Momiji Manju – All About Hiroshima’s Delectable Leaf-Shaped Confection

What Is Momiji Manju

Momiji manju is a traditional Japanese confection that is shaped like a maple leaf, which is “momiji” in Japanese. It is a specialty of Hiroshima Prefecture, and is particularly associated with Miyajima Island. Momiji manju’s distinct shape is attributed to its connections to Momijidani Park on Miyajima, which is famous for its abundance of maple trees that burst into fiery shades in autumn. With the prefectural tree being the maple, momiji manju have become symbolic representations of Hiroshima.

What Does Momiji Manju Taste Like

Momiji manju is typically a sweet treat, consisting of fillings covered in a cake-like outer layer. The wrapping is spongy and soft without being overly sweet, perfectly complementing the sugary fillings. 

The traditional filling for momiji manju is “anko” (red bean paste), both chunky and smooth, but different variations have also appeared over the years. In addition to anko, popular momiji manju fillings include custard, chocolate, and matcha paste. The overall flavor is mild and comforting, with a balance between the lightly sweet outer layer and the richer filling inside.

How Is Momiji Manju Made

To make momiji manju, the batter is poured into a special molded pan, and chunks of the filling are then placed on one side. More batter is then poured on top to cover the filling, and the folding pan is closed until the momiji manju turns a mouthwatering golden-brown. There are also variations of the classic momiji manju, such as deep-frying them, which offers a new way to enjoy this confection.

The History of Momiji Manju

A theory regarding the origins of momiji manju goes that the first prime minister of Japan, Hirobumi Ito, was staying at a “ryokan” inn called Iwaso near Momijidani Park in 1906. While receiving tea at the park, he remarked how the waitress’ hands resembled beautiful maple leaves. It inspired a hostess at the inn, who overheard this, to then request the confectioner Tsunesuke Takatsu to make a maple leaf-shaped sweet. 

After much trial and error, the “momiji-gata yaki-manju” (maple leaf-shaped baked manju) was created the same year, and Takatsu received a patent for the confection in 1910, which later came to be called “momiji manju.” Though the sweet was well received, the recipe was not passed down, so the second-generation proprietor of the creator’s shop Takatsudo was unable to recreate the flavor and quality achieved by his father. After many failed attempts, the second-generation owner decided to stop selling momiji manju so as not to compromise his father’s reputation.

While other shops had been making and selling momiji manju after its creation, decades later, the third-generation proprietor of Takatsudo committed himself to offering momiji manju that lived up to his grandfather’s. After half a year of experimenting with the help of fellow confectioners in 2009, Takatsudo once again began selling momiji manju. Today, the shop, along with many others, continues the legacy of this famous Hiroshima treat.

Stay at Iwaso: Where the Idea for Momiji Manju Was Born

Iwaso, the ryokan where Hirobumi Ito is said to have stayed, opened on Miyajima in 1854. Among the throngs of tourists who visit the island every day, the inn remains a quiet haven that has retained its traditional character throughout the generations. Stepping into the dignified wooden structure feels like traveling back in time, as it holds rooms furnished with tatami mat flooring, sliding doors, and large windows that offer views of either Momijidani Park or the Miyajima townscape. The ryokan also has two “onsen” (hot springs), both with indoor and open-air baths, allowing guests to relax and unwind in a serene environment.

How to Eat Momiji Manju

Momiji manju is a simple grab-and-eat snack, so it can be enjoyed leisurely while sitting down or on the go. Specialty shops around Miyajima offer their own twists on momiji manju, which can include creative toppings such as ice cream and fillings that can feature seasonal flavors like pumpkin. A unique Miyajima treat that can be found on the menus of several establishments is “age-momiji” (fried maple), which are deep-fried momiji manju with a crispy and decadent outer layer. 

You don’t have to eat momiji manju on the spot; they are easy to find packaged and ready to take home. Since it is a popular Hiroshima souvenir, buying a box of momiji manju to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee is a great way to reminisce about a fantastic Hiroshima trip! Many pre-packaged momiji manju have a shelf life of around a couple of weeks, but be sure to check the expiration dates to make sure you’re getting a box that you can enjoy while fresh.

Where to Buy Momiji Manju

Nowadays, momiji manju can be found all across Hiroshima Prefecture, especially in highly frequented areas such as Miyajima and central Hiroshima City, where souvenir and many confectionery shops are stocked with boxes of these leafy treats. Certain cafes and specialty shops may also have sit-down areas where momiji manju can be served in delicious arrangements or with a drink.

For momiji manju that is as close to the original as possible, head to Takatsudo, a traditional Japanese confectionery shop that is run by the family of the creator of this beloved sweet. In addition to the classic original, it also sells innovative fillings such as locally sourced lemon and sake, conveniently packaged to be carried out as souvenirs. Although Takatsu’s original shop stood near Momijidani Park, it is now located only a 3-minute walk from Miyajimaguchi Station, which acts as the gateway to Miyajima from the mainland. The shop greets visitors with an orange sign and maple leaf motifs, showing off its signature product.

Get a Taste of Hiroshima Prefecture

Momiji manju are famous nationwide as a representative confection of Hiroshima Prefecture, making it a popular treat no matter the season. From the traditional recipe to fun variations, discovering different types of momiji manju can be part of the experience. Whether you’re nibbling on one while exploring Miyajima or stocking up on them as a memento of your Hiroshima trip, don’t miss savoring a piece of Hiroshima culture!

Title image: PIXTA