Hello, fellow travelers!

This is Binako from Sarukuma,
your local Kumamoto guide (currently enjoying coffee jelly with my kids)!

Today, I’m excited to introduce you to
Matsunoya Honten Co., Ltd.,
a charming traditional sweets shop located in Toshima, Higashi-ku, Kumamoto City.

This shop is famous among locals for serving some of the most delicious ikinari dango (Kumamoto’s iconic sweet potato dumplings) in the area! (^^♪

I was driving by when the “Open” (営業中) sign caught my eye, and I just couldn’t resist stopping in! lol

The parking lot is conveniently located right next to the shop.
It’s nice and spacious, so you can park stress-free — perfect for tourists driving around Kumamoto! ( *´艸｀)

Right next to the register, you’ll find a beautiful display of freshly made ikinari dango!

Every type of ikinari dango is just 100 yen each!
So affordable! So delightful! Heaven!!

Sadly, the yomogi (mugwort) dango was already sold out on this visit.
I’ll definitely be back for round two!

The karaimo dango (sweet potato dumplings) are also all just 100 yen!
They come in two varieties: plain and purple sweet potato. (*´Д｀)

They also serve ohagi (sweet rice balls coated with red bean paste) — a traditional Japanese treat!
Great news for ohagi lovers!
And at just 120 yen each, the price is super reasonable! ♪

The shop staff are wonderfully friendly, with warm smiles that make ordering at the register a relaxed and pleasant experience. ^^

Recommended Menu Items

This time I tried two types of Ikinari Dango (100 yen each):
plain and purple sweet potato!

Let’s start with the plain version! ( *´艸｀)

Just look at that gorgeous, glossy sheen — you can already tell it’s going to be amazing!

Behold — a giant chunk of karaimo (Kumamoto sweet potato) appears!
Make way for His Majesty Karaimo!

Oh my — that generous size, that fluffy, natural sweetness…
Pure bliss!!!
The red bean paste is the chunky tsubuan style with a gentle, subtle sweetness, making it incredibly easy to enjoy! ♪

The wrapper is wonderfully chewy with just the right hint of saltiness, perfectly highlighting the natural sweetness of the bean paste. (*´Д｀)

Next up: the purple sweet potato version!
The vibrant purple color is absolutely stunning!
I kind of want my hair this color!

I love that the sweet potato isn’t perfectly shaped — it gives it that authentic, handmade feel.
Plus, that means even more bean paste packed inside! (*´Д｀)
The cross-section is simply mesmerizing.

The purple sweet potato version is absolutely incredible too!
The delicate aroma of purple sweet potato wafts up with every bite — pure magic!

Isn’t a duo of regular and purple sweet potato just the ultimate luxury?

This one also has that wonderfully chewy wrapper and is super satisfying to eat.
The balance of saltiness is just right — you could easily eat several in one sitting…
Honestly, polishing off two or three is no problem at all! ( *´艸｀)

They even include storage instructions with your purchase, which is super helpful if you’re buying several to take home or share with friends! ♪

If you’re traveling through Kumamoto, definitely add this gem to your itinerary!

Frequently Asked Questions

※ Information is current as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please verify before visiting.