Wagashi refers to a wide range of traditional sweet confections made all throughout Japan. Each region has its own famous brands and styles, and Kumamoto is no exception. Here are a couple spots in Kumamoto where you can get your hands on some delicious, authentic wagashi.
Tenmeido
Just a quick train ride from Kumamoto Station in Kumamoto City’s Kawashiri district lies Tenmeido, a historic wagashi confectionery that dates back over 230 years. Now in the hands of its 8th-generation owner, Tenmeido is more than just a sweet shop—it's a journey through time. Indulge in their signature offerings: the crumbly, irresistible Tenmei Manju and the tasty Cheese Manju. For those seeking a hands-on experience, Tenmeido also hosts fun wagashi-making lessons in Japanese, English, and Spanish. See their website for more details.
Tenmeido
Address: 1-3-39-2 Kawashiri, Minami-ku, Kumamoto
Hours: 9AM-7PM
Website: https://www.kitagawa-tenmeido.com/en
Toranosuke
Toranosuke, named after the childhood nickname for Kato Kiyomasa, builder of Kumamoto Castle, is a stylish new wagashi shop located in the historic Furumachi neighborhood. Under the idea of “wagashi as art,” the shop consists of a single black counter, on which a single wagashi of each variety is displayed under a spotlight. Tell the staff which ones you’d like, and your order is packaged while you wait. Seasonal fruit daifuku and Mt. Aso-shaped yokan (available in assorted flavors) are crowd favorites.
Toranosuke
Address: 1-46 Gofuku-machi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto
Hours: 10AM-4:30PM (or until sold out) closed Mon & Thu
Tsuruya
In the bustling heart of Kumamoto City, between Suidocho and Torichosuji tram stops, stands Tsuruya, the city's premier department store. Venture to the B1 floor, where half the space is an ode to sweets – chocolates, cakes, jellies, and, of course, wagashi. Don't miss the Jindaiko at the Kobai store, one of Kumamoto's most celebrated wagashi. To the rear of the sweets section, there are also two stalls selling fresh kaiten manju. Also be sure to check out the kaiten manju shops: Horaku Manju, a local favorite that also has a shop on Kamitori, and Tsuruya's own shop featuring mini-manju crafted by an automated filler and griller machine.
Tsuruya
Address: 6-1 Tetorihoncho, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto
Hours: 10AM-7PM (until 7:30PM on Fri & Sat)
Website: https://www.tsuruya-dept.co.jp/foreign/english/index.html
