The Japanese metalworking town of Tsubame Sanjo has taken a unique approach to boosting tourism to the region, they’re offering visitors iron-flaked ice cream. 

Set between Tsubame City and Sanjo City in the prefecture of Niigata, the Japanese town has been hit hard by the global tourism downturn brought on by the global coronavirus pandemic.

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In an attempt to revive tourism to the area and attract more visitors, local artisans have joined forces with gelato expert Yasuyuki Sakuma to create a one-of-a-kind flavour experience: iron-flaked ice cream. 

The quirky frozen treat is aimed at encouraging adventurous foodies and dessert lovers to visit. 

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It’s said to be surprisingly enjoyable. Comments from visiting gourmands have ranged from “much tastier than I expected” to “very sweet,” with another calling the iron-flaked ice cream “an unexpected combination that rocks.”

The iron-flaked ice cream is available exclusively at Gelataria Coco in Tsubame Sanjo for $3.70 USD (around $4.80 AUD).

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