About the Shop

Hello there!
I’m Ayu-mama, a writer for SaruKuma.

Today I’m introducing a wonderful spot located in Takamori, Takamori-machi, Aso District:
【Buzenya Honten】

Many locals know it better as ‘Marukichi Shoyu’ — that name might ring a bell!

This shop is famous for its miso and soy sauce, drawing devoted fans from all over Kumamoto Prefecture and even from neighboring prefectures!

There’s parking available too — handy for travelers!

Step inside, and you’ll find shelves lined with a beautiful array of soy sauces and miso pastes — perfect souvenirs of Japanese cuisine.

They even have their own Japanese vinegar (osu)!

And it’s not just miso and soy sauce — they also sell takana-zuke (traditional pickled mustard greens, a beloved Kyushu specialty)!
I’m a huge fan of takana-zuke, so I couldn’t resist picking some up!

The Must-Try Menu Item

While the shop is celebrated for its miso and soy sauce, the real surprise is their incredibly delicious ‘Soy Sauce Ice Cream’ (Shoyu Ice)!

You can buy it in a regular cup, but here’s the magical twist…
You can also have it served sandwiched between crispy monaka wafers as a ‘Soy Sauce Monaka Ice Cream’!!! (Monaka is a traditional Japanese wafer made from glutinous rice.)

While I waited for my order, I was kindly invited to warm up by the heater — what hospitality!
The kindness and the gentle warmth of the stove melted into my chilled body and soul. So thoughtful!

Of course, I went straight for the Monaka Ice Cream!
And the price? Just 300 yen!!!
Bravo!!!

Just look at this beauty!
The glistening soy sauce ice cream gently cradled by an extra-crispy monaka wafer… (°▽°)
The sweet, syrupy notes of soy sauce blend perfectly with the creamy ice cream!

Personally, I’m not a fan of soggy monaka…

But here, the wafer is filled fresh on the spot, so you can savor that perfect crispy crunch with every bite!

And the ice cream itself? Absolutely outstanding!!!
Even kids will gobble it right up — it’s that good!

If you’re traveling to Takamori-machi, this is one treat you absolutely have to try!!!

Frequently Asked Questions

*Information is current as of the visit. Prices and hours may change. Please confirm before your visit.