My friends have told me that Hatsuyuki machines are popular on Oahu, but we saw many Fujimarca's when we visited Maui. What are the differences between, say, a Fujimarca 709 v1 and a hatsuyuki HF-500e?

Thanks!

Hi Hatsuyuki machines are fairly popular here on the islands, especially the older models however when it comes to newer machines, the Fujimarca is the most popular by far. The difference between the Fujimarca and the Hatsuyuki is pretty much similar to that of the Swan. The Hatsuyuki is Japan made, plastic enclosed, NSF approved, and in terms of shaving quality, it cuts a bit differently than that of the Fujimarca. We use to carry the HF500 models, but in our opinion if compared side by side with the similar Swan, the Swan would still be a better choice. The problem with the 500e is that the parts are quite expensive and the machine is not as "user friendly" to repair. Thanks!

I'm new to Hawaiian shave ice, and am considering opening a shop. Which would you recommend for a newbie, the Fujimarca MC-709SE or the Hatsuyuki HF-500E? I am more concerned about taste and texture of the shave ice.

They are both good machines, the biggest difference is the NSF approval which the 500E has. Many of the local stores here in hawaii prefer the 709 because the machine is cheap and relatively easy to fix. Cosmetically, the 709 has more of an old school shave ice look which many of the shops here intend to portray. Thanks