Sakai City is a city located in Osaka Prefecture, Japan. With a population of over 840,000 people, Sakai City is the second-largest city in Osaka Prefecture and offers a unique blend of modern urban living and traditional charm. The city boasts a rich heritage dating back to ancient times, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts.
One of the standout features of Sakai City is its historical sites and landmarks. The area was a prosperous trade hub during the Edo period, and remnants of that era can still be seen today. Notably, the Ishizu District preserves the traditional atmosphere with its well-preserved Machiya houses, narrow streets, and old merchant shops, offering a glimpse into the past.
Sakai City is not only rich in history and culture but also boasts a vibrant food culture that is sure to tantalize the taste buds of visitors. As the second-largest city in Osaka Prefecture, Sakai City offers a diverse range of culinary delights that reflect both its local traditions and influences from around Japan.
One of the highlights of Sakai City's food culture is its street food scene. Walking through the bustling streets, visitors can indulge in delicious treats like kushikatsu, which are skewered and deep-fried meats, vegetables, and seafood. In addition to street food, Sakai City is known for its local specialties and traditional dishes. The city takes great pride in its Sakai Uchihamono knives, which are highly regarded by professional chefs worldwide
Oteramochi Kawaido——Found in 1596
Oteramochi Kawaido is a traditional Japanese confectionery shop conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Sakai Station. With its roots dating back to 1596 (during the Keicho era), this esteemed establishment operates within the premises of Aguchi Shrine, also known as Oterasan. Oteramochi Kawaido specializes in producing and selling Oteramochi, a beloved local delicacy of Sakai. Notably, Oteramochi has earned recognition as a favorite treat of the renowned poet and Sakai native, Yosano Akiko.
As I entered Oteramochi Kawaido, the delightful aroma of freshly made wagashi enveloped me. The display showcased an array of traditional Japanese sweets like Sakuramochi and sekihan, but my attention was immediately drawn to their renowned specialties: Ankoromochi and Kinakomochi. Intrigued by the craftsmanship behind these treats, I couldn't resist indulging in a firsthand taste experience.
I started with Ankoromochi, enticed by its promise of soft rice cakes and sweet azuki bean paste. As I took my first bite, the smoothness of the red bean paste melded with the chewy texture of the rice cake. The flavor combination was exquisite, as the sweetness slowly filled my mouth. It was easy to understand why Ankoromochi had become such a beloved treat over the years.
Eager to try another delicacy, I moved on to Kinakomochi. The sight of the delicate mochi dusted with the fragrant kinako powder immediately intrigued me. With anticipation, I took a bite and savored the subtlety of each flavor. The nutty undertones of the roasted soybean flour harmonized perfectly with the tender mochi, creating a delightful blend of sweetness and earthiness.
My visit to Oteramochi Kawaido was more than just a tasting experience; it was a journey into the world of Japanese confectioneries. Each bite revealed the dedication and skill that went into crafting these traditional sweets. I left with a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of wagashi.
Address: 4-1-27 Shorinjicho Nishi, Sakai-ku, Sakai City
photo from: https://www.sakai-tcb.or.jp/en/spot/detail/234/ 大寺餅河合堂8/4/2023