■Visit Date: April 11, 2021 ■Items Received: Refer below ■MEMO I visited on April 11, 2021. I couldn't find the movie pamphlet I wanted in Kawaramachi the day before, so I decided to come to Nijo for lunch and shopping. I successfully purchased the pamphlet at TOHO Cinemas and on the way, my wife and I visited this shop that had caught our eye. Although it is a traditional Japanese sweets shop, they offer a wide variety of dorayaki. This time, I purchased five different types: authentic warabi mochi strawberry custard dorayaki, nama yatsuhashi-filled dorayaki, matcha cream dorayaki, and sakura cream dorayaki. All of them were incredibly delicious. It was a joy to be able to enjoy the seasonal flavors and the variety of dorayaki. There are also dorayaki that need to be refrigerated, such as the strawberry custard dorayaki, making it difficult to choose. The flavors of the ingredients shine through, the dorayaki dough is not too sweet, and it perfectly matches the fillings. It was a delicious dorayaki. The warabi mochi is also cut into large pieces, providing a satisfying eating experience. It is delicious and makes for a slightly luxurious snack. It would also make a great gift. ■Blog https://ay-style.net/?p=59112

I attended a hands-on event in Chukyo Ward where we made traditional Japanese sweets. We changed into slippers on the second floor, sanitized our hands, and listened to the detailed instructions of the skilled craftsman on how to make the sweets. It was fun and enjoyable. Finally, we received Yatsuhashi manju and green tea to enjoy. We were able to take home the two sweets we made as samples.

Located about a 5-minute walk from JR or subway "Nijo Station", Nijo Castle Furuta is a place I have visited a few times. The current owner, who is also a second-generation traditional Japanese confectionery maker, is a certified first-class artisan in both traditional Japanese confectionery and Western-style confectionery. The shop is known for its signature dorayaki, and also offers a Kyoto confectionery making experience on the third floor. The small shop offers a wide range of seasonal sweets, from traditional Japanese confectionery to creative creations that incorporate elements of Western confectionery. The most famous item is the hand-baked dorayaki with various variations. This time, I bought a few pieces of the following dorayaki to take home: - Sakura Cream Dorayaki (230 yen): A unique dorayaki with a Western twist, featuring a harmonious combination of sakura bean paste and cream. The quality exceeded my expectations, and it is a high-level treat available only until mid-April. - Chestnut Dorayaki (210 yen): A classic dorayaki with chestnut filling, available year-round. While not outstanding, it provides a satisfying experience. In addition to these, a variety of traditional Japanese and Western-style sweets are available for takeout only. The shop also offers a Kyoto confectionery making experience on the upper floor, which can be reserved on the same day. The "Sakura Cream Dorayaki" until mid-April left a lasting impression, and other items like "Strawberry Daifuku", "Sakura Mochi", "Strawberry Custard Dorayaki", and the Western-style confectionery "Kyoto Cherry Blossom" caught my eye with their packaging.

We visited "Yoshihiro," a traditional Japanese confectionery making experience near Kyoto's Nijo Station. There were about 6 other groups besides ours, and the workshop on the 3rd floor was full. We started by disinfecting our hands and then began the activity. A skilled confectioner explained the process to us in detail. We were making seasonal sweets inspired by pine trees and plum blossoms. Each of us had a sample to follow. For the pine tree, we kneaded the sweet bean paste to give it a sticky texture and shaped it into a pine tree. We added branches, snow effects, and used a tool to create lines to represent the tree. The delicate work had everyone cheering each other on and having fun. For the plum blossom, we layered two types of bean paste and used a spoon to create the petals of the flower. It was a nerve-wracking task, but as we made cuts with the spoon, the petals took shape. After completing the activities, we had a photo session, enjoyed matcha tea, and sampled the traditional sweets. Lastly, the confectioner demonstrated making a beautiful orange-shaped sweet. The event ended with cheers and applause from everyone. Despite our varying skills, we all completed our creations and had a great time. On the first floor, there were baked and fresh confections for sale, as well as DIY confectionery kits. It was a delightful experience creating lovely sweets and catching a glimpse of Kyoto's 300-year-old confectionery history. It was a memorable and enjoyable experience.

On December 17, 2015, in Kyoto, during my trip, I had a hands-on experience making traditional Japanese confectionery at Kyoto's "Yoshihiro" and I had already decided on the day to go. I referred to the "Top 10 Recommended Japanese Confectionery Making Experiences in Kyoto" compiled by Akemiyuru on RETRIP and made a reservation via email at the Japanese confectionery shop Yoshihiro. I received a confirmation email from the shop (my first choice of 11:00 was already booked by a group, so I got the second choice of 9:15), along with a map to the shop and a 10% discount on products purchased in-store. From Kyoto Station to Nijo Station on the Saga-Arashiyama Line, it was just 2 stops and 6 minutes. I got a little lost coming from the station, but once I found my way, it was only about a 5-minute walk. I paid the fee on the first floor, took off my shoes, put on slippers, and went to the venue on the second floor. There were about 10 students on a school trip from Niigata sitting there. I put my belongings on a shelf, washed my hands in a tub of hot water, had disinfectant applied, and was ready to go. Oh, and after washing my hands, I made sure not to touch my camera or anything else. When I opened the box, I saw the sample product and materials set out, so I asked my friend who arrived later to take a photo for me. The one teaching us was the shop owner, Mr. Mizuuchi, who patiently explained and demonstrated each step. But I was having a hard time getting it right. Making cuts in the plum with a spoon was a bit rough – my friend who came with me did it really well. Maybe I lack talent or maybe I'm just clumsy... Next, I tried making pine trees. I was told to make them into a stick shape using a little bit of the white material... but wait, everyone used up all of it. I still had some left (^_^;) The only thing I was praised for was the blending technique – I listened carefully and looked at my hands while doing it, but it still turned out a bit rough. Everyone else did a great job. We put the finished sweets in a case, took a photo for our certificate, and then waited for the sweets and matcha to be prepared. Mr. Mizuuchi showed us a demonstration of his wagashi-making skills. The spatula had a triangular shape with sharp angles, a slightly wider part, grooves, and a small round concave part with tiny grains. He wrapped the anko paste in the kneaded mixture, made patterns with the spatula while shifting it neatly, sprinkled powdered sugar on it, and made a "mandarin orange" shape. Just when I thought we were done, he wrapped the mandarin orange we made earlier in another kneaded mixture, added bumps, made cuts, and peeled the outer layer to create a "mandarin orange being peeled" shape – it was amazing! The Yatsuhashi manju, combined with matcha, was delicious. The fresh sweets I took home were not the prettiest in shape, but they were incredibly delicious. I had a great time and would love to go back again. You can also purchase a DIY experience set through mail order.

I went to experience making traditional Japanese sweets. It was quite challenging, but I was taught carefully and it turned out to be a fun experience.

It's a refreshing pastry shop. I was curious about the homemade dorayaki, but it's kind of small. I bought it as a souvenir, so I'll write my thoughts after trying it.

Established for over 50 years, Kyoto Nijo Kashiya Yoshihiroseika offers a dessert called "Kyoto Matcha Sweet Potato (Whole)" for 1,050 yen. This dessert is made with sweet potatoes from Kagoshima prefecture and uses Uji matcha, resulting in a moist and rich treat. While there is also a smaller cup version available, the whole cake looks more impressive. Priced at 1,000 yen, it offers good value. When you open the package, you'll notice the strong aroma of matcha. The packaging is a deep green color, but once you take it out of the box and remove the plastic wrap, the cake itself is brown due to the baking process. When sliced, a beautiful dark green color is revealed. In terms of taste, it's a typical sweet potato dessert with the added fragrance of matcha and a slight bitterness. I followed the instructions and microwaved it for 30 seconds, which enhanced the matcha aroma and the flavor of the sweet potato. While it's typically enjoyed chilled in the summer, I found it much more delicious when warmed up.

At this shop, you can actually experience making traditional Japanese sweets, including making the same type of fresh confectionery as shown in the image. The image serves as a model for what you can create. This type of experience is unique to Kyoto, where many traditional Japanese confectionery techniques are still preserved. Adding such an experience to your sightseeing itinerary in Kyoto would surely make your trip even more enjoyable.

Located about a 5-minute walk from JR or subway "Nijo Station", this traditional Japanese confectionery shop is known for its wide variety of dorayaki and wagashi making experience classes. The second-generation owner is a certified first-class wagashi artisan and during a visit to the innovative kaiseki restaurant "Nijojo Furuta", we learned that the young proprietress is also a skilled wagashi craftsman from her family. Upon entering the shop, you will find a small sales space with a selection of baked goods. The dorayaki here come in 12 varieties annually, including classics and seasonal specials. During our visit in October, three types of dorayaki were on display. We were assisted by an elderly lady, and we decided to take out the following three varieties: - Chestnut Dorayaki (year-round classic) - 210 yen (October 2016) The red bean paste inside was basic, but the fluffy dough had a strong flavor. Overall, it was a well-balanced and delicious dorayaki with a traditional taste. - Mont Blanc Dorayaki (autumn-winter limited edition) - 210 yen (October 2016) The dough had a slightly moist and fluffy texture with a hint of Western influence. It contained chestnut paste and a cream filling, creating a harmonious blend reminiscent of a Mont Blanc dessert. It was satisfying as a Western-style dorayaki, and the ample deliciousness was evident. - Dorayaki with Niki (Japanese cinnamon) Senbei (year-round classic) - 210 yen (October 2016) I was unsure if dorayaki and senbei would go well together, but the unexpected balance between the Japanese cinnamon flavor and red bean paste was surprisingly delicious. On the first floor, there was an elderly lady who kindly explained the different options, creating a pleasant atmosphere for choosing. Upstairs, they hold Kyoto confectionery making experiences several times a day, and same-day reservations are possible. Aside from dorayaki, their specialty is the "Senbei Manju".

I had a wagashi making experience with two friends. We made wagashi under the guidance of an instructor, and got to taste a small portion of matcha tea for an additional fee. The taste was delicious! We also received a group photo as a souvenir.

I did not go there myself, but it was given to me by a friend. The gift I received was a "Strawberry Custard Dorayaki". The dorayaki skin was soft and moist. Inside, there was a whole strawberry and a custard with just the right amount of sweetness. The combination of the sweet and sour strawberry and the custard was perfect, so I couldn't resist having one. Ahh♡ Once again, I was introduced to delicious food in Kyoto. By the way, the expiration date is on the day it arrived. Since it was a gift, the price is unknown.

Once again, a souvenir from my sister in Kyoto♪ This time, it's dorayaki from a shop near Nijo Castle♪ Even though it's quite far from my sister's house, she rode her bike to buy it for me. Thank you♥ My friend in Kyoto also loves this popular dorayaki. They have various types, from the traditional red bean paste to different western-style dorayaki. Among them, my sister's favorite is this one! The Mont Blanc dorayaki. She's really hooked on it. It's a bit small but the fluffy dough is delicious. The chestnut paste with a hint of liqueur? Cream? Sandwiched with whipped cream, it's so tasty♪♪ I can see why she's addicted to it♥ It goes well with both black tea and Japanese tea. It's a great dorayaki focused on the filling. Thank you for the treat.

In November 2015, I visited the store again to buy some cake from Bonzo, but unfortunately it was closed. So I remembered this nearby store. I bought a sweet potato snack (190 yen), a chocolate snack (190 yen), and also the delicious Mont Blanc dorayaki that I had last time. These snacks are perfect to enjoy at home. I think the Mont Blanc dorayaki is my favorite! In September 2015, I visited this store for the first time. It is a quiet traditional Japanese sweets shop located near JR Nijo Station. I found this store in the area and decided to try their Mont Blanc dorayaki, which looked delicious. Inside the store, there were various sweets such as dorayaki, ohagi, and yatsuhashi manju. I bought the Mont Blanc dorayaki (230 yen) and the chestnut dorayaki (210 yen). Since they had a shelf life of 2 days, I tried them as soon as I got home. The Mont Blanc dorayaki had chestnut dough and cream sandwiched inside. When I tasted it, it felt like I was eating a Mont Blanc cake, it was quite sweet but delicious. It would make a great gift to bring to someone. The chestnut dorayaki had plenty of sweet bean paste and chestnuts inside, it tasted just as I expected. I recommend the Mont Blanc dorayaki over this one. The store also offers traditional Japanese sweets making experience. It is conveniently located near the station and would be worth a visit, especially for tourists.

<About the Shop> Established in September 1958, this traditional Japanese confectionery shop is now run by the second-generation owner, Keisuke Minai, who holds a national qualification as a first-class confectionery craftsman. <Product> Kyoto Matcha Sweet Potato (Large) - Price: 1080 yen including tax - Diameter: Approximately 12cm (including cup about 14.5cm) - Height: Approximately 3cm (including cup about 3.5cm) - Shelf Life: 30 days from the manufacturing date This Kyoto-style sweet combines sweet potato with Kyoto matcha. While there are individual-sized portions available, I tried the whole size (size 4) this time. It comes in an oven-safe paper cup. The enclosed paper suggests warming it in the microwave for about 40 seconds to enhance the flavor, so I tried half at room temperature and the other half warmed. The surface is a uniform dark brown, but the inside is a deep matcha green. The texture is dense and moist, typical of sweet potato confections, with a rich sweet potato flavor. Warming it up lightens the texture slightly but intensifies the matcha flavor. If you prefer a rich, moist texture, try it at room temperature; for a stronger matcha taste, warm it up. Personally, I enjoyed it more at room temperature for its richness.

Kyoto. It's my favorite place. Exploring is so much fun. There are a lot of trendy but not-so-tasty restaurants, but there are also incredibly delicious ones. It's fun to find them. This time, a walking companion and important acquaintance said they wanted to eat Mont Blanc dorayaki! So off we went for a walk. This shop, a little bit away, where exactly is it... A simple shop adjacent to the production site. We got Mont Blanc dorayaki and chestnut daifuku! Mont Blanc dorayaki... Hmm, delicious but Mont Blanc dorayaki. I think I prefer the chestnut daifuku~ Japanese sweets are nice.

I made a reservation for a traditional Japanese confectionery experience from 15:15 on a weekday. As the time passed 3:00, customers started arriving one after another. Our group consisted of about 10 people. The first floor of the shop was a small traditional Japanese confectionery store with a typical storefront. We checked in on the first floor and were then guided to the third floor. We took off our shoes on the second floor and wore slippers to go up to the third floor. We left our belongings, washed our hands, and then sanitized them thoroughly. They were very meticulous about hygiene, probably to prevent food poisoning. We found a set of materials prepared on the table. A young woman was there to teach us. She seemed to be very skilled. First, we made a cherry blossom-shaped confectionery. We molded and shaped the ingredients in the set. I didn't quite understand the process, but I followed her instructions, which didn't go very smoothly. The second one was a rose-shaped confectionery, which progressed quickly. There was a sample to follow, but even then, it was quite challenging. We spent an hour making two confectioneries. We could take home four traditional Japanese confectioneries, including the samples. We had to eat the ones we made on the same day as they were perishable. After the lesson, a craftsman showed us his skills, followed by serving us matcha and confectionery. The experience fee was relatively high, but it was a valuable traditional Japanese confectionery experience. I didn't know how traditional Japanese confectioneries were made, but many mysteries were solved, and my perspective on them changed. I went with my boyfriend because I wanted to do it, but it turned out he was better at it... He said, "It was really worth going!" when we left. When we got home, we cut them into two. Comparing them to the samples, the professional's confectioneries were clearly better. I was really impressed. On our way back, we bought some confectioneries from the shop. The strawberry mousse dorayaki, which was a seasonal limited edition, was very delicious! They also had a unique dorayaki with Yatsuhashi inside, which was just okay... The strawberry daifuku at the shop looked very delicious too. However, despite offering such a great traditional Japanese confectionery experience, they didn't have much for sale. Also, as a side note, the lady at the shop apparently does voice training and sometimes sings solo as she is a voice trainer for a choir.

Near Nijo Station, there is a traditional Japanese confectionery shop that is beloved by the local community. The shop has a welcoming atmosphere and offers a variety of single sweets for purchase. There are also seasonal limited edition items available. I decided to try the "Chocolate Dorayaki" which is a unique Valentine's Day gift option that seems to be popular. I also purchased a few other items, including the "Hoji Tea Truffle" which was a hit when I received it last year. The "Chocolate Dorayaki" is a luxurious treat with a generous amount of cream and a hidden chocolate filling. The outer layer is soft, and the first bite has a slightly strong rum scent, which may be a matter of personal preference. It is quite satisfying to eat. The "Sakura" sweet is a simple treat made with cherry blossom paste inside a soft dough. It makes you crave a cup of tea. The "Sakura Mochi" and "Strawberry Daifuku" were packaged together, and I noticed that the cherry blossom scent had transferred to the strawberry daifuku slightly. The strawberry daifuku stood out with its juicy strawberry and light sweet bean paste combination. The cherry blossom mochi had a smooth sweet bean paste. The "Mitara Dango" was light and had a mild flavor. The "Taste Comparison" treat served as a tea snack during my visit was delicious. It was a small treat packed with the deliciousness of sweet bean paste. And finally, the "Hoji Tea Truffle" wrapped in mochi had a strong hoji tea flavor that hits a couple of seconds after taking a bite. It is my favorite item at this shop. Although it is a bit pricey at 1260 yen for a pack of six, it is definitely worth it. Despite the cold and rainy weather that day, the warm tea provided while waiting made the experience even more enjoyable. Thank you for the delicious treats!

I went to the Aoi Matsuri event on 5/15. This was my second time attending, as I had gone once during my student days. For 1,890 yen, I, as an adult, spent just under an hour making two wagashi (Japanese sweets) with the guidance of a craftsman. Afterwards, we enjoyed matcha tea and the wagashi made by the craftsman. So, in total, we received 5 wagashi: 2 that we made ourselves, 2 samples made by the craftsman, and 1 final wagashi made by the craftsman. The difference in quality between the professional and my own creations was quite clear (laughs). There were also demonstrations on how to enjoy matcha and showcasing the craftsman's skills, making it both fun and educational about the depth of wagashi. It was easy to sign up online, and those who participated in the wagashi-making workshop received a 10% discount on the wagashi below.

A friend who came to play in Kyoto really wanted to try making Kyoto sweets, so we went for a Kyoto confectionery making experience. The theme for spring was cherry blossoms and roses, and we started working under the guidance of a craftsman. It may not look like much of a difference in the photos, but in person, it's quite obvious (of course, the top one is the craftsman's sample). After the experience, we also bought some daifuku at the shop. It's wonderful to have sweets that you can enjoy with your eyes. It almost feels like a waste to eat them. (o‾ー‾o) After this Kyoto confectionery experience, you can receive a "Kyoto confectionery handmade experience certificate." There are four different versions for each season, so I plan to go for the summer version next time!!