What is Momiji Manju? — Hiroshima’s Iconic Souvenir Sweet
When you visit Hiroshima Prefecture, one of the must-try local specialties is “momiji manju”.
A Hiroshima confection shaped like a maple leaf, made from castella-like batter filled with sweet red bean paste,
it is loved by many visitors for its beautiful shape and gentle sweetness.
In particular, Miyajima (Itsukushima) is known as the birthplace of momiji manju.
When you visit the island’s symbol, Itsukushima Shrine,
we recommend enjoying a freshly baked momiji manju!
In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the history, classic flavors, unique variations, and recommended shops for momiji manju.
History and Origin of Momiji Manju
The birth of momiji manju dates back to the Meiji era.
At that time, a wagashi (Japanese confection) artisan developed it for tourists visiting Miyajima.
Why is it shaped like a maple leaf?
Miyajima in Hiroshima is home to a famous autumn foliage spot called “Momiji-dani” (Maple Valley),
where you can enjoy beautiful fall colors.
Inspired by this,
the proprietress of the Miyajima inn “Iwaso” reportedly suggested,
“Wouldn’t it be lovely to have a confection shaped like a maple leaf?”
Based on that idea, local wagashi shops developed the sweet,
and it spread as a popular tourist specialty known as “momiji manju”.
Types of Momiji Manju — From Classics to Unique Flavors!
Momiji manju actually comes in a wide variety of variations!
1. Classic momiji manju (smooth an / chunky an)
The most common are momiji manju with koshian (smooth red bean paste) or tsubuan (chunky red bean paste).
The refined sweetness of koshian and the enjoyable texture of tsubuan are both enduring favorites.
2. Cream types (custard, chocolate, matcha)
・ Custard momiji manju → tastes like a Western sweet and is popular with younger people
・ Chocolate momiji manju → moderately sweet and great as a souvenir
・ Matcha momiji manju → a refined, Japanese-style flavor for adults
3. Freshly fried “Age-momiji” (fried momiji)
A popular item on Miyajima is “age-momiji”.
By battering and frying the momiji manju, the outside becomes crispy while the inside stays fluffy!
They are served hot, so this is a must-try when you’re there.
4. Unusual flavors (cheese, lemon, choco-banana)
Recently, cheese, lemon, choco-banana and other
innovative flavors have appeared!
Especially, momiji manju made with the Hiroshima specialty Setouchi lemon is
refreshingly sweet and popular with women.
4 Must-Visit Momiji Manju Shops in Miyajima & Hiroshima
1. Nishikido (a leading long-established Hiroshima maker)
Location: Hiroshima City
Hours: 9:00–19:00
Features: A long-established maker representative of Hiroshima. Their red bean paste is superb!
2. Yamadaya (popular shop on Miyajima)
Location: Miyajima
Hours: 9:00–18:00
Features: Offers a wide variety of flavors like cream, chocolate, and matcha
3. Fujiya (offers handmade momiji manju experiences)
Location: Miyajima
Hours: 9:00–18:00
Features: An interactive shop where you can enjoy making momiji manju by hand
4. Momijido (the originator of age-momiji)
Location: Miyajima — Omotesando Shopping Street (e.g., Momijido Nibanya)
Hours: 10:00–18:00
Features: Famous as the originator of “age-momiji,” momiji manju served tempura-style.
Traveler Tips
1. Where can you buy momiji manju?
Area highlights — Around Hiroshima Station: lots of souvenir momiji manju available Miyajima (around Itsukushima Shrine): enjoy freshly baked & fried momiji manju Department stores in Hiroshima City: assortments from famous shops are available
2. Typical price range for momiji manju
The general price is about 100–150 yen per piece.
Sets of 10 are commonly sold for around 1,000 yen.
3. How long do momiji manju keep?
・ Regular momiji manju → Shelf life is about one week
・ Cream types (custard, chocolate) → Shelf life 3–5 days
・ Fried momiji (age-momiji) are best eaten the same day!
Summary & Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
- Momiji manju is a signature confection of Hiroshima and Miyajima!
- Koshian and tsubuan are classic, but matcha, cheese, and other unique varieties are also popular.
- On Miyajima you can also enjoy freshly made “age-momiji” (fried momiji)!
- You can buy them in Hiroshima city and on Miyajima, making them perfect souvenirs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is the best place to buy momiji manju?
A: You can buy them at Miyajima’s shopping streets and souvenir shops around Hiroshima Station. For freshly baked ones, Miyajima is recommended!
Q: Can you eat age-momiji in Hiroshima City?
A: They are basically limited to Miyajima, but some shops in Hiroshima City also offer them.
Q: Is it okay to warm up momiji manju before eating?
A: Yes! Warming them in a microwave or toaster oven makes them even more delicious.
Finally
If you visit Hiroshima, be sure to try momiji manju!
From simple red bean fillings to inventive varieties, there’s a wide range of flavors to enjoy.
