When you get the chance to visit Nara, why not try a famous mochi called Kuzumochi?
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What is KUZUMOCHI?
When you visit Nara, consider trying a famous mochi called Kuzumochi. This traditional Japanese dessert is made from kuzu powder, water, and sugar. Kuzu, the main ingredient of Kuzumochi, is a perennial plant in the pea family. The origin of Kuzumochi dates back to the Yoshino region of Nara Prefecture. Kuzumochi contains no additives, and its main ingredient, kuzu powder, is made by repeatedly purifying the starch found in kuzu roots with only underground water from winter, then drying it for 2-3 months. Among them, “Yoshino Honkuzu” is a very valuable and rare type of kuzu, made from crushed kuzu roots without using starch.
Where to have Yoshino Honkuzu?
You can enjoy Yoshino Honkuzu at Sakyura, a specialty shop located in Naramachi. Naramachi is an area centered around the former grounds of the World Heritage Site, Gangoji Temple, and features the preserved townhouses from the late Edo to Meiji periods. These townhouses are characterized by lattice doors at the front and often have narrow facades with deep interiors. The building of Sakyura is over 160 years old. The current owner is the 6th generation of a kimono shop established in Meiji 8, which started the Yoshino Honkuzu specialty shop. Inside, you’ll find tatami rooms with views of a Japanese garden.
What to have at SAKURA?
At Sakura, you can enjoy sweets made entirely by hand using 100% Yoshino Honkuzu and prepared after receiving your order. We tried the matcha with “Kuzumochi” and “Kuzu Shiruko.” The “Kuzumochi” was a transparent, jelly-like dessert made from kuzu powder, which paired well with the moderate sweetness of the kinako (roasted soybean flour) and the elegant sweetness of the kuromitsu (black sugar syrup). The “Kuzu Shiruko” was a rare delicacy. Since we visited in March, we had warm shiruko, but in summer, you can enjoy a cold version with sweet red bean paste. The warm shiruko had a thick, sticky kuzu simmered in it, with a refreshing sweetness.
if you find yourself in Nara, don’t miss the opportunity to try the famous mochi at Sakura. With their dedication to using 100% Yoshino Honkuzu and handcrafting each sweet to order, you’ll experience the true essence of traditional Japanese sweets.
Details of SAKURA
Contact: View Website
Address: 2 Takagimachi, Nara City, Nara Prefecture
Business Hours: 10:00 -17:00, Closes on Wednesday & Thursday (open on bank holidays).
