When the summer heat in Seoul is nearly unbearable, there’s one magical cure Koreans turn to: bingsu (빙수) – a heavenly bowl of shaved ice, topped with fruits, syrups, and sweet dreams.
And if you’re looking for one of the most memorable bingsu experiences in the city, Tokyo Bingsu (도쿄빙수) is where the magic happens.
Our Visit Tokyo Bingsu on a Blazing Hot Day
My husband and I stopped by on a scorching afternoon, hoping for something refreshing. We had heard rumors about their signature tomato bingsu, but since we’re total peach lovers, we went for their peach bingsu (복숭아 빙수) instead — and wow, it was everything we needed. Light, fruity, perfectly cold, and not overly sweet. Each spoonful melted gently with the sweetness of real peach slices and fluffy snow ice.
Even though we didn’t try the famous tomato bingsu this time, it’s definitely on our list for the next visit. I mean… tomato on bingsu? It’s a curious combo, but from what I’ve heard, it works surprisingly well — refreshing and savory-sweet.
What Makes Tokyo Bingsu So Special?
- Signature Flavors:
- 🍅 Tomato Bingsu – Their most well-known item, with fresh tomatoes and condensed milk.
- 🍑 Peach Bingsu – Light, floral, and so refreshing.
- 🍠 Sweet Potato Bingsu – For those who prefer earthy, cozy flavors.
- 🍌 Banana Bingsu, 🍓 Strawberry Bingsu, and other seasonal flavors depending on the month.
- Homemade Toppings: From the syrups to the whipped cream and garnishes, everything tastes handmade with care.
- Unique Aesthetic: Unlike trendy, Instagram-centric desserts, Tokyo Bingsu has a charming, humble, and nostalgic vibe, reminiscent of Japanese kissaten (retro cafes).
Tokyo Bingsu Location & Map
Tokyo Bingsu has several locations, but the most popular one is:
📌 Tokyo Bingsu – Seongsu Main Branch
서울 성동구 연무장길 47
Google Maps Link →
⏰ Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
🚫 No reservations / First come, first served
📌 Other locations include Mangwon and Gangnam (check Google Maps for the most updated info)
Pro Tip: Expect to Wait!
This is not your average bingsu spot. It’s a cult favorite among locals, especially on hot summer weekends. Expect a queue — but it moves fast, and the reward is worth it.
If you’re planning a visit:
- Go early or right when they open
- Or go on a weekday for shorter wait times
- No reservations allowed, so bring patience (and maybe a fan!)
Sulbing vs. Tokyo Bingsu: Which Korean Shaved Ice is Right for You?
Sulbing is Korea’s largest bingsu franchise, known for its generous portions, affordability, and wide variety of flavors like Injeolmi, mango, and chocolate. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and is easily found in many cities across Korea. Sulbing’s bingsu tends to have a denser texture, topped with rich ingredients like condensed milk, rice cakes, and fruit, making it feel more like a dessert meal.
On the other hand, Tokyo Bingsu is a boutique-style dessert café inspired by Japanese kakigori. It focuses on seasonal, delicate flavors with a soft, snowflake-like ice texture. Each bowl is crafted with attention to detail, often topped with unique ingredients like tomato or fresh peaches. Compared to Sulbing, Tokyo Bingsu offers a more refined and minimalist presentation, with smaller portion sizes and slightly higher prices.
While Sulbing is great for casual outings and satisfying a sweet tooth, Tokyo Bingsu feels more like a special treat. Sulbing wins in accessibility and variety, while Tokyo Bingsu shines in creativity and elegance. Both are delicious in their own way—just depends on your mood!
Final Thoughts
Tokyo Bingsu isn’t just about dessert — it’s about slowing down and savoring something delightfully refreshing. Whether you’re a die-hard bingsu lover or just someone trying to survive the Korean summer, this place will make your day.
I can’t wait to go back and try the famous tomato bingsu next time. Maybe I’ll bring a friend who’s skeptical about veggies in dessert — and turn them into a fan.