About the Shop

Hello there, fellow travelers!

Today I prepared my water bottle before heading out, but
left it sitting on the kitchen counter as I walked out the door.
This is Binako, your Sarukuma writer!

Today I’m introducing you to a charming spot located in
Naka, Yamaga City, Kumamoto Prefecture:
“Yamaga Yokan Uemura-ya” — a long-established yokan specialist!

As you drive through Yamaga City, you’ll notice
signs reading “Yamaga Yokan” appearing roughly every 100 meters,
one after another… eventually, the cravings won and I had to stop by!

Convenient parking is available right in front of the shop.
Inside the shop, you’ll find Yamaga yokan alongside
a lovely selection of other traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi).

Other customers were stocking up while I was there, too!On the right side of the shop, there’s even a small eat-in area with tables.
You might spot my son in the photo, too!

Now here’s a question for you:
Have you ever heard of Yamaga yokan?
If you’re picturing the classic dense, jelly-like Japanese sweet…
think again!

Recommended Menu

Got my hands on one!
Yamaga Yokan: 378 yen

Surprise!
When you hear “yokan,” you probably picture the classic firm, jelly-like sweet bean confection, right?

Well, THIS is Yamaga yokan!

It’s smooth red bean paste (koshian) wrapped in a soft, chewy mochi made from rice flour.
Doesn’t that look absolutely irresistible?

Confession time:
this was actually my very first time trying Yamaga yokan!
Forgive me!

Oh my… I’m in love…

The stretchy, pillowy mochi paired with the lightly sweetened anko is an unbeatable combo.

I assumed the mochi would make it filling fast,
but I was completely wrong.

It’s so delicious that you can keep eating one after another!
The soft mochi and gentle, not-too-sweet bean paste
are the secret to why you’ll never want to stop.

It’s basically endless yokan!

If you’re visiting Yamaga City, you absolutely have to try these — you won’t regret it!

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Frequently Asked Questions

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