Warabi mochi on a skewer—soft, jelly-like cubes dusted with fragrant kinako—easy to enjoy right in Togoshi-Ginza.
Last updated: 2025-12-07
Introduction
Warabi mochi is a classic sweet originally from the Kansai region. It consists of translucent, bouncy cubes coated in kinako (roasted soybean flour).
At Tsuzumi Dango in Togoshi-Ginza, there is a bench right in front of the shop—making it the perfect spot to take a quick break while strolling through the shopping street.
๐ก Did You Know?
A Snack with a Royal Title?
Warabi Mochi might look like a simple street snack, but it has a noble history.
Legend has it that over 1,000 years ago, Emperor Daigo loved this sweet so much that he granted it an official court rank called "Tayu."
So when you enjoy this humble treat, you are tasting a dessert that once charmed an Emperor!
My Memory
Whenever I pass by this shop, I am always surprised to see groups of young people gathering outside.
I used to think of wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) as something for the older generation, but seeing high schoolers and young couples happily eating dango here changed my mind.
It seems a quiet "Wagashi Boom" is happening in Tokyo. Watching the younger generation rediscover these simple, traditional tastes makes me feel happy that this culture is alive and well.
What to Try
Warabi Mochi Skewer
Enjoy the toasty aroma of kinako (roasted soybean flour) and a texture that is distinctively tender and bouncy rather than chewy.
Mitarashi Dango
The Mitarashi Dango here comes in a cute style with just two dumplings per skewer.
It is the perfect portion size for when you aren't fully hungry but want a little sweet snack to keep you going. The glossy sweet soy glaze pairs perfectly with the soft rice cake.
Tokyo or Trip?
๐ข Great-in-Tokyo — Great experience you can enjoy in Tokyo.
Togoshi-Ginza blends everyday local life with easy treats for visitors. Along one compact street you’ll find regional flavors and simple Japanese sweets—no travel needed to taste a bit of tradition. That’s why this experience is Great-in-Tokyo.
Explore Nearby
- Tokyo Oden at Togoshi-Ginza ๐ข
- Tenshin Chahan in Togoshi-Ginza ๐ณ
- Korokke in Togoshi-Ginza ๐ฅ
- Kaisendon in Togoshi-Ginza ๐
- Taiyaki in Togoshi-Ginza ๐
Similar Dishes
External Links
- Warabi Mochi (Recipe & Cultural Notes) — Just One Cookbook ๐
- Togoshi-Ginza Shopping Street Official Site ๐
About "Taste of Japan"
Hello, I'm Yuta.
Born in landlocked Yamanashi and having lived in the gourmet city of Sendai for 10 years, I now call Togoshi-Ginza home. My frequent business trips across Japan allow me to constantly explore the diversity of regional flavors.
Why Togoshi-Ginza?
This street is Tokyo’s longest shopping arcade (about 1.3 km), but it holds a special history. It was the very first street in Japan to adopt the "Ginza" name—a tradition that later spread across the country—after receiving bricks from the famous Ginza district following the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake.
My Wish as a Local
I am not a culinary expert. However, as a Japanese local who knows both the convenience of Tokyo and the origins of regional food, I want to share the "atmosphere" and "personal feelings" that you won't find in standard guidebooks.
The Concept: "Tokyo or Trip?"
Visiting every region of Japan in a single trip is nearly impossible. Some food experiences are worth the travel to the source, while others offer a fully satisfying experience right here in Tokyo.
This blog is a guide to help you make that choice. Based in Togoshi-Ginza, I share my honest experiences and "my personal answer" to help you maximize your culinary journey in Japan.
- ๐ Local-First: Best experienced in its home region. Worth a trip.
- ๐ข Great-in-Tokyo: A nationwide favorite or regional specialty that offers a fully satisfying, authentic experience right here in Tokyo.
- ๐ฃ Tokyo-Do-Must: A unique food culture born in or exclusive to Tokyo.