Welcome to Kashin Nakamura

Hello, travelers!
I’m Binako, a writer for Sarukuma — and yes, I just bought a sofa that’s way too big for my apartment. Anyway, on with the sweets!

Today, I’m taking you to Kurokawa in Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture, to visit a beloved local sweet shop:
“Kashin Nakamura”.

The shop has earned a serious buzz for its ishidatami pie (cobblestone pie), and as a fellow sweet-tooth, there was no way I could pass it up.

It’s conveniently located right next to Michi-no-Eki Aso, the popular roadside station I covered in a previous article — perfect for a tag-team visit.

[Michi-no-Eki Aso] The 2nd-Best Soft Serve in Kyushu Is Here at Michi-no-Eki Aso! (Aso City, Kurokawa)

The parking lot is right under the shop sign and fits about four cars.

The shop has a deep, narrow layout, and as you walk in, you’re greeted by rows of mouth-watering baked sweets lining the side display.

Nakadake Chocolat (210 yen) — officially recognized as an Aso Geopark Brand product.
A 6-piece gift set is also available, making it an ideal Kumamoto souvenir.

Across the aisle, the cake selection is just as tempting — especially the variety of roll cakes calling my name.

You’ll also spot nostalgic Japanese ice candies (popsicles) and even fresh dorayaki — the classic red-bean pancake sandwich.

And finally — the case I came for: the famous pies.

Here it is — the wildly popular “Bochu no Ishidatami Pie” (160 yen), named after the cobblestone paths of the local Bochu area.
Many loyal fans say, “Whenever I come to Aso, this pie is a non-negotiable stop.”

Equally famous is the “Tamadake Chou” cream puff (130 yen).
Fun fact: during the Edo period, Mt. Sumiyoshi (Suminodake) was once called “Tamadake” — and that’s where this cream puff gets its name.

And there’s even more to choose from — the Komezuka Mochi Pie (180 yen), named after Aso’s iconic grass-covered Komezuka volcanic cone, looked too creative not to mention.

Recommended Items at Kashin Nakamura

This time I picked up:
・Ishidatami Pie
・Tamadake Chou (cream puff)

I’d been excited about this Ishidatami Pie all the way to the shop — and finally getting my hands on it felt like a small dream come true.

The pastry is airy, light, and impossibly flaky.
Inside, the rich custard pours out like silk — creamy yet so smooth it almost drinks like a beverage.

And the crust itself? Light and shattering, yet still satisfying with a gentle chew. It’s pastry magic.

Next up, the Tamadake Chou — a hefty cream puff that any pastry lover will smile at on sight.

The thick, hearty choux shell is the star here.
You get a deep, toasty aroma alongside the rich, sweet custard — a textbook cream puff experience, elevated.

Unlike the silkier custard in the Ishidatami Pie, this filling is firmer and holds its shape — pairing beautifully with that sturdy choux pastry.

Now I totally get why locals and travelers alike consider this shop a must-stop in Aso…

It’s the perfect energy boost for a long Aso drive — sweet, satisfying, and unforgettable.

If you’re exploring Aso, definitely add Kashin Nakamura to your list!

[Michi-no-Eki Aso] The 2nd-Best Soft Serve in Kyushu Is Here at Michi-no-Eki Aso! (Aso City, Kurokawa)

Follow us on Instagram for daily updates!
At Sarukuma, we share Kumamoto’s best lunch spots, parks, indoor play areas, and family-friendly travel tips.
Follow along and join the journey(*´∀｀*)

Frequently Asked Questions

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