Kurikinton – A Seasonal Sweet from Tsuruya Hachiman (Osaka)
If you hear the word “Kurikinton”, you might think of the mashed chestnut dish served during Japanese New Year. But this one is different—it's a refined jōnamagashi (premium fresh wagashi) made by Tsuruya Hachiman, a long-established wagashi shop in Osaka.
What is it?
This version of Kurikinton is a seasonal sweet sold only from October 1st to 31st. It’s made with a soft shell of smooth red bean paste (koshi-an), shaped like a chestnut, and filled with a whole candied chestnut inside. It’s a beautiful blend of autumn flavor and traditional craftsmanship.
- Size: Approx. 4.5 cm diameter × 3.8 cm height
- Price: ¥476 (tax included)
- Shelf life: 2 days including the purchase date
About Tsuruya Hachiman
Founded in 1863, Tsuruya Hachiman carries on the legacy of “Toraya Iori,” a prestigious wagashi maker that once served the imperial court. Their main store is located near Takamatsubashi in Osaka. Besides seasonal sweets like this one, they also offer baked confections such as Hyakuraku and Maizuru.
Tasting Notes
The outer layer is soft and moist, with a gentle sweetness. When you bite into it, the candied chestnut inside adds a rich, earthy contrast. The texture balance between the smooth bean paste and the firm chestnut is delightful.
If you eat it on its own, it might feel a bit sweet—but paired with matcha or unsweetened green tea, it becomes just right. Personally, I thought the bean paste could be slightly more moist, and the chestnut glaze a bit more pronounced to better complement the tea.
Final Thoughts
This wagashi looks like a chestnut resting on fallen leaves—perfect for autumn. It’s a lovely seasonal treat that captures the essence of Japanese aesthetics and flavor. If you enjoy sweets that reflect the seasons, this one is definitely worth trying.
This article is also available on Medium
