Ueno Best Sweets & Snacks Souvenir Guide 2024
Ueno is a district in Tokyo's Taito ward, famous for its nature-rich Ueno Park, zoo, and museums. The area is known for its "Shitamachi" atmosphere - a nostalgic downtown vibe that attracts many visitors who often combine their trip with nearby Asakusa. With its proximity to Tokyo Station and being a Shinkansen stop, Ueno serves as a convenient base for sightseeing.
Around JR Ueno Station, beneath the elevated tracks, spreads "Ameyoko," a shopping district known for its izakaya (Japanese pubs). While Ueno is famous for its drinking establishments, it's also home to numerous shops offering sweet treats and traditional Japanese desserts. Japan's well-developed "omiyage" (souvenir) culture means there are plenty of souvenir shops. International visitors appreciate the variety of long-lasting treats they can enjoy even after returning home!
In this guide, we'll introduce shops around Ueno where you can purchase exquisite Japanese sweets as souvenirs.
Ueno's Abundance of Panda-Themed Souvenir Sweets
Taito ward, where Ueno is located, is a traditional shitamachi district with retro streetscapes. It's home to many long-established businesses, including Japanese confectionery shops with over 50 years of history. In this area, you can fully enjoy traditional Japanese sweets known as "Wagashi."
Wagashi often uses "anko" (sweet red bean paste) as a key ingredient. Popular varieties include "Daifuku" (mochi rice cakes filled with anko) and "Manjū" (steamed buns with sweet fillings). Additionally, savory "senbei" rice crackers are considered part of the wagashi family.
Ueno features numerous souvenir sweets themed after pandas, the symbol of Ueno Zoo. Pandas are Ueno's beloved mascots, and even traditional shops offer panda-themed products. The directly-connected "Ecute Ueno" shopping complex is a must-visit for panda lovers, offering an array of panda-themed souvenir sweets.
6 stores in Ueno where you can buy Japanese packaged snacks that make great souvenirs
Featured Shop Spotlight: Taishindo Kaminari Okoshi Main Store
Source:Official website
When it comes to Tokyo's famous confections, "Kaminari Okoshi" stands out. This traditional Japanese sweet combines puffed rice bound with mizuame (starch syrup) and sugar, formed into bite-sized pieces. Its distinctive crunch and aromatic sweetness create an addictive flavor that's made it a popular Tokyo souvenir nationwide.
Taishindo Kaminari Okoshi boasts over 100 years of history, crafting these treats since 1897. Their signature "Kodai" Kaminari Okoshi contains peanuts, offering both a crispy and crunchy texture. Customers can enjoy two varieties: a light sugar flavor and a rich brown sugar version. With a one-month shelf life, it makes for a perfect souvenir.
Store Information:
- Address: 4-28-2 Taito, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Closed: Sundays and holidays (Open on last Sunday of November & Sundays in December)
- Phone: 03-3832-0005
- Website: https://kodai.jp/index.html
Karintou Yushima Kagetsu (Yushima)
Source:Online Shop
Established in 1947, Karintou Yushima Kagetsu is a long-standing traditional karintou shop beloved by locals. Karintou is a Japanese sweet made by deep-frying wheat flour dough with sugar and coating it with sugar or starch syrup. With its crispy texture that provides a satisfying bite, it pairs perfectly with green tea or black tea.
Yushima Kagetsu's karintou is carefully handcrafted by skilled artisans using carefully selected ingredients. Their unique texture - crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside - is a signature characteristic of Yushima Kagetsu. The shelf life is 2 months. The kimono-inspired packaging design adds a Japanese touch that makes it a delightful souvenir.
Basic Information:
- Address: 3-39-6 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
- Business Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30-20:00 / Sat, Sun & Holidays 10:00-17:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-3831-9762
- URL: https://www.karintou-kagetsu.com/
YOKUMOKU
Source:Ecute
YOKUMOKU is a Western-style confectionery chain with stores across Japan. Their famous "Cigare" cookies are similar to langue de chat, rolled into a crepe-like shape. It's one of my favorites - the pastry emanates rich butter fragrance and offers an elegant sweetness.
At the Ecute Ueno store, you can purchase the exclusive "Panda Petit Cigare" that comes in a panda-themed tin. These slightly smaller cigare cookies are perfect as children's snacks. With its cute packaging, it's guaranteed to delight young recipients.
The 120-day shelf life is another appealing point. Even long-term travelers can confidently purchase them. Since cigare cookies can break when packed in suitcases, boxed or tin versions are recommended as souvenirs.
Basic Information (Ecute Ueno Store):
- Address: 3F, 7-1-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Business Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00-22:00 / Sat, Sun & Holidays 8:00-21:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-5826-5645
- URL: https://www.yokumoku.co.jp/
Dolce Felice
Source:KEYUCA
Dolce Felice is a specialty baked goods store. They're known for their photogenic pound cakes and mont blanc with stylish decorations. In Japan, they're popular as gifts for celebratory occasions like weddings and births.
At the Ecute Ueno store, they sell exclusive panda-themed products unavailable elsewhere. The "Petit Pound Panda" is a pound cake decorated with an adorable panda face. You can truly taste the high-quality chocolate used in these treats. With its cute packaging, it makes an especially appreciated souvenir for female recipients.
The shelf life is 14 days, so it's best to purchase these just before returning home.
Basic Information (Ecute Ueno Store):
- Address: 3F, 7-1-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Business Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00-22:00 / Sat, Sun & Holidays 8:00-21:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-5826-5640
- URL: https://www.keyuca.com/Page/shop_limited_sweets.aspx
Kakitane Kitchen
Source:Official website
Kakitane Kitchen specializes in Japan's popular snack "kaki-no-tane." These are elongated, rice cracker-like snacks with a distinctive spicy kick from chili pepper, making them a perfect accompaniment to beer and a favorite among snack enthusiasts.
At their Ecute Ueno location, you can choose from over seven varieties, including wasabi flavor for snacking and the rich-tasting "Ebi mayonnaise" (shrimp mayonnaise). When you purchase four packages, they'll present them in an adorable panda-themed box, making it an ideal bulk purchase option. With a shelf life of 150 days, these snacks make an excellent souvenir, especially for those who prefer savory treats over sweet ones.
Basic Information:
Ecute Ueno Store
- Address: 3F, 7-1-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00-22:00 / Sat, Sun & Holidays 8:00-21:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-3843-2310
- Website: https://www.toyosu.co.jp/kakitanekitchen/
Perfect for Hotels and Flights! Recommended Traditional Japanese Sweets Shops in Ueno
Usagiya
Source:You Tube
Founded in 1913, Usagiya is a venerable Japanese confectionery shop famous for its "dorayaki" - their signature product. Dorayaki consists of fluffy pancake-like outer layers filled with sweet red bean paste. Usagiya's version features honey-sweetened, juicy outer layers combined with refreshing smooth red bean paste filling.
While the shelf life is two days from purchase, I recommend eating them fresh. If time allows, consider buying some to enjoy immediately and separate ones as souvenirs. Near Usagiya, you'll find Usagiya Cafe, which serves unique Japanese-style sweets using the same premium ingredients as their traditional confections.
Basic Information:
- Address: 1-10-10 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 9:00-18:00
- Closed: Wednesdays
- Phone: 03-3831-6195
- Website: http://www.ueno-usagiya.jp/
Chikuryuan Okano Ueno Store
Source:Tabelog
Chikuryuan Okano, established in 1958, is a renowned traditional Japanese confectionery representing the Taito district. They offer classic Japanese sweets like yokan (sweet bean jelly) and kurimanju (chestnut-filled buns).
Their signature item is "Kogome Daifuku" - a generously sized sweet that's beloved by locals. Despite its large size, it's easy to eat thanks to its perfectly balanced sweetness. I personally recommend trying the yomogi (mugwort) flavor, which offers a refreshing taste unique to Japan.
Since mochi tends to harden the next day, it's best to enjoy these treats with tea back at your hotel to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Basic Information:
- Address: 3-9-1 Higashi Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 9:30-17:00
- Closed: Saturdays, Sundays, and New Year holidays
- Phone: 03-3835-4646
- Website: http://www.chikuryuan-okano.com/info.html
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Funawa
Source:Official X
When it comes to representative sweets from downtown Tokyo, Funawa's Imoyoukan (sweet potato yokan) stands out. This yokan is made by straining sweet potatoes into a firm jelly, offering a fine, smooth texture. While similar to sweet potato cake, it features a gentler and refreshing taste that sets it apart.
The "Ankodama" (sweet bean paste balls) are also highly recommended. These colorful bean paste balls come in six different flavors, including strawberry and coffee, making them look like precious jewels. I particularly love the refreshing orange-flavored ankodama!
The main store also features a café where you can enjoy authentic matcha tea along with Funawa's sweets. If you have time, this experience is definitely worth trying!
Basic Information:
- Address: 1-22-10 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 10:00-19:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-3842-2781
- Website: https://funawa.jp/
Shiretoko Factory Ecute Ueno Store
Source:Ecute
Shiretoko Factory is a sweets shop originating from Hokkaido. They're famous for their baked goods made with fresh ingredients sourced from Hokkaido.
Their signature product is the "Shiretoko Donut," which is baked rather than fried. These healthy, gentle-tasting donuts are popular among health-conscious customers. The most charming feature is the cute animals peeking out from within the donut rings – once you see them, you'll fall in love with their cuteness!
At the Ecute Ueno store, you can purchase donuts featuring Ueno's beloved panda. With various flavors including rum raisin and azuki (red bean), choosing is part of the fun!
Basic Information:
Ecute Ueno Store
- Address: 3F, 7-1-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:00-22:00 / Sat, Sun & Holidays: 8:00-21:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 0120-45-2110
- Website: https://siretoco23.com/
Tsuruse Main Store (Yushima)
Source:Official website
Tsuruse is a long-established Japanese confectionery shop founded in 1930, with over 90 years of history. While they offer various traditional sweets like dorayaki and yokan, their most popular signature product is the "Mame Daifuku" (bean-filled rice cake). Mame Daifuku is a sweet rice cake filled with sweet bean paste and whole beans, offering a sweet and salty flavor combination.
At Tsuruse, you can enjoy their simple and gentle-tasting Mame Daifuku, unchanged since their founding. The combination of carefully selected ingredients creates a moderately sweet bean paste and a simple skin made from just water, salt, and mochi rice – it's absolutely delicious. The salted beans add an extra wonderful texture to the experience.
Pro tip: Mame Daifuku pairs well with sake, so enjoying it with alcohol back at your hotel is another recommended way to experience this treat!
Basic Information:
- Address: 3-35-8 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 9:30-19:00 (Closes at 18:00 on Sundays and holidays)
- Closed: Mondays (If Monday is a holiday, closed the following day)
- Phone: 03-3833-8516
- Website: https://tsuruse.jp/
