Seven Irresistible Summer Wagashi Selections You’ll Hate to Eat

By MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network Editorial Team

Hot summer days are perfect for enjoying cool little sweets, and wagashi—delicately beautiful in appearance and elegant in flavor—is undoubtedly an excellent choice. Major Japanese confectionery shops have also launched wagashi that are exceptional both visually and in taste, satisfying both your eyes and palate as you enjoy them.

1. Kyoto Shichijo Kangensodo – Amanogawa

Inspired by the Milky Way, the renowned Kyoto shop Shichijo Kangensodo offers a limited-edition anko (sweet bean jelly), using red beans as the base and blending it with Japanese sake to create a refreshingly light flavor.

2. Kyoto Kourakuya – Kingyo-bachi (Goldfish Bowl)

From afar, it looks like goldfish gracefully swimming in a bowl. This is another wagashi created by the esteemed Kyoto shop Kourakuya, resembling a piece of art that you’d hate to eat.

Made with natural ingredients such as plums and lemons, these colorful candies are produced by the famous Kyoto shop Ochikobore Gion. They’re a popular sweet among many visitors to Kyoto.

4. Kamakura Temari – Natsu Temari

Located in Kamakura, Temari is known for its creatively shaped wagashi. Their signature traditional wagashi features vibrant and beautiful designs, adorned with gold leaf, making them not only elegant in appearance but also delicious in taste.