Introducing Kaho Sanukiya

Hello, fellow travelers!
This is Binako, a writer for Sarukuma, bringing you another local gem from Kumamoto.

Today, I’m taking you to Shinmachi, Uto City, Kumamoto Prefecture, to visit a remarkable shop called “Kaho Sanukiya”.

The shop occupies the first floor of a building, with the entrance tucked just slightly off the main path.

Convenient parking is available right in front of the shop—great if you’re driving.

Stepping inside, I was greeted by an incredible variety of traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi)!

Just to the right of the entrance, you’ll find the shop’s signature rakugan—a delicate pressed sugar sweet passed down through generations.

Sanukiya is a wagashi shop with roots stretching all the way back to the early Edo period—an authentic Japanese sweets institution!

An astonishing 370 years of history
Generations of owners have carried the founder’s vision forward, making this a beloved cornerstone of the local community.

You’ll find a lovely selection of manju (Japanese steamed buns with sweet fillings)…

…and even some unique sweets you won’t find anywhere else!

Castella Manju – 130 yen
Zeitaku Azuki (Luxurious Red Bean) – 130 yen

Umi no Megumi – Daishizen (Bounty of the Sea) – 130 yen
Genroku – 130 yen

The variety of beautifully crafted Japanese sweets here is truly impressive.

Behind the glass display, you’ll spot exquisitely beautiful Kyoto-style confections (kyo-gashi) lined up like little works of art.

The showcase even features beautiful nerikiri—handcrafted sweet bean paste sweets shaped like flowers and seasonal motifs.

And here’s the latest sensation taking Sanukiya by storm—
Wa-Coron – 120 yen
This adorable modern Japanese sweet is the must-try of the moment!

It was created by the daughter of the current 13th-generation owner (the future 14th-generation successor), blending tradition with playful charm.

I came specifically hoping to try one, but they had completely sold out due to their soaring popularity. Next time, I’m definitely getting one!

Another fan favorite is the YAKI-MUGI
Available in gift boxes or sold individually—perfect for snacking or sharing!

What truly amazed me was this stunning Wagashi Cake (3,780 yen)!

Every single ingredient is made from traditional Japanese sweets—
It’s a cake crafted entirely from nerikiri, yokan (sweet bean jelly), and kanten (agar)!
Apparently it was a huge hit during Christmas, and I can absolutely see why—I’d love to try it myself someday!

They also offer beautiful gift boxes—a wonderful authentic Japanese souvenir to bring home or give as a present.

Recommended Treats

This time, I picked up the Maru-Boro, Umi no Megumi Daishizen, and YAKI-MUGI—a classic Kumamoto trio!

First up, the YAKI-MUGI.

A wonderfully soft, moist cookie sandwiches a layer of orange yokan (sweet bean jelly)—it melts in your mouth with a refreshing, perfectly balanced sweetness. Absolutely delicious!

Next, I tried the Maru-Boro, a classic Kyushu favorite.

Its gentle, mellow sweetness and fluffy texture are loved by kids and adults alike—an irresistible classic!

Then came the Umi no Megumi Daishizen.

Black sesame seeds add a delightful crunch, paired with a subtle, refined sweetness.

And here’s the surprise—there’s konbu (kelp) tucked inside!
The savory umami of the kelp blends beautifully with the sweetness, creating an incredibly distinctive and unforgettable flavor.

I also tried the nerikiri.

I just adore how stunning these look—true edible art!

The cross-section reveals a beautiful filling of smooth anko (sweet red bean paste).

The moment you take a bite, that distinctive, refined Japanese flavor floods your senses—it’s irresistible.

The way it gently melts on the tongue
makes it the perfect companion to a cup of green tea.

With over 370 years of history—rare even by Kumamoto’s standards—Sanukiya offers wagashi as warm and welcoming as the kindness of its owners. The gentle sweetness lingers like a heartfelt memory.

I’m definitely going back to grab a Wa-Coron and that incredible Wagashi Cake. If you’re exploring Kumamoto, this hidden gem is a must-visit for an authentic taste of Japanese sweet-making heritage!

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Frequently Asked Questions

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