In this issue, we introduce two souvenirs found in Fukuoka Prefecture. Hakata mizutaki and motsunabe, fresh seafood from the Genkai Sea, and tonkotsu ramen from yatai stalls are just a few of the “umakomons” that you can enjoy, but the best part of a gourmet trip to Fukuoka is that you have to eat it there to enjoy it. If you want to buy some as souvenirs, we recommend you try the sweets, which are also available at a high level.
Chabo Kikuchi “Umegae Mochi
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is known as the god of learning. Umegae mochi is a Japanese confectionery deeply associated with Sugawara Michizane, the god of learning enshrined there. During the upcoming exam season, when the university entrance exams begin, many worshippers visit the shrine and can be seen tasting freshly baked Umegae mochi at the gate town.
Chabo Kikuchi, located along Omotesando Avenue about 100 meters from the main torii gate, is another popular store selling umegae mochi. You can buy Umegae mochi as souvenirs on the first floor, or enjoy a set menu with a drink at the coffee shop on the second floor.
Although it is named “ume”, there are no plums in it. It is said that during the Heian period (794-1185), when Michizane was left behind in Dazaifu and could not afford to eat, an old woman nearby wrapped a millet rice cake around a plum branch and offered it to him.
© Source travel watch