A Pioneering Japanese Confection Since 1937
Kincho Manju was first produced in 1937 by Hallelujah Seika, a confectionery company formerly based in Komatsushima City, Tokushima Prefecture. It is recognized as the first Japanese manju to use chocolate in its outer dough, making it an innovative creation that brings together Japanese confectionery traditions and the flavor of chocolate.
The defining feature of Kincho Manju is its contrast of flavors. The outer layer contains chocolate, giving it a pleasantly bittersweet taste, while the filling is made from smooth white bean paste with a light, delicate sweetness. Rather than being overwhelmingly sugary, the combination creates a balanced flavor that appeals to fans of both traditional Japanese sweets and chocolate-based treats.
The Story Behind the Name
The name “Kincho” comes from Kincho, a legendary tanuki, or Japanese raccoon dog, featured in a local folktale known as the Awa Tanuki War. Tanuki are familiar figures in Japanese folklore, often portrayed as clever, playful creatures with supernatural abilities. Stories about these characters are part of the cultural heritage of Tokushima, historically known as Awa Province.
By taking its name from this regional legend, Kincho Manju offers more than a distinctive taste. It also provides a small connection to the local stories and traditions of Tokushima, making it an appealing souvenir for travelers interested in the culture of the area.
Explore the Kincho Manju Family
Today, Kincho Manju is produced by Hallelujah Co., Ltd., which took over the business and continues the confectionery tradition. The company also offers variations that give visitors more ways to enjoy the original concept.
Kincho Gold features dough made with wasanbon, a fine traditional Japanese sugar, and milk. Inside is a rich egg-yolk filling, and the confection is baked to create a different flavor and texture from the original chocolate-crusted manju.
Premium Kincho Manju takes the classic sweet in a more indulgent direction by adding a rich chocolate cream filling. It combines the familiar chocolate-flavored outer layer with a deeper chocolate taste inside, making it an appealing choice for chocolate lovers.
A Delicious Souvenir from Tokushima
Kincho Manju is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a regional Japanese sweet that is both distinctive and rooted in local culture. Its chocolate crust sets it apart from many conventional manju, while the white bean paste preserves the gentle sweetness associated with traditional Japanese confectionery.
Enjoy Kincho Manju with Japanese green tea for a classic pairing, or serve it with coffee to bring out the chocolate notes. Whether you choose the original, Kincho Gold, or Premium Kincho Manju, these sweets offer a delicious way to discover Tokushima’s confectionery craftsmanship and take home a taste of the region.