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Founded in 1969, this traditional Japanese confectionery shop is located near the Naritasan Fudoson at "Kori-en" Station. Recently featured on TV, it has become even more popular. During the New Year's period, it is a must-visit spot for those visiting Naritasan Fudoson, leading to crowded stores and the high likelihood of selling out of their signature products.
The area around Kori-en may be unfamiliar to some, but it is pronounced as "Ko-ri-en" in Osaka, where many difficult kanji readings are common. This station is well-known for Naritasan, and many people from Osaka visit for worship. A local star from this area is Toshifumi Fujimoto, also known as "Fujimon," who attended elementary and middle school near Naritasan. Two stations away is Hirakata Park, a popular amusement park that attracts 1.3 million visitors annually and is currently operated by Junichi Okada. Okada, who is from Hirakata City, is the third generation to manage the park.
Naritasan is a historic temple near Narita Airport in Chiba Prefecture, founded in 940 AD after the suppression of the Heiji Rebellion. It is the head temple of the Chisan School of Shingon Buddhism and a center of worship for Fudoson believers. Many prominent figures such as Minamoto no Yoritomo, Tokugawa Mitsukuni, Ninomiya Sontoku, and Ichikawa Danjuro have worshipped at Naritasan. With over 10 million visitors annually, it ranks second in the country for New Year's visits, with 3.11 million visitors.
The belief in Naritasan Fudoson is ancient and widespread, with devotees across the country. In Osaka, there was a Naritasan Fudo-do near Suidobashi "Mizukake Fudo," and in 1934, a branch temple was established in Osaka, leading to the development of the area. The area of Kori, selected for its association with the "demon's gate" in Osaka and the "back demon's gate" in Kyoto, was chosen to enshrine Fudo Myoo of Naritasan as a guardian deity, praying for the area's prosperity.
During the New Year's period, Naritasan Fudoson attracts 750,000 visitors, with 2 million visitors annually. In this residential area, roads are closed, bus services are increased, and police officers regulate traffic, transforming the quiet neighborhood into a bustling area during the New Year.
Their popular items include Mochi Pie (5 pieces for 1,185 yen) and Strawberry Daifuku (3 pieces for 777 yen) during the New Year period. The Mochi Pie features 144 layers of stick-shaped pie filled with chewy layered mochi and sweet red bean paste, topped with black sesame. The homemade red bean paste is a highlight, delicately balanced with the crispy layers of pie, creating a light and delicious treat. The Strawberry Daifuku, with a white bean paste coating and a whole strawberry inside, offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, making it a must-try item.