Hello, I'm sekino from the Holiday Travel editorial team. Today I'd like to introduce you to one of my favorite Japanese sweets. 😊
Discovering "Koganeimo" at a Historic Shop in Ningyocho
The Ningyocho and Suitengumae area, just a short walk from our office, is full of wonderful discoveries. 🚶♀️ Among them, my particular favorite is "Kotobukidou," a traditional confectionery shop 🏮 that has been in business since 1884 (Meiji 17).
A Traditional Taste Beloved for Over 140 Years
Their signature confection "Koganeimo" (Golden Sweet Potato) 🍠 truly lives up to its name with its adorable appearance that looks just like a real sweet potato. About 7 centimeters in size, its beautiful golden color that gleams like precious metal ✨ is truly worthy of the name "golden."
The distinctive feature of Koganeimo is its rich cinnamon aroma. 🌿 It's made by wrapping yellow bean paste mixed with egg yolk in a thin wheat flour skin, generously coating it with cinnamon, and grilling it on skewers at approximately 400 degrees. 🔥 This unique "skewer-grilling method" creates its characteristic round shape without any flat surfaces.
When you cut open the Koganeimo, it really does look like a sweet potato inside! 😋 Taking a bite, you'll experience the perfect balance between the spicy aroma of cinnamon and the refined sweetness of the smooth yellow bean paste. The thin skin has a moist texture that beautifully contrasts with the golden-colored filling inside, making it truly worthy of being called a work of "figurative confectionery art."
Also, when you purchase sweets at this shop, pay attention to the wrapping paper. It features a menu of seasonal confections, adding a touch of Japanese aesthetics to the packaging itself.
Recommended Ways to Enjoy
Koganeimo pairs excellently with hot tea, coffee, or milk. Surprisingly, it's also said to be delicious with whisky on the rocks for a more sophisticated adult enjoyment. Its reasonable price makes it perfect as a small gift that's sure to be appreciated. ✨
Access Information
Kotobukidou
- Address: 2-1-4 Nihonbashi Ningyocho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- Nearest stations: Ningyocho Station, Suitengumae-mae Station
This Koganeimo has been beloved in the historic town of Ningyocho for over 140 years. It's an exquisite confection packed with the charm of cinnamon that you'll never forget once you try it. I feel so fortunate to have discovered such wonderful wagashi so close to our office.
When you're exploring the Ningyocho and Suitengumae area, I highly recommend stopping by Kotobukidou to experience this beautiful Koganeimo for yourself. It's sure to be a special experience for you as well. 🍠😋