Toraya’s long and storied history dates back over 500 years and the company served as an official confectionery supplier to the Imperial Court in Kyoto. The brand’s Akasaka location reopened late 2018, with an impressive refurbishment – the building itself reason enough for a visit. The large glass panels of the facade allow natural light to flood the rooms, adding extra warmth and freshness to the cypress timber interior, which is dotted with ikebana flower arrangements.
Architecture aside, it won’t take you long to realise why Toraya has become one of Japan’s most revered wagashi brands. From the reception area, head to the third floor to browse and buy Toraya’s expertly crafted sweets, each resembling miniature artworks. Depending on the season, you may find a maple leaf in autumn colours, sakura mochi wrapped in a pickled cherry tree leaf, or a clear jelly filled with edible goldfish candy. If you’ve got time, take a seat in the cafe and sample a wagashi paired with Japanese tea. On the basement floor, explore the gallery with regularly changing exhibitions on wagashi culture and history to get a deeper understanding of the refined craft.