Matsuya Tokiwa

Matsuya Tokiwa is a long-established Japanese confectionery shop in central Kyoto with a history spanning more than 450 years, dating back to the Eiroku era (around 1560).

The shop is best known for its signature sweet, Oseki Mochi, which has long been enjoyed as the traditional pilgrimage confection associated with Jonangu Shrine. Handmade using techniques passed down through generations, its simple yet refined flavor continues to delight both locals and visitors.

As one of Kyoto’s oldest wagashi shops, Matsuya Tokiwa represents the city’s enduring tradition of Japanese confectionery craftsmanship.

History

Founded during the Eiroku era (1558–1570), Matsuya Tokiwa is among Kyoto’s oldest surviving confectionery shops.

Over more than four centuries, the shop has preserved its traditional recipes through periods of war, political change, and natural disasters, remaining dedicated to Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage.

Its most famous specialty, Oseki Mochi, became closely associated with visitors to Jonangu Shrine. Made with soft rice cake, smooth sweet red bean paste, and roasted soybean flour, it has remained a beloved local delicacy for generations.

Today, skilled artisans continue to prepare the sweets by hand while honoring traditions that have been preserved for over 450 years.

Highlights

More Than 450 Years of History

Founded around 1560, Matsuya Tokiwa is one of Kyoto’s oldest traditional confectionery shops.

Famous Oseki Mochi

Its signature rice cake combines soft mochi, smooth red bean paste, and fragrant roasted soybean flour.

Traditional Sweet of Jonangu Shrine

Oseki Mochi has long been enjoyed by pilgrims visiting the historic shrine.

Time-Honored Craftsmanship

Traditional production methods have been carefully handed down through generations.

Experience Kyoto’s Wagashi Culture

The shop offers an authentic taste of Kyoto’s centuries-old confectionery tradition.

Visit Tips

Oseki Mochi often sells out early in the day, so visiting in the morning is recommended.

Its convenient location also makes it easy to combine with sightseeing around the Kyoto Imperial Palace or Nijo Castle. The sweets are a popular souvenir and an excellent way to experience Kyoto’s traditional food culture.

Specialty

Oseki Mochi, the signature sweet of Matsuya Tokiwa, has been enjoyed as the traditional specialty of Jonangu Shrine since the Edo period. Each soft rice cake is filled with smooth sweet red bean paste and generously coated with fragrant roasted soybean flour (kinako), creating a simple yet refined flavor. The chewy texture of the mochi, the delicate sweetness of the bean paste, and the rich aroma of the kinako come together in perfect harmony. A beloved treat for generations, Oseki Mochi remains an essential part of the Jonangu Shrine visiting experience and a cherished taste of Kyoto’s confectionery tradition.