Maruichi Kashiho

A Century-Old Wagashi Shop in Sakai, Osaka

Nestled in a charming 130-year-old building, Maruichi Kashiho is a historic wagashi (Japanese sweets) shop located just a 10-minute walk from Nankai Line’s Sakai Station. Established in 1865, this family-run confectionery has been crafting traditional Japanese sweets for over 160 years, with a strong connection to the legacy of Sen no Rikyu, the renowned tea master from Sakai. Now managed by the fifth-generation owner, Kozou Noma-san, and his son, Takahisa Noma-san, the shop continues its long-standing tradition of making exquisite wagashi, using carefully prepared homemade bean paste to achieve a delicate and refined sweetness.

Maruichi Kashiho produces an impressive 250 to 300 different varieties of wagashi each year, offering four seasonal types every ten days, amounting to 12 variations per month. Special orders are also available, allowing customers to enjoy uniquely crafted sweets tailored to specific occasions.

Beyond selling wagashi, Maruichi Kashiho also offers hands-on workshops where visitors can experience the art of making Japanese sweets. The shop’s dedication to quality and authenticity has earned it recognition for generations, including its remarkable achievement at the 1970 Osaka Expo, where it produced around 2,000 wagashi in a single day. With its shop on the first floor and a workspace above, the historic building remains a bustling hub of creativity and tradition, preserving Sakai’s deep-rooted tea culture.

Adding to the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Maruichi Kashiho are the friendly and hospitable Noma father and son duo. Takahisa Noma-san speaks fluent English, making it easy for international visitors to connect and learn about the craft. His passion for wagashi is matched by his dedication to passing on the family legacy, as he is already nurturing his young son to become the next in line, ensuring that Maruichi Kashiho’s rich tradition will continue for generations to come.

For those who appreciate Japanese confectionery, a visit to Maruichi Kashiho is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a journey into the heart of wagashi craftsmanship. Whether you’re indulging in their seasonal delicacies, joining a workshop, or simply admiring the shop’s retro charm, Maruichi Kashiho offers a taste of history and a glimpse into the artistry of traditional Japanese sweets.

Maruichi Wagashi Workshop

Maruichi Kashiho’s Wagashi workshop offers an immersive experience in the art of traditional Japanese confections, a craft they have been perfecting since 1895. Located in Sakai, the historic hometown of Sen no Rikyu, the founder of the Japanese tea ceremony, the workshop continues to preserve and share the rich heritage of wagashi making.

Workshop Experience

-Learn directly from master artisans who inherit 130 years of tradition

-Create authentic Japanese confections using their homemade red bean (ANKO) paste

-Master traditional wagashi-making techniques

-Thought by super friendly and fluent English speaking teachers

-Take home your original handmade WAGASHI

Workshop Details

Duration: 90 minutes
Fee: ¥3,300 per person (tax included)
Sessions: Reservation basis (min. 4 people)

2:00 PM ~ 3:30PM~

Types of Wagashi You Can Make

-Seasonal fresh wagashi (Namagashi)

-DAIFUKU MOCHI

More info here: 

Access to Maruichi Kashiho