Mochi is one of Japan’s most iconic delicacies and an amazing souvenir choice to take back home. Here are my mochi souvenir recommendations!
Mochi is a beloved Japanese sweet encompassing a chewy rice cake with a filling of varying flavors and ingredients. Traditionally, mochi would be filled with anko which is a sweet red bean paste, but in modern times we now have endless flavors of mochi that has significantly increased its universal appeal.
Yatsuhashi Mochi – My Personal Favorite
While mochi is typically made with a thick rice flour exterior, my personal favorite is these thinner mochi layers known as yatsuhashi. If you’re someone who enjoys the filling more than the dough, like a thin crust pizza lover, then this is the mochi equivalent!
This store called Higashiyama Yatsuhashi Honpo (東山八ツ橋本舗) is by far my favorite mochi store of all time. There are a few branches in Kyoto including one near Kiyomizu-dera Temple near Ninenzaka street. I strongly recommend the cinnamon one as it completely transformed my perspective of mochi from a mild admiration to a deep-rooted love.
Other notable flavors include black sesame, pandan, matcha, and chocolate. This store also has a few unconventional flavors such as wine, though it likely contains alcohol so keep that in mind.
Kansai Airport Souvenir Stores
A surprisingly great place to buy mochi souvenirs is at Osaka’s Kansai Airport.
It might seem like a basic or mainstream place to buy from, but when it comes to wrapped souvenir gifts to take home, Japan doesn’t skimp on quality.
The matcha strawberry mochi combination seems to be a favorite souvenir choice.
Understandably so, of course, as it can appeal to matcha lovers as well as those who aren’t quite accustomed to the bitterness and would rather settle for the strawberry!
Can’t Decide? Mix It Up!
Deciding on a flavor of mochi to take home can be a daunting task, after all, there’s so much to choose from!
To save yourself filling up an entire suitcase with boxes of mochi, I’d recommend getting a few boxes of mixed variety flavors.
This one I picked up from Higashiyama Yatsuhashi Honpo (my fave store) has four flavors including cinnamon, matcha, chocolate, and strawberry.
Sometimes a one-size-fits-all is the way to go!
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