🛍️ Nakatado中谷堂

Nakatakudo is a traditional wagashi shop famous for its quick mochi pounding. It starts with a loud "Haiyo!" shout, followed by the rhythmic sounds of "Pah! Pah!" as the mochi is pounded. The speed of the pounding increases, and the surrounding tourists erupt in cheers. However, this is not just a simple performance; it is a traditional mochi-pounding method passed down from the shop owner's hometown, Kamikitayama Village in Nara Prefecture, showcasing the original softness and chewiness of the mochi. The shop emphasizes not only the method but also has strict standards for its ingredients. It selects high-quality glutinous rice from Saga Prefecture, premium red beans from Tokachi in Hokkaido, tender mugwort shoots from Uwajima in Ehime Prefecture, and various other carefully chosen ingredients, including domestically produced soybean flour. The fragrant mugwort paired with the moderately sweet red bean filling is a perfect match. In addition to mugwort mochi, there are about nine types of senbei, making them ideal snacks for a stroll around the streets. Located in Nara City, a well-known tourist destination in Japan, the shop's unique mochi-pounding performance is beloved by fans from all over Japan and foreign tourists alike.

If the timing is right, you can watch the quick preparation of mochi on-site. Made with carefully selected high-quality mugwort, the mochi is perfectly portioned for easy enjoyment while strolling on the street.