Sakuramochi: The Taste of Japanese Spring

Have you enjoyed cherry blossoms in Japan? How about Japanese sweets? Perhaps you’re a bit conservative and haven't ventured into them yet. If so, would you be tempted if I told you there’s a special Japanese sweet available mainly during the cherry blossom season? It’s called Sakuramochi.

By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what Sakuramochi is—and you’ll be intrigued to try it at one of my favorite shops!

What is Sakuramochi?

Sakuramochi is a delicious Japanese sweet available during the cherry blossom season. Sakura means cherry blossoms and mochi means a soft rice cake, so sakuramochi is a delicate cherry-themed Japanese sweet!

The star of the show is anko (sweet red bean paste), which is wrapped in a fluffy, pink, crepe-like dough. It looks just like a cherry blossom! But it doesn't stop there. It is typically wrapped in a genuine sakura leaf that has been pickled in salt. When you take a bite, you enjoy a perfect harmony of salty and sweet at the same time.

Why Special During the Cherry Blossom Season?

Sakuramochi is a seasonal confectionery that tells us the arrival of spring. Cherry blossoms (sakura) are one of the highlights of the year in Japan, and we celebrate them in many ways. One of the best ways is by enjoying the view with a Sakuramochi in hand. This elegant sweet truly enhances the cherry blossom viewing experience (hanami).

Do You Need to Eat the Leaf?

It’s not mandatory! You can peel off the salty green leaf, but my recommendation is to eat it. The contrast in texture and the salty kick make it stand out from other Japanese sweets. But if you’re hesitant, feel free to have it your way!

Wait, I heard about "Domyoji"?

You’ve done your research! Domyoji is very similar but uses slightly different ingredients. While the "typical" Sakuramochi (sometimes called Chomeiji) is made from wheat flour and looks like a crepe, Domyoji is made from domyoji-ko (dried, crushed glutinous rice). This gives it a unique, sticky, and pebbly texture.

Domyoji is more common in western Japan (like Kyoto and Osaka), while the crepe-style Sakuramochi is the standard in the east (like Tokyo). However, if you're lucky, you’ll find shops that sell both!

Where Can We Get Sakuramochi?

Surprisingly, you can find them at convenience stores like 7-Eleven or in supermarkets. But for the best experience, I recommend visiting a local wagashi (Japanese sweet) shop. My bike tour typically drops in at a shop to give guests a chance to try authentic Japanese sweets! Here are a few places I’ve discovered on my rides:

Kikunoya in Tsukishima

Tucked away from the main shopping street, this local gem feels like a hidden treasure. Everything here is exceptionally fresh because it’s made right in the attached factory. They often sell out by the afternoon, so it’s best to go in the morning. Since the Sumida River and its beautiful cherry trees are nearby, why not grab some Sakuramochi and Domyoji to enjoy under the blossoms?

My bike tour can typically drop in at this shop and give you a chance to try Japanese Sweets!

Senbondo in Shibuya

Just 8 minutes away from the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, this shop sits quietly away from the hustle and bustle. You’ll be welcomed by a lovely elderly couple. There are seats available inside, so you can enjoy your sweets on the spot. They might even offer you some Japanese tea! Enjoy the sweet with a sweet couple!

Yamamotoya near Asakusa

Yamamotoya is a specialty shop dedicated entirely to Chomeiji Sakuramochi. Known as the birthplace of Sakuramochi, it boasts a history of over 300 years. You can taste the original tradition here! They also have a lovely cafe by the Sumida River. It’s a 10–15 minute walk from Tokyo Skytree or Asakusa—perfect for a scenic riverside walk.

Are You Intrigued?

Which do you prefer, the crepe-style Sakuramochi or the sticky Domyoji? Did you find the flavor "yummy" or just "interesting"? Book now and share your experience with me at Tokyo Bike Bliss!