Koshindo

Standing along a street in Nogata, Koshindo fills its counter with traditional, unpretentious fresh confections and mochi treats. A notable highlight is the kusamochi, steeped in the earthy aroma of Japanese mugwort and offered with a choice of coarse tsubuan or fine koshian red bean paste to suit personal tastes. Suama, celebrated for its gentle sweetness and satisfying, springy chew, is another staple well worth picking up while visiting.

The shop also keeps pace with the seasons. Early summer brings chimaki and kashiwamochi—the latter sometimes packaged in assortments with classic tsubuan, koshian, and savory-sweet miso paste, making it easy to sample different styles side by side. Alongside dorayaki and chilled mizu-yokan, which make convenient gifts, the display features delicately sculpted, colorful nerikiri that reflect the passing months in confection form.

Greeted by the owner's welcoming service, locals find it effortless to drop in and quickly pick out something sweet for the day's tea. Except on Tuesdays, when it is closed, the shop is open from 10:00 in the morning until 17:00 in the evening.