About the Shop

Hello, fellow travelers!

It’s Binako, your hungry-as-ever
SaruKuma writer, here to share another local gem!

Today’s spotlight is on a charming little shop located in
Hashirigata-machi, Uto City, Kumamoto Prefecture:
“Ofukuro Manju”.

This is what Kumamoto locals call a “kaiten-manju” shop — a long-established maker of round, griddle-baked sweet buns filled with bean paste (similar to Japan’s beloved imagawayaki). Customers were streaming in throughout our visit!

Since it’s a popular spot with regular wait times, we highly recommend giving yourself plenty of time to enjoy the experience.

Visitors typically park right in front of the shop or just to the side — easy and convenient.

Watching the manju being grilled fresh through the shop window
is genuine artistry — you’ll find yourself mesmerized.

Once upon a time, this shop was run single-handedly by a kind grandmother. Today, two warm-hearted women keep the tradition alive together! ♪

Heads up: as of January, the shop is now closed every Wednesday and Sunday — so plan your visit accordingly!

Recommended Menu

The menu is beautifully simple: white bean paste (shiro) and black bean paste (kuro), each priced at just 100 yen.

This time, I picked up one of each!

While I waited in line, a sweet elderly lady next to me said,
“Once you’ve tasted the manju here, nothing else compares. I drive all the way to Uto every time just for these!”
And honestly?
I get it. I completely, absolutely get it.

The fluffy outer dough, the slightly molten inner layer, and the gentle sweetness of the white bean paste come together in pure harmony — utterly delicious.

The black bean paste version is packed wall-to-wall with rich anko!

It’s the kind of comforting, soul-warming sweetness
that pairs perfectly with the subtly sweet plain dough.

That dreamy, slightly gooey texture between the dough and bean paste is simply irresistible!

Ofukuro Manju is more than a shop — it’s a heartfelt local treasure.
If you’re exploring Kumamoto, please make a stop here. You won’t regret it!

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Frequently Asked Questions

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