About Koga Chikusan

Hello there!
I’m Binako — a SaruKuma writer who suspects she has unusually fast digestion!

Today I’m introducing
Koga Chikusan, located in Namazu, Kashima Town, Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto Prefecture,
a must-visit local gem.

Heads up: if you search the name in your car navigation, it may guide you to the company office instead.
We strongly recommend using the “Access” map at the bottom of this article!

Step inside and you’re greeted by an explosion of bright yellow!

An adorable Karashi Renkon Bo (Mustard Lotus Root Stick) mascot character welcomes you in.

Quick context for international visitors: karashi renkon is a Kumamoto specialty — lotus root stuffed with spicy mustard miso, then deep-fried. Koga Chikusan’s “Karashi Renkon Bo” is a modern snack-stick version of this iconic local dish.
It’s been certified as a “Higo Mokkosu no Umakamon” (Authentic Kumamoto Tasty Product) and even won a Grand Prix award — a beloved spin on Kumamoto’s famous mustard lotus root.

The Karashi Renkon Bo comes in a bulk pack of 20 sticks for 20,000 yen.
It’s perfect as a snack, an accompaniment to drinks, or a side dish — incredibly versatile.

Looking for a small souvenir? They’ve got you covered.
4-stick packs are also available at 500 yen each — ideal as a Kumamoto omiyage (souvenir gift) for friends and family back home.

“But come on — let me try one fresh out of the fryer!”
We can already hear you saying it.

Don’t worry, they’ve thought of that too. Freshly-fried sticks are available right on the spot for just 100 yen each, so you can enjoy that piping-hot, crispy goodness as much as you like.

And after you’ve made your purchase, why not take home the cute Karashi Renkon Bo mascot too?

Koga Chikusan: Recommended Menu

Today, I tried both the freshly-fried Original and Mentaiko (spicy cod roe) flavors!
They’re served in a paper cup, which means they fit perfectly in your car’s drink holder — road-trip snack approved!

First up, the Original.

The crispy, golden coating perfectly matches the satisfying crunch of the lotus root inside.
The mustard kick is mild, so even small children can enjoy it without any trouble — great news for traveling families!

And here’s the Mentaiko version. The moment two flavors that should never have met collide in the most delicious way.

Yep — absolutely delicious. The kind of treat that has you reaching for another with every bite.
The rich aroma of mentaiko (spicy cod roe) bursts across your palate — pure indulgence.
And that signature lotus root crunch? Irresistible.
Fair warning: even the bulk 20-stick pack will disappear in no time!

Can’t make the trip out to Kashima Town? No worries.
The Karashi Renkon Bo is sold at many partner shops around Kumamoto, so be sure to look for them at a store near you!

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Frequently Asked Questions

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