Summer is coming and you know what that means—It’s time to get out there and eat some ice cream!

I recently found out about a great gelato shop right here in Matsumoto called Ciao. This place has been in business for many years and it’s easy to see why: Ciao makes their gelato fresh every single day, right in the shop. Most impressively, ever since they first opened, they have developed over 600 unique flavors!

At any one time, you’ll have about 20 flavors to choose from. Flavors feature fruits, nuts, coffee, cake-inspired mix-ins, cheeses, and even vegetables (last time I saw asparagus gelato!). They also have Japanese-y flavors such as green tea, azuki (red bean), kabocha (pumpkin), and more. I imagine you’ll never get bored no matter how many times you visit.

Ciao offers single, double, and even triple cups for those who can’t decide. Single cones are also available.

The only drawback is that Ciao isn’t located in the downtown area. BUT it is located right near Hirata Station, which is only two stops south from Matsumoto Station.

If you’re looking for some other great ice cream in the downtown area, check out this article about ice cream shops in Matsumoto.

Store info for Ciao
Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Closed on Tuesdays
*July and August: Open until 9 p.m., 7 days a week.