Basho-an (Creative Wagashi Workshop)

Located in Takimi Koji, a retro-themed street that recreates the atmosphere of old Japan, this traditional Japanese sweets shop has been beloved for generations. Since its founding in 1868, Basho-an has continued to preserve its time-honored production methods.

Its signature specialty is Hon-zukuri Warabimochi (Shoraibi Mochi). Cooked slowly in a direct-fire kettle, the warabimochi boasts a satisfyingly springy, elastic texture. Another highlight is the stone-mill experience, where customers grind premium Tanba black soybeans themselves to make fragrant kinako powder. Enjoying the freshly milled kinako sprinkled over the warabimochi makes the flavor all the more exceptional.

In summer, parfaits featuring warabimochi are especially popular. Options include a kinako parfait and a matcha parfait that pairs moist Tokachi azuki beans from Hokkaido with matcha ice cream. The menu also offers a variety of refreshing sweets such as Uji matcha shaved ice with milk and Shoraibi kakigori.

Beyond sweets, Basho-an serves food items like hayashi rice and okowa set meals. Takeout warabimochi is available in five flavors-black soybean kinako, matcha, kuromitsu syrup, sesame, and cocoa. With such an extensive lineup, it’s easy to see why visitors find it hard to experience everything in just one visit.