
What is Yokan? All You Need to Know About Yokan
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Yokan is a classic Japanese confection with a history spanning over 1000 years. Yokan is mildly sweet with a simple azuki bean flavor and is typically shaped into uniform rectangular sticks. Yokan represents the harmony of simplicity, seasonality, and artistry in Japanese food culture.

Japan's Sweet Sensations (I): Le Mauve
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In a quaint neighborhood of eastern Hyogo Prefecture, two bakeries are breaking barriers and changing lives. These establishments stand out not only for their delectable treats but also for their extraordinary workforce. What sets them apart is that the majority of their employees are people with physical and mental disabilities.

Shinise (XVIII): Matsuokaken
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Matsuokaken, established in 1897 by Awashima Tsune, is a renowned confectionery store in Fukui. They specialize in creating Habutae Mochi, a delicate and smooth rice confection. Matsuokaken also offers other treats like Habutae Monaka and Habutae Dorayaki. These desserts incorporate mochi and red bean paste, providing a delightful experience to all who indulge.

Shinise (XVII): Nishisaka
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Nishisaka is a traditional Japanese confectionery shop established in 1921. Located near Mikuni Station, it specializes in the production and sale of renowned local delicacies, such as sake manju. Nishisaka's sake manju stands out with its unique flavor, where smooth bean paste is wrapped in matured dough and fermented.

Shinise (XVI): Kikkodo
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Kikkodo is a traditional Japanese confectionery shop in Kurashiki, known for preserving tradition while exploring new flavors. Murasuzume, inspired by woven hats and golden ears of rice, offers a unique taste experience.

Shinise (XV): Fujito Manju
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Fujito Manju is a renowned steamed bun shop in Kurashiki. With origins dating back to the Genpei War, this beloved treat is crafted with care using only the finest ingredients. Fujito Manju embodies the essence of Kurashiki's esteemed confectionery traditions.

Shinise (XIV): Rogetsudo
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Rogetsudo is a beloved traditional confectionery shop. Established in 1926, it offers exquisite sweets crafted with age-old techniques. Their signature delicacy, "Shittori Manju," is known for its moist and chewy texture. Another popular treat is the "Butter Mochi," which surprises with its harmonious flavors. Rogetsudo embodies community and nostalgia, making it a cherished destination in Yokote City.

Shinise (XIII): Sugiyama Juzando
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Sugiyama Juzando is a traditional Japanese confectionery shop founded in 1705 by Ryosaku Sugiyama. He is credited with inventing the famous Akita delicacy known as Morokoshi. The shop is currently part of the Kaorudo group, a company founded in 1922.

Shinise (XII): Yaogen Raikodo
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Yaogen Raikodo is a renowned confectionery shop located in Sakai City. Established in the 1800s, it offers an array of unique sweets such as Yogan, Monaka, and Azuki Mochi. However, the star attraction of the shop is the Cinnamon Mochi, which holds a special place in Sakai's culinary heritage.

Shinise (XI): Oteramochi Kawaido
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Step into Oteramochi Kawaido in Sakai City and be transported to a world of Japanese confectionery mastery. Indulge in the beloved Ankoromochi or savor the delicate Kinakomochi, with its tender mochi dusted in fragrant kinako powder. Each bite reveals the dedication and skill behind these centuries-old treats, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship put into wagashi, Japanese snacks.

Shinise (X): Nanyodo
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Nanyodo is a well-established confectionery shop that has been delighting customers since its founding in 1921. It is renowned for its mastery in creating exquisite "monaka" - sweet filled wafers. Nanyodo offers a diverse range of flavors that cater to every palate. Each monaka is carefully handcrafted with attention to detail, embodying the artistry and tradition of Japanese confectionery.

Shinise (IX): Tawaraya Yoshitomi
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Tawaraya Yoshitomi’s origins can be traced back to 1755. Over the years, the business evolved and faced various challenges. The company has received numerous awards and recognition for its exquisite confections, such as the "Unryu" and "Manjuran."

Shinise (VIII): Hoteido
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Founded in 1923 by a husband-and-wife team, Hoteido is a confectionery shop that has withstood numerous challenges, including the 1943 Tottori Earthquake, World War II, and the Tottori Great Fire. Today, the tradition of crafting Japanese sweets continues under the management of the third and fourth generations.

Japanese Snacks (IV): Kasutera
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Kasutera is a beloved dessert in Japan and around the world due to its light and fluffy texture and subtle sweetness. Whether enjoyed in its classic form or with a unique twist, this traditional Japanese sponge cake is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Japanese Snacks (II): Taiyaki
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There is no fish in taiyaki, though it literally means “baked sea bream.” It is one of the most popular Japanese street foods and can be found almost everywhere in Japan, especially in Tokyo. It is an ideal snack in winter when everyone craves a sweet and warm treat to help with the cold a little.

Wagashi: The Japanese Traditional Sweets
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Have you ever known a dessert that looks like a beautiful flower? It is an amazing design by Japanese - Wagashi, a delicate confection that not only tastes good but also looks good. Made of veggie ingredients, Wagashi is healthy and tasty. Click this article to open the amazing world of Japanese sweets!