Introducing Toro Manju Yoshidaya

Hello, this is Asukarando, a writer for SaruKuma!

Today I’m introducing a wonderful little spot in Yamaga, Yamaga City:
[Toro Manju Yoshidaya].

While strolling along the nostalgic Buzen Kaido — Yamaga’s historic hot spring street — I spotted these gorgeous manju (Japanese sweet buns) being grilled to perfection!
Well, that was it — I had to stop in (*^.^*)

Now, this looked like a seriously historic manju shop…
The gentleman grilling the sweets had the air of a true craftsman who has dedicated his life to this single art.

Gathering my courage, I greeted him: “We’re SaruKou Kumamoto!” — heart pounding (>.<)y-~

And to my surprise…

The kind smile he gave back melted all my nerves away (*^.^*)

Photos of him weren’t allowed, so this is a secret only visitors get to enjoy — but trust me, he’s a wonderfully warm-hearted gentleman (*^.^*)

He even let the kids watch the manju being grilled (^-^)v
Watching them sizzle through the glass window is such a delightful experience for both children and adults!

With 65 years of history behind it, Toro Manju Yoshidaya is a true Yamaga institution!
These sweet buns are quite different from the typical kaiten-yaki (rotating-pan style) manju you may know (^^)

Recommended Menu at Toro Manju Yoshidaya

Yoshidaya offers two flavors: black bean paste (kuro-an) and white bean paste (shiro-an)!

1 piece — 160 yen

At such a friendly price, the whole family can enjoy them together (^-^)v

Look at that lovely round shape and golden-brown grilled finish (^-^)v

They feel surprisingly heavy for their size — a sure sign that they’re packed full of luscious bean paste inside (^^)

Crack it open!

The skin is delightfully thin, and inside is a generous filling of chunky black bean paste with that wonderful textured feel!

Despite the abundant bean paste, it’s not overly sweet — making it easy to finish in just a few happy bites (*^.^*)

The bun itself is fluffy and soft, with a hint of mild sweetness reminiscent of castella sponge cake!

The white bean paste also keeps a slightly chunky texture, and it’s just as densely packed!

Eaten fresh and piping hot from the grill, the soft, fluffy bun fills you with pure bliss (>.<)y-~

A perfect treat that matches the historic charm of Yamaga’s Buzen Kaido (*^.^*)

After soaking in the famous Yamaga hot springs, head straight to Yoshidaya for these heavenly manju (^-^)v

So which side are you on — Team Black Bean or Team White Bean?
They make a lovely souvenir, but honestly, nothing beats enjoying them piping hot, right there in Yamaga’s nostalgic atmosphere!

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is current as of the time of coverage. Prices and hours may change. Please confirm before visiting.