A Taste of Japan: Fresh Mochi in Nara

Nara is famous for many reasons. It was once the capital of Japan and therefore it boasts many cultural and world heritage sites. Nara is also home to the fastest mochi pounders in Japan, the Nakatanido mochi shop in downtown Nara city.

Nakatanido is the home of the fastest mochi, (Japanese rice cakes) makers in Japan! When you visit this shop you can see for yourself, the world record speed of mochi making.

Most of the mochi balls, (Japanese rice cakes) are made with an automated machine that spits out perfectly formed mochi balls.

The cost of tasting one of these delicious creations is very reasonable. Ranging from ¥180, ($1.20US) for one to ¥2,880, ($19.20US) for 16! Most people who visit this amazing shop buy a pack of multiple cakes to take home and a fresh one to eat on the spot!

The mochi produced by this shop is called yomogi mochi. Yomogi also known as mugwort, is a wild plant grown in Japan. It gives the mochi its green color as well as its amazing and unique taste. Inside the mochi you will find a sweet red bean paste. On the outside of the mochi, a final dusting of kinako, (roasted soybean powder) powder is the perfect accent. The combination of the unique taste of the yomogi with the red bean paste and the dusting of kinako make the perfect bite!

I recommend getting to the shop as early as possible because thousands of tourists flock to this shop daily! Whether you try just one or buy a whole pack to bring back to your hotel with you, you won’t regret the experience! The mochi are great for two to three days after purchase but should be eaten as soon as possible.