Mitarashi Dango in Kyoto — Local-First Sweet Born from the City’s Shrines

🟠 Local-First — Enjoy Kyoto’s Original Mitarashi Dango While Exploring Its Historic Streets.

Mitarashi dango can be found across Kyoto’s sightseeing areas—from Kiyomizu and Gion to Arashiyama and Fushimi. The photo shows a stall spotted along Sannenzaka in Higashiyama.

Last updated: 2025-11-10

Mitarashi dango stall, Sannenzaka Higashiyama Kyoto, sweet soy glaze aroma

Introduction

Mitarashi dango, skewered rice dumplings glazed with a sweet soy sauce, originated in Kyoto—said to come from the sacred Mitarashi Pond at Shimogamo Shrine. It’s one of the most walkable sweets in Kyoto, easily enjoyed on the go. While Sannenzaka in Higashiyama is a classic spot, you’ll also find freshly grilled skewers in Gion, Arashiyama, and on the approach to Fushimi Inari Shrine.

What to Try

Freshly grilled mitarashi dango — slightly charred on the outside, soft inside, with a glaze that balances sugar and soy. In Kyoto, you’ll often see five dumplings per skewer (though it varies by shop). Let it cool briefly before the first bite—the rising steam carries the aroma, and it’s perfect for a quick photo before eating.

How to Order

Order by the number of skewers at the counter. Simply say, “One mitarashi dango, please.” Some shops separate takeout from eat-here options—choose the latter for the full experience. During peak hours, many stands keep skewers semi-prepared for quick finishing, so the line moves fast.

Tokyo or Trip?

You can find mitarashi dango in Tokyo, but only in Kyoto can you taste it where it was born, surrounded by the city’s scenery. The combination of stone-paved streets, wooden townhouses, and the aroma of grilled dango is a sensory experience unique to Kyoto. Multiple shops stand within short walking distance, so take a stroll and compare a few.

Taste of Japan

Search This Blog