Hello, fellow travelers!
It’s Gussan, your Sarukuma writer!

Today, I’m excited to introduce you to a wonderful spot tucked away in Kamitoricho, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto City:
【Amamiya Sweet Cafe】.
This is a beloved hidden gem nestled inside the Kamitori shopping arcade — a true insider’s favorite among Kumamoto locals.

Look for the iconic beckoning cat (maneki-neko) — that’s your landmark!
Climb up the staircase to enter.
The stairs are a bit narrow, but the interior opens up beautifully once you’re inside.
Here’s the entrance.
In true Japanese style, you’ll need to take off your shoes before stepping inside!
It feels just like visiting a friend’s home — you almost want to say “ojama shimasu” (“pardon the intrusion”)! 😊
Children’s chairs are available — perfect for families! ♪♪
Though I didn’t snap a photo, kids’ tableware is also on hand.
The interior is gorgeously retro — a wonderful slice of old-school Japanese charm.
Near the front, you’ll find horigotatsu seating (sunken floor seats with leg space underneath the table).
Next, there are standard table seats,
And way in the back, you’ll find traditional low-table (zataku) seating!
The horigotatsu seats are partially private, and the low-table area is perfect for families with small children.

Recommended Menu Items

Amamiya isn’t just about sweets — they also serve delicious savory dishes like udon noodles and Japanese curry.
You can even order combination sets that pair a savory meal with a sweet treat!
You can really tell they’re particular about quality ingredients!
One of Amamiya’s special charms is its handwritten menu!
It’s full of warmth and personality, easy to read, and helps you visualize each dish before it arrives — a delightful touch.
The selection is enormous!
Parfaits, traditional Japanese shaved ice (kakigori), ice cream, and anmitsu (a classic Japanese dessert with sweet bean paste, fruit, and gelatin cubes) ♪
The more you browse, the harder it gets to choose — what a lovely dilemma! ♪♪
It’s rare to find a place that serves zenzai (a traditional warm sweet red bean soup with mochi), so this is such a treat! ♪
In winter, I’m definitely team zenzai!
They offer single-item orders too — and yes, they even serve alcohol!
The Rich Matcha Cake (¥2,200) would make a fantastic souvenir for friends back home!
Can’t decide? Try the Sweets Set (¥780) —
two mini desserts plus your choice of one drink.
This one features shiratama kinako dango (sweet rice dumplings with roasted soybean flour) & rich matcha cake.
I chose coffee as my drink!
Here’s another Sweets Set (¥780) —
this time with a mini parfait & kinako-nut warabi mochi (a translucent jelly-like sweet dusted with roasted soybean flour and nuts).
I paired it with black tea this time!
Chatting with friends while sharing sweet Japanese desserts…
that’s pure happiness right there! ♪♪

Frequently Asked Questions

※Information current as of the visit. Prices and hours may change. Please check before visiting.