Yasunaga Mochi is a traditional Japanese confectionery from Kuwana, a historic post town on the Tokaido Road that flourished as a gateway to Ise. During the Edo period, the town welcomed pilgrims traveling to Ise Jingu and feudal lords journeying along this important route. Yasunaga Mochi became a popular local specialty enjoyed by travelers from all walks of life. Because of its distinctive elongated shape, it was also said to be known as Ushi no Shita Mochi, meaning “ox-tongue mochi.”
This simple yet satisfying Japanese sweet consists of soft rice cake wrapped around a delicately sweet red bean paste filling. The mochi is stretched into a flat, elongated shape and lightly grilled, giving its surface a subtle golden-brown finish and a gently toasted aroma.
Yasunaga Mochi is made without artificial coloring or additives. Because it contains no preservatives, it generally keeps for around two days at room temperature. If the mochi becomes firm over time, lightly warming it in a frying pan can restore some of its softness and bring out its appealing toasted flavor.
You can sample this historic confection at established local confectionery shops in Kuwana. Nagamochiya Roho traces its origins to Yasunagaya, in the Yasunaga area of Kuwana, which prospered as one of the Tokaido’s most important post towns. Another well-known maker is Yasunaga Mochi Honpo Kashiwaya, a traditional Japanese confectionery shop that has continued the practice of making each piece by hand since the Edo period.
With its soft texture, gentle sweetness, and lightly grilled surface, Yasunaga Mochi offers a delicious connection to the history of Kuwana and the travelers who once passed through this bustling post town on their way to Ise.