Ibaraki Prefecture is accessible by car from central Tokyo in as little as one hour. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Mt. Tsukuba, one of Kanto’s most famous peaks, and the Pacific Ocean, there are many sightseeing spots for families to enjoy, including Ushiku Daibutsu Buddha, Aqua World Oarai, JAXA’s Space Center in the Tsukuba Science City, and the National Hitachi Seaside Park, which has recently gained popularity for its spectacular view of the nemophila fields. In winter, visitors can enjoy the Ume (Japanese apricot) Festival at Kairakuen Garden in Mito, and anglerfish hot pots in season. If you are at a loss to choose a souvenir during your trip, try these two products.
Asakawa “Yoshiwara tonaka
Yoshiwara-donchu is a historical confectionery that is said to have originated as a snack made by Yoshiwara, the lady-in-waiting of the palace, by frying leftover dried rice during the reign of the famous lord Ikumei (the 9th lord of the Mito domain, Nariaki Tokugawa).
We chose the products of Asakawa, one of the most famous of the Yoshiwara-denchu makers. Founded in 1872, this long-established company’s skilled craftsmen handcraft a variety of Mito souvenirs using groundwater pumped from the company’s own factory grounds.
The signature product, Yoshiwara Tonaka, is characterized by its lightness like a “ponkashi” and the aroma of soybean flour sprinkled generously on it. It is soft and crispy when you put it in your mouth, but gradually becomes chewy and delicious.
The company is particular about using only starch syrup, soybean flour, sugar, and glutinous rice as ingredients, with no additives of any kind. They also take into consideration the temperature and humidity of the day to create a unique soft texture.
© Source travel watch