Recommended Japanese Souvenirs
Recommended Wagashi Shops in Kyoto for International Otaku Fans
Hello, everyone!
I'm Lily from Préffy!
Winter has officially arrived in Japan. With chilly mornings and evenings but warm days, I often find myself struggling to decide what to wear! (Haha) I imagine that everyone overseas is experiencing their own seasonal vibes—whether it’s winter or summer where you are.
Expanding my perspective as I share with people worldwide truly makes me feel like my heart is growing broader. 💓
Today, I’d like to introduce a wagashi (Japanese sweets) shop that I highly recommend to international otaku fans who may visit Japan someday! ✨
🌟 First, a Little Background...
I’m from Kansai, so this time I’ll focus on shops in the Kansai region. Of course, when it comes to a destination that overseas visitors would want to explore first, it has to be Kyoto, right?
So today, I’ll introduce a shop in Kyoto! ✨
The shop is:
🌟 Ichimuan Daifuhendou: The Sword and Samurai Yokan Shop 🌟
This unique shop creates wagashi inspired by historical themes, such as samurai, the Sengoku (Warring States) period, and even the Genji Monogatari (The Tale of Genji), featured in the current NHK Taiga Drama Hikaru Kimi e.
Whether you’re a history fan or simply enjoy Japanese culture and anime based on history, I believe this shop will fascinate you! Ichimuan Daifuhendou operates in Kyoto’s Sagano Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari areas.
Now, let me introduce five carefully selected products, blending perspectives unique to Japanese culture.
1. Sword Samurai Yokan - 2nd Edition Packaging: Ichigo Hitofuri Kichimitsu (Matcha Flavor)
This yokan features gorgeous packaging and a quintessentially Japanese matcha flavor! Inspired by swords, this product was so popular during the Kyoto National Museum's Sword Exhibition that it often sold out.
Matcha is beloved in Japan, making this an irresistible choice for fans of Japanese sweets!
2. Bakumatsu Yokan: Sanan Keisuke (Ogura Flavor)
This yokan is inspired by the Shinsengumi and features packaging perfect for souvenirs! 💙
The Shinsengumi has a deeply rooted fanbase in Japan, and I’m one of those fans! This connection stems from Takarazuka Revue, which frequently performs works featuring the Shinsengumi. Some of my favorite stars have portrayed these historical figures, making them extra special to me.
Sanan Keisuke, one of the founders of the Shinsengumi alongside Kondo Isami, served as vice-commander and later commander. While his eventual seppuku remains shrouded in mystery, he’s a revered figure among Shinsengumi fans.
This yokan, with its warm and unique Ogura (red bean) flavor, offers a taste of something you can only experience in Japan.
3. Genji Monogatari Yokan: Hikaru Genji
Currently popular in Japan thanks to the NHK Taiga Drama Hikaru Kimi e, The Tale of Genji is a familiar story learned by Japanese students in school. My parents are hooked on the drama as well! (Haha)
The costumes and world-building are beautifully crafted, so I recommend watching it on NHK On-Demand if you get the chance.
This yokan features Hikaru Genji, the protagonist of The Tale of Genji. A word of caution—eating it might turn you into a playboy like Genji himself!
4. Court Yokan: Abe no Seimei
Abe no Seimei, the legendary onmyoji (master of yin-yang divination), is a prominent figure in Japanese history and culture. He has appeared in games, anime, and even Yuzuru Hanyu’s figure skating performances.
While he may not be as widely known internationally, I believe he has a niche yet passionate fanbase abroad, which is why he made it into my top five picks! The elegant packaging adds to its charm.
5. Samurai Yokan: Oda Nobunaga (Chestnut Flavor)
Oda Nobunaga is arguably the most popular samurai from the Warring States period—or at least that’s my personal opinion!
That said, samurai preferences can be polarizing. If you’re not a fan of Nobunaga, I apologize! However, for those who are, this yokan is a must-try.
Other notable samurai like Tokugawa Ieyasu and Toyotomi Hideyoshi are also represented, so why not collect them all?
Final Thoughts
What did you think of my top five recommended yokan from Ichimuan Daifuhendou?
If you ever visit Japan and find yourself in Kyoto’s Arashiyama area, I highly recommend stopping by! 💓
If you have a favorite historical figure, please share it in the comments!
Thank you for reading, and I hope you’ll enjoy exploring Japanese culture and wagashi with Préffy. Stay tuned for more recommendations in our next update!
How does this translation look? Let me know if there are any specific areas you’d like refined! 😊
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Lily 🌷•°`☆