Watch the high-speed mochi-pounding demonstration where the pestles move too fast to see, and savor fresh mugwort mochi
About this spot
A renowned shop for mugwort mochi located on Sanjo Street near Kintetsu Nara Station, famous nationwide for its breathtaking demonstration of ultra-high-speed mochi-pounding with pestles moving too fast to see. The speed at which craftsmen alternate striking the mallet with perfectly synchronized chants is awe-inspiring, and when a demonstration begins, crowds quickly gather and children stare wide-eyed. This skilled establishment, with a history of winning mochi-pounding speed competitions, creates freshly pounded mugwort mochi where the delicate mochi carries the fragrant aroma of mugwort and is generously coated with soybean powder. The red bean filling inside is sweetened mildly, and the taste of warm, freshly pounded mochi is exceptional. It's the perfect way to conclude a day of walking through Nara, where you can enjoy both flavor and spectacle.
Tips
About 5 minutes on foot from Kintetsu Nara Station, located near the entrance to Higashimuki Shopping Street along Sanjo Street. The high-speed mochi-pounding demonstration is not held at fixed times but occurs at intervals based on how much mochi remains, so if you want to see it, wait in front of the shop for a while or ask a staff member about the next demonstration time. Mugwort mochi is sold individually and is perfect for snacking while walking, but items sell out once the day's supply is gone, so an early visit in the evening is recommended to be safe.
Best time to visit
Approximately 30 minutes. The mochi-pounding demonstration is irregular, so allow extra time and visit early in the evening before items sell out
Access & map
〒630-8217 Hashimoto-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 29
Model course featuring this spot
Nara Park: A Classic Historical Walk with the Great Buddha and Deer
Nara
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