Hello there, fellow travelers!
Even though I wasn’t particularly hungry this morning, somehow I ended up devouring a whole rice bowl —
It’s your SaruKuma writer Binako here!

Today, I’m excited to introduce you to a delightful spot located in
Tsukide, Higashi Ward, Kumamoto City:
“Kinoka” (季乃菓).

With its house-like exterior, you might walk right past it — but this is one of those wonderful hidden gems known only to those in the know! A traditional Japanese sweet shop (wagashi shop) waiting to be discovered ( *´艸｀)

There are about 3 parking spots right next door ^^
(Just be careful — there’s an apartment building between the shop and the parking lot, so don’t get them mixed up!)

A treasure box of Japanese sweets…

So many tempting options — I want them all!

Here you’ll find a complete tea set selection ^^

And right now (*´Д｀)

They’re stocking traditional rice crackers (osenbei) and black tea, too ( *´艸｀)

They also offer beautiful gift sets, perfect as souvenirs to bring home (*´Д｀)
A paradise for anyone who loves Japanese sweets (*´Д｀)

Recommended Menu

Brown Sugar Mizu Yokan (water-style sweet bean jelly) — 170 yen

Jugoya (harvest moon sweet) — 230 yen

Yamae Chestnut Steamed Yokan — 250 yen

Salted Bean Daifuku (with chunky red bean paste) — 185 yen

Rikyu Matcha Cream Daifuku — 185 yen

Yuki-no-Tsuki (Snow Moon) — 185 yen

Framboise Fresh Daifuku — 195 yen

Just looking at these is a feast for the eyes!

Hehehe…
I bought some to take home!

And… OPEN!

Ta-daa!

This time, I picked up:

Brown Sugar Mizu Yokan — 170 yen

Salted Bean Daifuku — 185 yen

Let’s dig in (^^♪

Hmm…

This looks absolutely delicious.

First up — the Brown Sugar Mizu Yokan.
(I was so eager that I accidentally cut into it before taking the photo!)

Ohhhh wow!

The sweetness is incredibly gentle!

It’s not just sweet — it has this rich, deep flavor!
Must be the brown sugar… this taste is truly addictive!

Next, the Salted Bean Daifuku.

Packed full of red bean paste!!!
The beans are kept whole, giving it a satisfying texture and substance!!

And the salted beans? The salt level is absolutely perfect —
the balance between sweet and salty is just exquisite!!

You won’t get tired of it — in fact, you’ll just want more and more!!
A truly gentle, soothing flavor that warms the soul…

Since they sometimes sell out by morning, I highly recommend arriving right when the shop opens!

Frequently Asked Questions

*Information current as of the visit. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please confirm before visiting.