Welcome to Yotsume Manju

Hello, fellow travelers!
I’m Binako, a writer for Sarukuma, and today I’m sharing one of Kumamoto’s hidden gems for traditional Japanese sweets lovers.

Today’s spotlight is on “Yotsume Manju”, located in Futa, Nishihara Village, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture.

The wooden storefront has that warm, rustic Japanese countryside charm that immediately wins your heart.

Convenient parking is available right across the street.

The cozy interior and the warm, welcoming staff instantly put you at ease.

The shop’s signature item:
Yotsume Manju — 216 yen
Four adorably round little bun shapes joined together into one playful sweet — a true visual treat!

These cute, bite-sized treats are too tempting to resist:
Cheese Daifuku — 216 yen
Strawberry Daifuku — 250 yen
Two of these mochi-wrapped delights fit easily in the palm of your hand.

Brown Sugar Yokan (Kokuto Yokan) — 2,376 yen
This traditional jellied sweet bean confection makes the perfect souvenir or gift, pairing beautifully with both Japanese tea and coffee.

Kosuzu — 150 yen
Monaka au Pomme — 216 yen
These are almost too cute to eat — perfect for gifting to friends or family.

Instant Oshiruko (sweet red bean soup):
Fuku Shiruko — 432 yen
If you love traditional Japanese sweet soups, this convenient instant version is a must-try!

Our Recommended Picks

This time we tried:
Strawberry Daifuku, Yotsume Manju, Kosuzu, and Monaka au Pomme!
Everything looked so delicious that choosing was nearly impossible.

First up: the signature [Yotsume Manju].

The fluffy steamed bun is generously stuffed with sweet anko (red bean paste).
One bite and pure happiness washes over you.

Next, the charming little [Kosuzu] — meaning “little bell.”

The crispy monaka wafer shell with sweet anko inside is delicious on its own, but here’s the surprise:
there’s chocolate hidden inside as well!
The rich cocoa adds a sophisticated, grown-up twist to this traditional treat.

Then there’s the eye-catching [Monaka au Pomme] (apple-shaped monaka)
— so charming, even Snow White couldn’t resist!

The delicate sweetness of white bean paste melts in your mouth.
A subtle hint of cinnamon adds a slightly spicy note,
making this a rich, never-boring monaka experience.

And finally, the irresistibly cute [Strawberry Daifuku].

The soft, chewy mochi is, to put it mildly, absolutely heavenly.

Juicy fresh strawberry paired with sweet bean paste — a classic combination that’s guaranteed to delight.

Every single sweet at Yotsume Manju is a winner. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack while exploring rural Kumamoto or hunting for a unique Japanese souvenir, this little shop is well worth the detour. Be sure to stop by!

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information accurate at time of visit. Prices and hours may change. Please confirm before visiting.