Taste Auspicious-Paired Zenzai at Its Birthplace in Izumo
About this spot
Legend traces zenzai's etymology to 'jinzai' from Shinjinzai Mochi, a dish served during Kamiari Month in Izumo, with the name eventually contracted to 'zenzai.' The Japan Zenzai Academy Ichigo Branch, located on Shinmon Street, is an institution promoting zenzai culture from its birthplace of Izumo, where you can taste authentic Izumo zenzai made with plump, perfectly cooked azuki beans. The signature menu features the auspicious-paired zenzai with red-and-white mochi balls floating on top. The refined sweetness of the azuki broth mingles with the chewy mochi in straightforward deliciousness—perfect as a sweet interlude after soba. Savoring a bowl while reflecting on its legendary origins is a special treat only Izumo can offer.
Tips
Limited seating in the shop; expect a wait during early afternoon. Finish your soba lunch promptly and enter before the peak crowd for smooth service. With sweets accumulating, a short walk between courses helps prepare your palate and enhances the flavors.
Best time to visit
Approximately 45 minutes. Arriving around 12:30 p.m., right after lunch, makes seating easier.
Access & map
〒699-0711 Shimane Prefecture, Izumo City, Taisha Town, Kizuki-Minami 836-2 (島根県出雲市大社町杵築南８３６−２)
Model course featuring this spot
Izumo: A Day of Culinary Walks Celebrating Wariko Soba and Zenzai at the Temple Town Gate
Shimane
Explore features & model courses
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