Sakai City in Osaka Prefecture, Japan, exudes a captivating blend of modern urban living and timeless charm. With a population of around 840,000 people, it thrives as the second-largest city in Osaka Prefecture. Steeped in history that dates back to ancient times, Sakai City offers a captivating scene for history enthusiasts and curious wanderers alike.
The streets of Sakai City are adorned with a tapestry of historical sites and landmarks, showcasing the area's rich heritage. As you explore, remnants of its prosperous trade hub status during the Edo period come alive. The Ishizu District stands as a testament to the past, with well-preserved Machiya houses, narrow streets, and old merchant shops exuding an authentic traditional atmosphere.
Amidst this historic backdrop, Sakai City also boasts a vibrant culinary culture that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. As the second-largest city in Osaka Prefecture, it serves up a diverse range of culinary delights, reflecting both local traditions and influences from around Japan.
Venture through the bustling streets and discover the street food scene, where delectable treats await. Indulge in kushikatsu, skewered and deep-fried meats, vegetables, and seafood, or embark on a culinary journey through the local specialties and traditional dishes that Sakai City takes great pride in. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the world-renowned Sakai Uchihamono knives, highly regarded by professional chefs worldwide.
Yaogen Raikodo——Founded in the 1800s
Yaogen Raikodo Honten, located approximately 15 minutes on foot from Sakai Station, is a renowned confectionery shop. Established in the Bunka-Bunsei period (the 1800s), this shop has become a popular stop for specialty items in Sakai.
The exterior of Yaogen Raikodo Honten emanates a unique vintage charm, showcasing its rich history. The building itself boasts a remarkable age of around 70 years, further adding to its allure. Stepping inside, you'll be captivated by the delightful flavors and the enduring popularity of their specialty confection, Cinnamon Mochi.
As I entered the shop, I discovered an array of representative sweets from Sakai City. From the fragrant and flavorful Yogan (roasted soybean flour) to the exquisite Monaka (wafer filled with sweet bean paste), and the indulgent Azuki Mochi (rice cake filled with red bean paste), Yaogen Raikodo Honten offers a variety of treats that continue to entice both locals and visitors alike.
However, the star attraction at Yaogen Raikodo Honten is undoubtedly the Cinnamon Mochi. This confection holds a special place in Sakai City's culinary heritage. During the Tensho era (1573-1592), when Sakai flourished through Nanban trade, cinnamon was imported as a medicinal herb. It was during this time that the idea of incorporating cinnamon into mochi took shape, resulting in the creation of the delectable Cinnamon Mochi.
Yaogen Raikodo Honten takes pride in preserving this beloved tradition and continues to craft Cinnamon Mochi that captures the essence of Sakai's history. With its delicate balance of soft mochi texture and the warm, fragrant flavors of cinnamon, this signature sweet has become an iconic symbol of the city's culinary delights.
Address: 2 Chome-1-11 Kurumanochohigashi, Sakai Ward, Sakai City, Osaka 590-0943
photo from: http://www.yaogen.com/ 八百源8/7/2023