Bairin-dō

People who have tried the mame daifuku often mention its soft mochi, thin outer layer and generous tsubuan, or chunky red bean paste. Some describe it as gently sweet, while others note a hint of salt that adds contrast. Despite being filling, it has also been praised as light to eat. If you’re trying just one of Bairin-dō’s sweets, its popular mame daifuku is a strong choice.

For a sweet-and-savoury flavour, try the mitarashi dango. Visitors have enjoyed its fragrant char marks and slightly salty sauce. You could pick one up alongside mame daifuku or kusa daifuku and compare the textures of the mochi. Seasonal kashiwa mochi has also been reported in several fillings: tsubuan, smooth koshian and miso paste, offering a range of options for those with a sweet tooth.

The selection extends beyond sweets to kirimochi and okowa rice, including sekihan. The mochi can be grilled or simmered, and some customers have bought varieties flavoured with sesame, aonori seaweed or millet. It’s a useful stop whether you’re choosing a Japanese sweet or looking for mochi to serve with a meal. Bairin-dō is a Japanese confectionery shop in Higashimukōjima, Sumida City. It accepts cash only, closes on Wednesdays and is listed as open from 9:00 to 18:00.