Indulge in Luxury: 5 Must-Visit Souvenir Shops in Ginza for Exquisite Japanese Confectionery

Welcome to Ginza, Tokyo’s prestigious shopping district that beckons luxury enthusiasts and discerning travelers from around the world. With its immaculate streets and glamorous storefronts, Ginza stands as a captivating paradise where traditional Japanese craftsmanship seamlessly intertwines with contemporary elegance.

In Ginza, luxury tourists are spoiled for choice with a diverse array of high-end fashion boutiques, exquisite jewelry emporiums, captivating art galleries, and opulent department stores. But what truly sets Ginza apart is its dedication to providing a wide range of luxurious souvenirs. Indulge in the delicate flavors of meticulously crafted wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets, or savor the indulgent pleasures of European pastries prepared by renowned patisseries. Join us as we unveil the top 5 luxurious souvenirs and souvenir shops in Ginza, where East meets West, tradition meets innovation, and exclusivity meets charm. Discover extraordinary treasures that reflect the essence of Japanese culture and bring home a piece of Ginza’s timeless allure.

Seigetsudo Honten

Source: Seigetsudo Honten

Founded in 1907 where its main store still stands today, Seigetsudo Honten is a revered Japanese confectionery with a rich history spanning over a century in the heart of Ginza. Steeped in tradition, this long-established establishment has captivated locals and tourists alike with its exquisite creations.

Source: Seigetsudo Honten

Seigetsudo Honten takes immense pride in their prized delicacy, the revered “Otoshibumi,” which beautifully captures the essence of unspoken love; a heartfelt love letter crumpled into a small ball. This exquisite Japanese confectionery unfolds with a delicate shell of red bean paste embracing a luscious core of yolk bean paste, harmoniously steamed to perfection. The result is a sublime fusion of soft bun-like texture and crumbly cookie-like consistency that effortlessly melts in your mouth, while the addition of wasanbon sugar elevates its refined sweetness and imparts a unique aroma.

Indulge in the captivating balance of flavors found in this remarkable treat, either as a personal indulgence or a thoughtful gift, available in sets ranging from 4 for 821 yen, 8 for 1664 yen, up to 20 for 4320 yen, all inclusive of tax.

Seigetsudo Main Store

Location:7 Chome-16-15 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30am-7pm Closed Sun & Public Holidays
Website: Seigetsudo Honten

Soke Minamoto Kitchoan

Source; Minamoto Kitchoan

Nestled along the bustling main street of Ginza, Minamoto Kitchoan stands as a haven for confectionery enthusiasts, dedicated to the art of creating exquisite Japanese sweets using the finest seasonal fruits. Each delicacy is thoughtfully crafted, paying meticulous attention to shape, contours, and the alluring aroma that captivates the senses. Their diverse range of delightful Japanese confectionery are perfect for both indulging your eyes and tastebuds in or presenting as a cherished gift to friends overseas. As you step inside, the inviting displays adorned with traditional décor create an immersive experience, allowing you to bask in the elegance of these high-end treats. Guests may also venture upstairs to the salon café, where you can indulge in a delightful array of desserts made with seasonal fruit, adding another layer of culinary delight to your journey.

Source; Minamoto Kitchoan

Among their esteemed collection of wagashi, Minamoto Kitchoan presents a standout creation known as ‘Riku no Hoju’ or the “Jewel of the Land.” Crafted using muscat of Alexandria grapes exclusively cultivated from their own farm in Okayama, this wagashi showcases the essence of this unique fruit. Wrapped within a delicate layer of soft mochi and lightly dusted with sugar, each bite offers a delightful combination of sweetness and a gentle tartness. Prepare for a burst of refreshing flavors as you savor this exquisite treat, available from early May to mid-September. Even if you miss the opportunity to indulge in this particular delight, fear not, for Minamoto Kitchoan’s ever-changing seasonal lineup guarantees a continuous array of delightful and tantalizing options to satisfy your cravings.

Minamoto Kitchoan

Location:Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 6 Chome−9−8 THE HOUSE 1F
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00am-8:00pm Sat-Sun 10:00am-7:00pm
Website: https://www.kitchoan.co.jp/en/

Tachibana Karinto

Source: Macaro-ni

Nestled within Ginza’s 8-chome district lies a venerable establishment that has been delighting locals and visitors alike since 1909 with their specialty, karinto—a sweet deep-fried snack. Tachibana Karinto proudly stands as one of the three most renowned karinto shops in Tokyo. Its allure lies not only in the expert craftsmanship that goes into its creation but also in the distinct visual appeal of the delicacy. Each piece of karinto is meticulously coated with multiple layers of white sugar, imparting a lustrous and glossy finish that transforms it into a true work of art.

Source: Macaro-ni

However, Tachibana’s karinto is not solely about aesthetics; its taste matches the elegance of its appearance. When you take a bite, you’ll be greeted with a delightful crispness and lightness, creating a textural experience that perfectly complements the flavors. What makes Tachibana’s karinto even more exceptional is its longevity. The flavors remain intact over time, thanks to the absence of additives, ensuring that you can savor every piece with peace of mind. With two enticing options to choose from, the ‘Koro’ offers a thicker and chewier texture that brings forth the original flavor of the dough, while the ‘Saeda’ boasts a thinner profile soaked with sugar, delivering a delightful combination of lightness and crispiness. To complete the experience, Tachibana Karinto are presented in simple packaging with their traditional touches, making it an ideal choice for those in search of formal and traditional Japanese sweets to give to friends, family or business partners.

Tachibana

Location: 8 Chome-7-19 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 11:00am-7:00pm Sat 11:00am-5:00pm
Sun Closed

GENDY Ginza

Source: Dessanew

Amidst the bustling streets of central Ginza, a hidden gem awaits those seeking a unique and luxurious dessert experience. Enter GENDY, a destination that has remained relatively unknown to many. Since its establishment in 2019, this premium caramel boutique has been dedicated to crafting exceptional caramel treats with a touch of sophistication, specifically tailored for gentlemen with discerning palates. While their original Aoyama store entices patrons with their delectable caramel bars, it is their Ginza location that unveils an indulgent masterpiece: the rich and luxurious Brandy Cake, a confectionery that exudes class, finesse, and above all, exceptional taste.

Source: GENDY

GENDY’s “Premium Caramel Brandy Cake” is meticulously handcrafted using carefully selected ingredients and production methods, adhering to the concept of creating a first-class product befitting a gentleman’s refined sensibilities. The dough is baked at a low temperature, resulting in a fine texture that serves as the perfect vessel for the infusion of brandy. With each bite, the harmonious union of caramel and brandy presents a delightful combination of sweetness with a lingering hint of bitterness. The brandy itself is a unique blend, carefully crafted by combining Remy Martin’s cognac and Ducastan’s Armagnac, lending the cake a depth of flavor and an aromatic allure. Priced at 8,800 yen, inclusive of tax, this is unquestionably a first-class indulgence that is sure to captivate the taste buds of both men and women alike, creating a delightful symphony of pleasure when savored alongside a cup of coffee.

Source: Dessanew

To secure a slice of the extraordinary Brandy Cake, it is recommended to make a reservation in advance over the phone or visit the store to sample this remarkable creation firsthand. The attentive staff at GENDY will ensure a memorable experience as they guide you through the flavors and assist in selecting the perfect treat to suit your preferences.

GENDY Ginza

Location: 1 Chome-4-4 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 1:00pm-7:00pm
Website: GENDY

Shiseido Parlour

Source: Shiseido Parlour

Since its establishment in Ginza, Tokyo in 1902, Shiseido Parlour has been dedicated to delivering confectionery of the utmost high quality, authenticity and presentation, garnering the adoration of countless individuals. The main store of Shiseido Parlour Ginza, located on the first floor of the Tokyo Ginza Shiseido Building, boasts an open and spacious atmosphere with its high ceilings and captivating showcase, featuring a wide array of timeless favorites.

Source: Shiseido Parlour

Shiseido Parlour’s delightful selection includes their renowned “Cheesecake,” which has captivated patrons since its introduction in 1978. These cheesecakes are meticulously crafted using carefully selected ingredients such as premium Hokkaido flour and Danish cream cheese. Encased in a delicate biscuit crust, the luscious cream cheese filling offers a heavenly experience with each bite. As the crust crumbles, the rich cheese melts effortlessly in your mouth, leaving a truly indulgent sensation. Available in convenient bite-sized portions and packaged beautifully, these cheesecakes are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them an ideal choice for gifting and savoring.

Source: Rurubu

Shiseido Parlour presents a delightful selection of confectionery that exemplifies the unique craftsmanship of a brand deeply rooted in the art of “beauty” in Ginza. In addition to their beloved signature offerings, be sure to explore their enticing seasonal treats, available for a limited time only. If you find yourself contemplating the perfect souvenir, a visit to Shiseido Parlor in Ginza is a must, where you can discover an array of exquisite sweets that encapsulate the essence of this esteemed establishment.

Shiseido Parlour

Location: Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 8 Chome−8−3 4 5F
Opening Hours: Tues-Sun 11:30 AM–9:30 PM Mon Closed
Website: Shiseido Parlour

A visit to Ginza offers a treasure trove of luxurious souvenirs and delightful confectionery. From the century-old traditions of Seigetsudo Honten and Minamoto Kitchoan to the hidden gems like Tachibana’s Karinto and GENDY’s Brandy Cake, and the renowned offerings of Shiseido Parlor, each experience promises a journey of indulgence and refined tastes. Whether you’re seeking Japanese confectionery or a blend of Western influences, Ginza’s exquisite souvenir shops have something to delight every palate and create lasting memories of luxury in the heart of Tokyo.

A Sweet Taste of Autumn in Japan: A Historic Guide to Traditional Japanese Autumn Treats

As the days become shorter and the weather begins to cool, autumn arrives in a parade of deep, earthy colors such as crimson, violet, and mustard. The challenging humidity of summer subsides and the crisp, cool air of autumn invites many Japanese residents to enjoy enriching activities such as reading, painting, hiking, and enjoying delicious, hearty dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Though foods such as fresh grilled pacific saury and soul-warming hot pots gain lots of traction, something you cannot miss are the decadent traditional sweets, or wa-gashi, that can be enjoyed especially during this season. Depending on where in Japan you are, these sweets can vary widely, which makes for the perfect gift for a loved one when traveling to these locations! Today we’ll explore a few traditional sweets popular in different Japanese regions during the autumn season, and their unique history!

Kanto 揚げまんじゅう

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Image credits: Age-manju from Asakusa Kokonoe

Our first location is the Kanto region, most popular for its cities such as Tokyo and Yokohama. Though there are a plethora of traditional sweets that have their roots here, one of the most popular is the age-manju, which is a deep-fried manju! The chef takes a manju, a small pastry cake filled traditionally with a red bean paste, and lightly coats it in batter before they fry it to a crispy golden brown color. The history of the age-manju dates back to over 100 years ago when people would place manjus as offerings inside of Buddhist altars. After some time, the manju would harden and dry out. Rather than wasting the food, people began to deep fry the manju to reheat the interior and to give it a crispy exterior for a pleasant snack.

 After over 100 years, the age-manju is enjoyed as its own specific treat, now available in a variety of flavors.Both the filling and outer batter options can vary vastly, especially during the autumn time! A few of our favorites are the red bean paste with chopped chestnut, as well as the sweet potato paste with matcha batter. Age-manju can be found in almost any gourmet-centered locations around Tokyo, such as Asakusa and Ueno, where the manju is deep-fried right in front of your eyes. For an elevated experience, we recommend trying the age-manju from the Kikunoya Flagship Store, located in Ginza. Macadamia nuts are sprinkled on top of the manju before it is deep fried to perfection using premium quality oil for a satisfying crunch. Why not enjoy this treat after visiting our flagship store as well, which is only a short 3-minute stroll away!

Kansai ぜんざい

Another epicenter of traditional Japanese sweets is the Kansai region, especially in Kyoto where they are most famous for their deep, robust Uji-matcha. Sweets in the Kansai region oftentimes are more simplistic and use less sugar to truly focus on bringing out the natural flavor of each ingredient. A hearty dessert popular in the colder months is the zenzai, a warm red bean soup accompanied by boiled or grilled mochi. The zenzai is said to have traveled from Izumo to the then-capital of Japan, Kyoto. This dish was served during Jinzaisai, or the Festival of the Visit of the Gods, a Shinto belief where all of the deities would travel to Izumo to gather once a year during the autumn months. During this festival, a special mochi, called Jinzai mochi, and beans would be offered to the dieties. Near the end of the festival, the mochi and beans were placed together in a pot to create a stew which was shared by the people of Izumo. Through the exchange of dialects, by the time the dish reached Kyoto it was known as ‘zenzai’. Limited to the autumn time, many tea houses in Kyoto that serve this dish add soft, roasted chestnuts, or even replace the red beans entirely with a chestnut paste to make a rich, creamy treat that is perfect for the colder months.

Kyoto, known for its gorgeous scenery, is even more breathtaking in the autumn with its abundant Japanese maple leaves that turn crimson red during this season. When visiting Kyoto in the fall be sure to partake in the Japanese tradition of ‘momiji-gari’, which directly translates to “Japanese maple leaf harvesting”. Despite its name, this tradition is simply the act of going outside to observe and admire the colorful leaves of autumn. We highly advise to keep in mind to dress comfortably as the best spots to partake in ‘momiji-gari’ are usually higher in the mountains. In true Kyoto fashion, these mountains have numerous tea houses for visitors to rest at and enjoy a warm cup of tea along with traditional wa-gashi, including zenzai of course!

For a comfortable, yet stylish look perfect for the chic atmosphere of Kyoto, we recommend our Ivory First Class Hoodie paired with our Taupe Relax Wide Trousers. Stay warm and active while you enjoy the mystic scenery of Kyoto without having to worry about feeling underdressed. Both the trousers and hoodie include pockets which can easily store your smartphone and smaller items, making them both the ideal travel partner!

Chubu もみじの衣揚げ

Our final destination is the Chubu Region, famous for the historic city of Nagoya, which is one of our most recent store locations!

Image credits: Ogura Toast by Visit Nagoya

Nagoya is most famous for their unique dessert that is quite simple and consists of three ingredients; toast, butter, and red bean paste. Known as ogura (red bean paste) toast, this dish is enjoyed both as a light snack or even as a breakfast food. Its history originates from the end of World War I where a quaint wa-gashi store was no longer able to purchase mochi rice due to the inflation quadrupling its prices. Simultaneously during this time, there was a ‘bread boom’, which meant an abundant amount of bread and butter were readily available, and for a discounted price. Taking this as an opportunity, the owner converted their wa-gashi store into a ‘kissaten’, or “tea-drinking shop”, which usually serves western-style food and drinks such as coffee and sandwiches, opposed to a traditional Japanese tea shop. The shop owner began serving buttered toast, which was a popular dish at that time. Shortly after, they noticed a trend of younger people ordering buttered toast with zenzai and dipping the bread into the sweet red bean stew. This was when the owner got the idea to incorporate the two dishes, creating the infamous ogura toast!

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Image Credits: Momiji Tempura by Nikkei

Speaking of momiji leaves of Kyoto, another Japanese treat is quite unique and perfect for ‘momiji-gari’ season, especially for those who may not be able to partake in the event. This must-try unique snack is deep-fried momiji leaves, perfect for the autumn season! To make these snacks, momiji leaves are harvested and pickled in salt a year prior to them being served. Then, they are deep-fried using a sweet, decadent batter to crispy perfection. This traditional snack is not only enjoyed by locals alongside a cup of warm green tea, but they make wonderfully unique and seasonal gifts! Why not pair the sweets with a warming item from kay me, such as the Peach Pink Silk Wool Cutwork Lace Scarf, for the ultimate autumn gift. The scarf is sure to keep the recipient warm as the colder months come up, and it leaves them with a special keepsake even after the sweets are eaten!

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Whether going for a stroll around your local area or traveling for business, be sure to give traditional Japanese sweets a try, especially if they offer fresh seasonal options! Traditional Japanese sweets can be found practically anywhere from the snack aisle at convenience stores to high-end shops located within boutique districts, and don’t forget to share your favorite dishes with loved ones as souvenirs.

After stopping by for a quick sweet treat, be sure to complete your trip by visiting any of our 12 stores all across Japan! All of our store locations can be found here:

https://kayme.com/stores/