In addition to Nagatoya, Kumanoya (菓子司 熊野屋 七日町店) is another traditional confectionery maker we love. Unlike the sweets sold in Nagatoya, many of Kumanoya’s sweets are perfect for eating while walking. Opened in 1887, Kumanoya is known for its street-food-style sweets. There is also an eat-in space for those who want a tea break. The staff most likely would serve you a cup of tea when you rest there!
The Must-Try Sweets at Kumanoya
For example, its signatory sweet is Dorayaki (どら焼). Apart from the red bean paste, different flavored fresh cream is sandwiched by the castella paddies. As the paddies are carefully hand-baked, they are fluffy and add to Dorayaki’s deliciousness. It may look to have too much flavor at first glance, but Kumanoya’s Dorayaki is surprisingly light-tasted and will be down your stomach in no time! The fresh cream is creamy and rich. Somehow, it goes really well with the less-sweetened red bean paste.
Another must-eat at Kumanoya is the Shichifuku Dango (七福だんご). The seven colors of the rice cake skewers represent seven different flavors: smashed bean paste, smooth bean paste, walnut, white sesame, black sesame, soybean powder, and Zunda (smashed edamame beans). The idea of the sweet came from the Seven Lucky Gods in Nanukamachi. Using the Koshihikari rice from Aizu, the rice cake’s texture is softer and gentle.
Moreover, limited-edition dango skewers are available on weekends and public holidays. We especially recommend the Shingorō-mochi (しんごろう餅). It is most tasty when it is still warm. The combination of sweetened miso paste and rice is the best.
For those who are after a confectionery special to the Aizu region, go for the Jyōyō Manjū (薯蕷饅頭). The sweet is served at the tea sessions held at Rinkaku (茶室 麟閣), in Tsuruga Castle (鶴ヶ城). The tea room was built by Sen no Rikyū’s son, Sen no Shoan (千少庵).
Apparently, no water is used to make the confectionery’s skin. Only Chinese yam (つくね芋), sugar, and rice powder are used. Red beans’ skin is scrape off before they are made into the red bean paste.
Sen no Rikyū (千利休) is the founder of Japan’s tea school.
Kumanoya Nanukamachi’s Business Hours and Access Information
- Kumanoya Nanukamachi is a 2-minute walk from Nanukamachi Station (七日町駅).
- They also have a shop inside Pivot Aizuwakamatsu, a 1-minute walk from JR Aizu-Wakamatsu Station (会津若松駅).
Discover the Stunning Scenery Along the Tadami Line
The Nanukamachi-dōri Street, where Nagatoya is located, is the starting point of Japan’s most stunning train line, the Tadami Line. From the local train’s window, which runs through the mountains, breathtaking natural views unfold one after another throughout the year. Several tourist spots worth checking out are also dotted along the Tadami Line, enriching your visit to Japan’s rural towns.
So, refer to our Tadami Line article for more information on expanding your itinerary to include a couple of scenic spots!
