If you want to try traditional wagashi in Tokyo, Usagiya in the Ueno–Okachimachi area is one shop worth knowing. Founded in 1913, Usagiya is best known for dorayaki. This familiar Japanese sweet sandwiches azuki red bean paste between two round pancakes, but what stands out here is the combination of freshly made, soft pancakes and…

When looking for wagashi in Kyoto, it is worth exploring not only boxed sweets designed to travel well, but also fresh sweets that are at their best precisely because they are meant to be eaten the same day. Tsukimochiya Naomasa, a wagashi shop founded in 1804, stands along Kiyamachi Street beside the Takase River, a…

One of the pleasures of visiting Kyoto’s shrines and temples is discovering the food traditions that have grown around them. When you experience a historic place together with something people have eaten there for generations, the city’s past feels much more tangible. If you visit Imamiya Shrine in northern Kyoto, one sweet is especially worth…

If you want to try traditional ohagi in Kyoto, Imanishiken near Gojo is one shop worth remembering. Founded in 1897, this small wagashi shop stands just a short walk from Gojo Station in a traditional Kyoto-style building. Its ohagi come in three basic varieties: chunky red bean paste, smooth red bean paste, and kinako. Each…

In Harajuku, Tokyo, “Mizuho” is renowned for its mame-daifuku (rice cakes filled with sweet bean paste), often considered among the top three mame-daifuku in the city. They’re so popular that it’s not uncommon for them to sell out by late morning. Recognized as one of the “Three Great Mame-Daifuku of Tokyo” — a title given…

If you’re visiting Tokyo and have a sweet tooth for traditional Japanese treats, trying dorayaki is a must. The city is home to many famous dorayaki shops, and one of the most beloved is Kameju, located just steps away from Asakusa’s iconic Kaminarimon Gate. This popular shop draws long lines not only on weekends and…

Ichigo Daifuku — a traditional Japanese sweet made by wrapping sweet, juicy strawberries in soft mochi and red bean paste — is a beloved treat in Japan. Tokyo is home to many well-known shops specializing in this delightful dessert, and one standout is Suikoudou, a respected confectionery with its main store in Nihonbashi. If you…

The “Strawberry Chande” from Ozawa Pastry Shop is a beloved dessert that has remained popular in Tokyo for decades. Made with juicy strawberries, rich chocolate, and whipped cream, the Strawberry Chande is known for its indulgent sweetness. It’s a longtime favorite among locals in Japan and comes highly recommended for travelers looking to enjoy something…