Kyoto is famous for its traditional Japanese sweets, which make perfect souvenirs. Whether you love matcha, red bean paste, or crispy treats, Kyoto offers a variety of delicious souvenir snacks. Here are the Six best Kyoto snacks that are popular among locals and tourists alike.
1. Ajari Mochi
Ajari Mochi is a traditional Kyoto sweet made of soft, chewy rice flour dough filled with smooth red bean paste. It has a delicate sweetness and a satisfying texture, making it a favorite among visitors.
But If you don’t like Anko (red bean paste), this may not be for you.
- Mochi-style sweet with a soft texture
- Filled with smooth and lightly sweetened red bean paste
- A long-time favorite souvenir from Kyoto
▶ Visit Official Site: Ajari Mochi
2. Okoicha – Langue de Chat
This popular Kyoto souvenir features thin, crispy cookies sandwiched with rich matcha chocolate filling. The deep matcha flavor and buttery crunch make it a luxurious treat for tea lovers.
The store’s name is MALEBRANCHE.
- Crispy matcha-flavored cookies with creamy chocolate filling
- A perfect combination of sweet and bitter flavors
- Elegant packaging makes it a great gift
▶ Visit Official Site: Okoicha Langue de Chat
3. Kyo Baum – A Soft and Fluffy Matcha Cake
Kyo Baum is a layered green tea Baumkuchen cake made with Kyoto-grown matcha and soy milk. The soft texture and mild sweetness make it an ideal snack for anyone who loves matcha.
- Soft and fluffy matcha Baumkuchen cake
- Made with high-quality Kyoto matcha and soy milk
- A great souvenir for matcha lovers
▶ Visit Official Site: Kyo Baum
4. Yatsuhashi – Kyoto’s Most Famous Sweet
Yatsuhashi is a traditional Kyoto sweet made from rice flour, sugar, and cinnamon. The most popular version is Nama Yatsuhashi, which has a soft texture and is filled with sweet bean paste.
If you don’t like red bean paste, there are also chocolate options available.
- Classic Kyoto sweet with a soft and chewy texture
- Available in flavors like cinnamon, matcha, and chocolate
- Perfect for trying a traditional Kyoto treat
▶ Visit Official Site: Yatsuhashi
5. Senju Senbei
Senju Senbei are crispy, thin cookies filled with light and creamy white chocolate. The delicate texture and mild sweetness make them an excellent Kyoto souvenir.
- Crispy, light, and slightly sweet cookies
- Filled with creamy white chocolate or matcha-flavored cream
- A perfect souvenir for tea and coffee lovers
▶ Visit Official Site: Senju Senbei
6. Kyoto Black Thunder
Kyoto Black Thunder is a special version of the popular Japanese chocolate bar, Black Thunder. This treat combines the classic crunchy texture with the rich flavors of Uji matcha and sencha, offering a unique taste experience.
- Flavor: A harmonious blend of bittersweet matcha and sweet chocolate.
- Texture: Crunchy cocoa cookie pieces coated in smooth matcha-infused chocolate.
- Packaging: Available in boxes containing 12 or 20 individually wrapped pieces, making it a convenient souvenir.
▶ Visit Official Site: Black Thunder
You don’t need to visit the main store to buy these souvenirs. They are often available at department stores and Kyoto station souvenir shops. Asking at a travel information center is a good idea.
Final Thoughts
These five Kyoto souvenir snacks offer a delicious way to remember your trip. Whether you prefer chewy mochi, crispy cookies, or rich matcha treats, Kyoto has something for everyone. Don’t forget to pick up a few of these delicious sweets before leaving!
FAQ
You can buy these sweets at Kyoto Station, souvenir shops, department stores, and major tourist areas like Gion and Arashiyama.
Matcha lovers will enjoy Okoicha Langue de Chat and Kyo Baum for their rich green tea flavors.
Some, like Senju Senbei and Yatsuhashi, stay fresh for a few weeks, while Ajari Mochi tastes best when eaten fresh.
Most sweets have reasonable prices, ranging from ¥500 to ¥2,000 (3 USD to 13 USD), depending on the packaging and quantity.
