Kanou Shouju-an (叶 匠壽庵), a wagashi maker based in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, is marking the 60th anniversary of its signature confectionery "Akai" (閼伽井) by introducing a new variety: "Akai (Black Sesame)." The new flavor will go on sale at all Kanou Shouju-an stores starting Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
A Confectionery Rooted in Mii-dera Temple
Kanou Shouju-an was founded in 1958 in the Nagara neighborhood of Otsu City, near Mii-dera Temple (Onjoji). In the shop's early years, founder Seiji Shibata sold confections to tourists arriving by tour bus at Mii-dera's parking lot. It was that longstanding relationship with the temple that gave rise to "Akai" in 1965.
Beside the main hall (Kondo) of Mii-dera stands a small structure called "Akai-ya." Inside, a sacred spring wells up — one said to have been used to bathe the newborn Emperors Tenji, Tenmu, and Jito. Inspired by this storied spring, the confectionery was shaped as three mochi — each carrying a wish for merit — and given the name "Akai."
Sixty years on, the sweet continues to be cherished as a representative confectionery of Shiga and Omi, beloved across generations.
Fukuya Toshihiko, Chief Abbot of the Tendai Jimon Sect head temple Mii-dera, offered the following comment:
"I remember Seiji Shibata, founder of Kanou Shouju-an, visiting my father — who was Chief Abbot at the time — and asking to create a confectionery inspired by the sacred spring 'Akai' of Mii. Sixty years later, knowing that it has continued as a renowned sweet is truly wonderful. I celebrate this historic Omi confectionery with a deep connection to Mii-dera, and hope it continues to be cherished for many years to come."
About Akai (Black Sesame)
The new "Akai (Black Sesame)" features habutae mochi coated in fragrant, toasted ground black sesame. It is enjoyed with kuromitsu (black sugar syrup) made from Okinawa brown sugar, poured over the top before eating.
Product Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Akai (Black Sesame) |
| Sales Period | Year-round, starting April 15, 2026 (Wednesday) |
| Availability | All Kanou Shouju-an stores |
| Prices (tax included) | Single piece: ¥249 / 3-piece box: ¥810 / 6-piece box: ¥1,599 |
| Best Before | 30 days from manufacture date |
| Allergens (28 items) | Milk, soy, sesame |
In-Store Anniversary Campaign
To celebrate the 60th anniversary of "Akai," Kanou Shouju-an stores will hold a special "Kashi Mikuji" (confectionery fortune slip) campaign. Customers who spend ¥3,240 or more (tax included) in store will receive one fortune slip, which guarantees a piece of wagashi to be exchanged on the spot.
Campaign period: Wednesday, April 15 – Tuesday, April 28, 2026
- Available while supplies last
- Excludes some store locations; online orders and phone orders are not eligible
