Choujuan Kasuga Shop

Choujuan Kasuga Shop in Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture is a Japanese sweets shop loved by locals. You can enjoy freshly made “Ikinari Dango” delivered from the adjacent factory. “Ikinari Dango” is a signature local sweet of Kumamoto. “Ikinari” means “right away” in the Kumamoto dialect, and the name comes from how quickly it can be made.

Its simple appeal comes from sweet potato and smooth red bean paste wrapped in a thick, chewy dough and steamed. Sweet potatoes from Kumamoto Prefecture have a fluffy texture and natural sweetness, pairing perfectly with the refined flavor of the smooth red bean paste.

In addition to the classic “White,” there’s also “Black” made with brown sugar kneaded into the dough, and “Purple” made with purple sweet potato powder—plus plenty of other variations. Each one brings out the natural flavor of the ingredients, so it’s delicious to the very last bite.

Located in Kumamoto City, it’s easy to reach from major sightseeing spots. It’s a convenient stop between activities, and it’s great for takeout—making it a popular souvenir as well. If you want to enjoy Kumamoto’s traditional flavors, this is a must-visit.