Shichimiya Honpo, a spice specialty shop that has stood along the approach to Kiyomizudera for over 370 years, reopened its Kiyomizu main store on March 5, 2026 — marking a milestone year since its founding in the Meireki era (1655).
The shop is known for its "Kyoto Mebutsu Shichimi Togarashi," a seven-spice chili pepper blend passed down through generations using a closely guarded family recipe. Along with shichimi, it carries sansho (Japanese pepper) and ichimi (single-spice chili), placing it among Japan's three most celebrated shichimi producers — alongside Yagenbori in Asakusa, Tokyo, and Yawataya Isogoro in Nagano.
A More Relaxed Space to Explore Kyoto's Flavors
The pilgrimage road to Kiyomizudera draws visitors from across Japan and around the world. While the area is lively, pausing to browse at a relaxed pace can sometimes be difficult. The renovation refocused the store interior, creating a calmer atmosphere where visitors can take their time exploring the selection. The layout has been redesigned with thoughtful attention to visitor flow.
In-store, visitors can sample the "Kyoto Mebutsu Shichimi Togarashi" and other products before purchasing — a chance for international guests to experience Kyoto's traditional spice culture firsthand.
Reopening Commemorative Limited Items
Mamebukuro Assorted Can (Limited Edition) — ¥1,080 (tax included)
A limited-edition tin brings together the shop's three signature spices — Shichimi Togarashi, Sansho, and Ichimi — in a trio of small pouches (mamebukuro). The portable tin design makes it a fitting Kyoto souvenir or gift for those heading overseas.
Opening Novelty Gift
Customers who make a purchase will receive, while supplies last, a set of four flavored chocolates — shichimi, sansho, yuzu, and houjicha. The pairing of traditional Japanese spice ingredients with chocolate offers a fresh interpretation of Kyoto sweets.
The Kiyomizu main store is open 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (hours subject to seasonal variation).
