February 3 is Setsubun. Momotaro,” an old Japanese folk tale, originated in Kibi Province (present-day Okayama Prefecture) in ancient times. The Japanese custom of scattering beans to drive away evil spirits with the call “Oni wa soto, Fuku wa uchi” (the devil is outside, Fuku is inside) is said to have originated from the legend of Momotaro. Here are two cute souvenirs from Okayama Prefecture that you will want to pick up.
Yamakata Eijyudo “Kibidango
Kibidango, a famous confectionery representing the prefecture, is that “kibidango on the waist” that Momotaro shared with dogs, monkeys, and pheasants when he went to exterminate ogres.
Yamakata Eijyudo, headquartered in Okayama City, is a long-established company that has been producing and selling only kibidango dango since its establishment in 1946. The texture of the kibidango, which is made by hand by skilled staff who follow traditional methods, is characterized by its softness and gentle sweetness. The savory flavor of soybean flour sprinkled around the dumplings also adds an accent to the taste.
The packaging is designed by Okayama-based designer COCHAE and is full of playful touches, and the characters drawn on the wrappers one by one are full of charm.
© Source travel watch