Ichimonjiya Wasuke

Ichimonjiya Wasuke is believed to be Kyoto’s oldest confectionery shop, founded in the year 1000. Located at the entrance to Imamiya Shrine, it has been serving visitors for more than a thousand years.

The shop is famous for aburi mochi, small rice cakes grilled over charcoal and coated in a lightly sweet white miso sauce. This unique Kyoto specialty has long been enjoyed by shrine visitors and remains one of the city’s most beloved traditional treats.

With over a millennium of history, Ichimonjiya Wasuke is not only a popular destination for food lovers but also a living symbol of Kyoto’s culinary heritage.

History

According to tradition, Ichimonjiya Wasuke was founded in the year 1000 during the Heian period.

For more than one thousand years, the shop has welcomed visitors to Imamiya Shrine, serving its signature grilled rice cakes. The famous aburi mochi is closely associated with prayers for protection from illness and good health, reflecting the shrine’s long-standing traditions.

Today, the shop continues to preserve its historic recipes and atmosphere, making it one of Kyoto’s most treasured long-established businesses.

Highlights

Kyoto’s Oldest Confectionery Shop

Founded in the year 1000, Ichimonjiya Wasuke is regarded as Kyoto’s oldest traditional sweet shop.

Famous Aburi Mochi

Enjoy charcoal-grilled rice cakes topped with a distinctive sweet white miso sauce, a specialty found almost nowhere else.

Gateway to Imamiya Shrine

Located directly along the shrine’s approach, the shop has welcomed pilgrims and travelers for over a thousand years.

A Millennium of Tradition

Few businesses anywhere in the world can claim such a long history, making this an unforgettable stop for visitors interested in Kyoto’s cultural heritage.

Visit Tips

Many visitors enjoy aburi mochi after visiting Imamiya Shrine. Across the approach is Kazariya, another famous aburi mochi shop, making it fun to compare the two historic flavors.

Nearby attractions include Daitoku-ji Temple, Funaokayama Park, and Kamigamo Shrine, making Ichimonjiya Wasuke an excellent stop while exploring northern Kyoto.