The coarser texture of kakigori gives it a slightly different mouthfeel compared to the finer texture of bingsu.
- Toppings
Bingsu toppings typically include sweetened red beans (pat), condensed milk, fresh fruit slices such as strawberries or mangoes, rice cakes (tteok), chewy jelly, and sometimes a scoop of ice cream. Kakigori, on the other hand, is traditionally served with flavoured syrups poured over the shaved ice. Popular syrup flavours include strawberry, melon, green tea, or condensed milk. Kakigori may also be garnished with sweetened red beans, fruit preserves, mochi (sticky rice cakes), or a scoop of ice cream.
8 Best Bingsu & Kakigori in Johor 2025
1. Big Bowl Ice
Big Bowl Ice is a popular dessert originating in South Korea and has gained popularity in other countries, including Malaysia. It is a variation of the traditional shaved ice dessert known as bingsu or patbingsu. Big Bowl Ice is characterised by a large bowl filled with finely shaved ice and topped with various delicious ingredients. Big Bowl Ice is often enjoyed with friends or family, as the large portion is meant to be shared.
Operating Hours: 1:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Daily)
Address: 28, Jalan Abiad 1, Taman Pelangi Jaya, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Review: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BigBowlTheCityOfIce/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigbowlicemalaysia/?hl=en
Check Info On Website2. MyKori Dessert Cafe – Taman Sutera
MyKori is a well-known dessert chain that originated in Malaysia and specialised in unique and flavorful shaved ice desserts. They offer a modern twist on the traditional Malaysian dessert, ais kacang, and the Japanese dessert, kakigori. MyKori is known for its high-quality ingredients and creative combinations, providing customers with a delightful and indulgent dessert experience. MyKori has gained popularity for its innovative flavours and Instagram-worthy presentations.
Operating Hours: 2:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Daily)
Address: 18, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/4, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300 Skudai, Johor
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Review: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MykoriTamanSuteraJB/?locale=ms_MY
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mykoridessertcafe/?hl=en
Refer Info On Website3. Iceyoo Dessert Cafe – Taman Gaya
Iceyoo is a dessert cafe offering a delightful fusion of Western snacks and a signature Korean dessert called bingsu. While the menu at Iceyoo includes a variety of Western treats, the highlight and speciality of the cafe lie in its bingsu offerings. The bingsu at Iceyoo is meticulously prepared, ensuring a fluffy and refreshing texture with a perfect balance of flavours. Whether you’re craving a taste of Western snacks or seeking the authentic experience of bingsu, Iceyoo offers a cosy and inviting environment to satisfy your dessert cravings.
Operating Hours:
1:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Tuesday – Sunday)
Closed on Monday
Address: 25, Jalan Sasa 6, Taman Gaya, 81800 Ulu Tiram, Johor
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Review: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Iceyoomalaysiatamangaya/?locale=ms_MY
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iceyoomalaysia/?hl=en
4. Shiro-Yuki Dessert Cafe
Shiro-Yuki Dessert Cafe is a charming and visually appealing dessert cafe that captures the essence of an aesthetic cafe with its nature-inspired palette. The cafe offers a serene and cosy atmosphere for customers to enjoy their sweet treats. The standout feature of Shiro-Yuki is their bingsu, a popular Korean shaved ice dessert. Their bingsu is presented with an artistic touch, as each bowl is adorned with a fluffy whipped cream topping that resembles a cloud.
Operating Hours:
12:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Tuesday – Sunday)
Closed on Monday
Address: 63B, Jalan Yahya Awal, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Review: Here
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Shiro-Yuki-Dessert-Cafe-Johor-Bahru/100084232005092/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shiroyukicafe/?hl=en
5. Bada Bing
Bada Bing is a cosy and self-established cafe that provides a range of Western dishes and a variety of desserts, including the popular Korean dessert, bingsu. Despite its small size, Bada Bing offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their meals and treats. Along with a menu featuring Western cuisine, the cafe takes pride in serving bingsu, a delightful shaved ice dessert. Whether it’s a classic bingsu flavour or a unique combination, Bada Bing aims to satisfy customers’ sweet cravings.
Operating Hours:
11:30 am – 10:00 pm (Tuesday – Sunday)
Closed on Monday
Address: 9, JALAN MUTIARA 1/4 TAMAN MUTIARA MAS Skudai, 81300 Johor Bahru, Johor
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Review: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ILOVEBADABING/
6. Jusu Korean Dessert Cafe
Jusu Korean Dessert Cafe is a delightful culinary haven that caters to dessert enthusiasts with its speciality in bingsu. With a wide array of flavours and combinations, Jusu takes pride in crafting the perfect bingsu experience for its customers. Not stopping at desserts alone, Jusu goes the extra mile by offering a selection of savoury Korean dishes, including the beloved ramyeon, a Korean-style instant noodle soup known for its rich flavours, as well as spicy chicken dishes that pack a fiery punch.
Operating Hours:
1:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Wednesday – Monday)
Closed on Tuesday
Address: No. 89, 1, Jalan Mutiara Emas 2A, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Review: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jusukoreancafe/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jusukoreancafe/?hl=en
7. Cheotnun Mount Austin Korean Dessert Cafe
Cheotnun Mount Austin Korean Dessert Cafe is a charming and cosy establishment that provides a delightful culinary experience. The cafe’s inviting interior and ambience create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. In addition to offering a range of Korean food, Cheotnun Mount Austin Korean Dessert Cafe specialises in desserts, including the popular bingsu and waffles. The bingsu at the cafe stands out for its use of fresh fruits and high-quality ingredients, ensuring a refreshing and flavorful experience.
Operating Hours: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am (Daily)
Address: 31, Jln Austin Height 8/8, Taman Austin Heights, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Review: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cheotnunjp/
8. NunBing Korean Dessert Cafe
NunBing Korean Dessert Cafe, aptly named “Eyes on Bingsu,” is a delightful cafe dedicated to the art of bingsu. With diverse flavours, NunBing offers an enticing selection of bingsu to satisfy every craving. From refreshing fruity options with fresh fruits to indulgent choices like cookies and cream or matcha bingsu, there is a delightful treat for every taste preference. NunBing takes pride in crafting their bingsu with high-quality ingredients, ensuring a delicious and visually appealing dessert experience.
Operating Hours:
1:00 pm – 11:00 pm, 12:00 pm – 12:00 am (Thursday – Tuesday)
Closed on Wednesday
Address: 98a, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/3, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300 Skudai, Johor
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Review: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NunBingKoreanDessertCafe/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nunbingkoreandessertcafe/?hl=en
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Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.asia. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
