Kinkakuji is a Zen Buddhist World Heritage-listed temple in Kyoto, Japan that is known as the Golden Pavilion, as its top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf—in keeping with this dazzling feature, Kinkakuji serves a unique ice cream topping.
The 'Kinkaku Soft Ice Cream' itself is made from stone-ground powdered green tea, milk and vanilla bean flavor and filled with a rice cake ball at the center of a scoop. The entire treat is dressed with a generously sized pure gold leaf flake and wrapped in a delicate washi paper that was specifically crafted for this purpose.
As visitors to Kinkakuji might expect, the luxurious treat is slightly more costly than the usual ice cream treat and sells for ¥ 950 or roughly $9.40.
Gilded Ice Cream Cones
At Its Gilded Temple, Kinkakuji Serves a Gold Leaf Ice Cream Topping
Trend Themes
1. Gold Leaf Food Toppings - The trend of using gold leaf as a luxurious food topping presents opportunities for innovative and upscale culinary experiences.
2. Gourmet Soft-serve Ice Cream - The rising trend of gourmet soft-serve ice cream offers chances for creative flavor combinations and unique toppings.
3. Cultural Food Experiences - The demand for cultural and immersive food experiences opens doors for culinary establishments to incorporate traditional elements into their offerings.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - The food and beverage industry can explore the use of gold leaf as a premium food topping and cater to consumers seeking luxury dining experiences.
2. Hospitality and Tourism - The hospitality and tourism industry can promote unique culinary experiences like gourmet soft-serve ice cream to attract and delight visitors.
3. Art and Craft - The art and craft industry can capitalize on the demand for specialized paper like washi paper that is crafted for specific purposes, such as wrapping luxurious food items like ice cream.