Zenkashoin is a brand of authentic and hybrid Japanese-Western confectionery treats located near Kyoto’s iconic Nijo Castle.
Japanese confectioneries are always a fantastic souvenir idea to take home or even enjoy on the spot during your trip. From Tokyo Banana to Peanut Monaka, I’ve had my fair share of sweet souvenir snacks, but this banger from Zenkashoin takes the cake! A company that produces all kinds of delicious snacks and confectioneries, I’ll be specifically reviewing the “Phantom Moon” waffle sandwich, which has received high customer praise and global recognition.
幻月 ゲンゲツ Maboroshi Gengetsu (Phantom Moon)
Maboroshi Gengetsu roughly translates to “phantom moon” and is the name of one of Zenkashoin’s bestselling treats!
A hard-baked waffle sandwich with fillings of various flavors, the concept is simple but the taste is utterly mesmerizing.
These treats are neatly wrapped and packaged in a way that encourages gift-giving, making them a great souvenir to take home a piece of Kyoto with you.
Gourmet Quality
I had the privilege of trying these in my workplace break room at SOWAKA Luxury Hotel when a co-worker had brought in a box for the staff to enjoy.
The quality of the foil wrapper and the smooth texture of the waffle’s outer layer made me realize this wasn’t your typical snack.
One bite of this Zenkashoin Phantom Moon had me immediately in a state of “all is right in the world.”
It’s rare that you come across something that can so strongly alter your mood, and this smooth and scrumptious waffle sandwich is forever in my hall of fame for such goods.
Various Fillings
It’s not the waffle alone that makes Phantom Moon an exceptional dessert, but the cream fillings too!
Flavors include strawberry, matcha green tea, and my personal favorite, classic vanilla.
In fact, the waffle is also flavored based on the cream filling, and it just so happens that vanilla makes for the best cream filling and waffle flavor choice!
In all honesty, if you’re ever in Kyoto’s Nijo district then I urge you to check out the Muromachi store. Otherwise, visit the Zenkashoin website and simply order your Phantom Moon box online!
To learn more about life in Japan, check out my book: The Japanese Pursuit of Perfection. This book features my most profound observations of Japanese culture and society as a foreign resident. Available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Grab your copy today!