For those looking for thoughtful New Year’s souvenirs from the Kamakura, Zushi, and Hayama areas:
We’ve carefully selected a range of traditional and Western sweets around 1,000 yen, perfect for the start of the new year. From the elegant wagashi that evoke the charm of Kamakura, to high-quality gateaux from long-established shops in Zushi and Hayama, each item is easy to gift and sure to bring joy to the recipient. These treats can also be enjoyed as small everyday luxuries. All of them are visually stunning, making them ideal for New Year’s celebrations. Why not deliver a warm, heartfelt gift along with your New Year’s greetings?

Marlow‘s “Biscotti”

12 pieces, 1,350 yen.

Volume: ★★★★
Packaging: ★★★★★
Flavor: ★★★
Luxury: ★★★★
Novelty: ★★★＋／(^o^)＼

Marlow, famous for its Beaker Pudding, offers not only biscotti but also generous portions of pudding. With seasonal flavors, it has many loyal pudding fans. However, during the New Year’s season, the long-lasting “Biscotti” is a perfect recommendation. In fact, the “Marlow Uncle’s New Year’s Gift” voucher is randomly included, and if you’re lucky enough to find it, you can exchange it for a pudding (up to 1,200 yen).

Marlow also has locations in Tokyo, with the Akatani Main Store and Hayama Marina Store offering dining options, parking, and making for great destinations for a drive. The stores carry wine, specialty ingredients, and beautiful original merchandise.

Kamakura Goro Main Store KAMAKURA Cha no Fuku
“Matcha Chocolate Sandwich”

5 pieces, 972 yen (tax included).

Volume: ★★★
Packaging: ★★★
Flavor: ★★★
Luxury: ★★★
Novelty: ★★★★

Kamakura Goro, famous for its “Hantsuki” (Half-Moon) sweets, also features the “KAMAKURA Cha no Fuku” Matcha Chocolate Sandwich at its main store. This delightful treat is still a relatively new addition, so many people may not yet be familiar with it. Located on Komachi Street, leading to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, this confectionery shop offers a lineup that will surely excite matcha lovers, with its adorable green packaging adding to the charm.

Mameya‘s “Seasonal Bean Snack Set – Shofuku Mame Fuku”

1,080 yen (tax 80 yen).

Volume: ★★★★
Packaging: ★★★
Flavor: ★★★★
Luxury: ★★★
Novelty: ★★

“Mameya” on Komachi Street offers the fun of tasting different flavors while selecting your favorites. This pouch contains individually packaged bean snacks in various flavors, making it highly recommended.

It’s light to carry and has a modest appearance, but when you open it, you’ll be surprised by how much is inside! Once you find your favorite flavor, you can visit the store to enjoy an entire bag of that flavor.

Toshimaya‘s “Hato Sabure” (Pigeon Shortbread) – 6 pieces.

972 yen (tax included).

Volume: ★★★★★
Packaging: ★★★★★
Flavor: ★★★★★
Luxury: ★★★
Novelty: ★★

A true Kamakura classic, “Hato Sabure” (Pigeon Shortbread). It’s always delicious, with a satisfying volume and a great design. The packaging, along with every detail, has a high level of refinement, making it a proud Kamakura confection.

The 6-piece pack is the perfect amount for New Year’s gifts. The story of the rickshaw printed on the back of the package also conveys the deep love for Kamakura that the company holds as a local representative.

For companies with many employees, the 34-piece large tin box makes a great souvenir. The empty tin box is sure to become a coveted item!

romi umi‘s Mélange Box

1,290 yen (tax included).

Volume: ★★
Packaging: ★★★★★
Flavor: ★★★★★
Luxury: ★★★
Novelty: ★★★★

A cute shop that stands out on Onarimachi Street, where jars of confiture (jam) are lined up in rows. The store, popular in magazines, reflects the owner’s unique world view, with every detail thoughtfully arranged. The sable cookies, made from high-quality ingredients, have a delightful taste that showcases the quality of their raw materials. They have a shelf life of about one week, making them perfect if you have plans to meet someone soon.

Nagashima Family’s “Kiri Sansho” (Sliced rice cake in Japanese Pepper)

710 yen (tax included).

Volume: ★★★★
Packaging: ★★
Flavor: ★★★★
Luxury: ★★
Novelty: ★★★

Traditional “Kiri Sansho” (Sliced rice cake inJapanese Pepper). The peppery kick of sansho makes it a refined and stylish New Year’s gift. Made using the same traditional method passed down through the years, it has a subtly sophisticated flavor. The shop is a long-established, small Japanese sweets store located just off Komachi Street, a short walk from the station in Kamakura.

La Maree de Chaya‘s
Japanese Red Tea Cake (3 pieces)

1,080 yen (tax included).

Volume: ★
Packaging: ★★★★★
Flavor: ★★★★
Luxury: ★★★★★
Novelty: ★★★★

La Maree de Chaya, with its main store in Hayama and a strong presence across Kanagawa, offers a variety of new sweets.

Perfect for gifts, they offer a selection of baked goods with a good shelf life, as well as many types of fresh sweets (cakes). Every year during this season, I rely on them. This year’s new tea-scented, moist cake has a strong, aromatic tea fragrance and comes in a beautifully designed, high-end package.

Measuring around 12-13 cm in a square shape, it’s small enough to not be cumbersome, which is a pleasant touch.

Suzukiya‘s Special Castella (10 pieces)

1,080 yen (tax included).

Volume: ★★★★★＋★
Packaging: ★★
Flavor: ★★★★★
Luxury: ★★★
Novelty: ★★

Suzukiya, a supermarket beloved by residents in the Zohya area, is known for its carefully selected products, making it a local favorite.

While it carries many higher-end products, the store’s original items maintain high quality while remaining affordable.

This moist castella is satisfying and straightforwardly delicious. It’s easy to share thanks to the pre-cut slices, making it a great option for everyday enjoyment.

The post New Year’s souvenirs around 1,000 yen from Kamakura, Zushi, and Hayama (2025) first appeared on KAMAKURA & ZUSHI Seasonal Updates.

September 2025 Seasonal up date

How often do you go to Starbucks? If you’re thinking, “No, no—how many times a week?” then you’re definitely a regular. You probably have the app on your phone, and maybe even bring your own tumbler.

Of course, a convenient Starbucks in a station can be comforting, but… the Starbucks around here are something special.
That’s because the people who brought Starbucks to Japan were entrepreneurs from Zushi, Yuji Suzuki and Rikuzo Suzuki. Around Zushi, the hometown of the first Japanese Starbucks president, the stores are unlike any other.

Among them, the store with the most stunning location, Yokosuka Otsu, opened last year.
There’s the Otsu store with the sea right in front of you, the stylish and open Hayama store, the Kamakura Onari store overlooking the pool and wisteria trellis, and, most special of all, the Zushi store. Here’s a guide to these must-visit Starbucks and the surrounding area.

Starbucks with a stunning view at Yokosuka Otsu

Yokosuka Otsu, facing Tokyo Bay, is a place where various ships pass by in the distance. The panoramic view of the sea from the second floor of Starbucks Otsu is truly remarkable. From the expansive windows, the gradient of the blue sky and the water creates a resort-like atmosphere.

The first-floor seating offers a different vibe—casual and open, perfect for a light brunch or a quick stop by car. There are also three tables beside the building where you can enjoy your time with your dog. In that case, since there’s no shade in the afternoon, it’s best to visit from the morning to early afternoon during hot seasons.

With a drive-thru available, there are many ways to enjoy this Starbucks depending on the season.

Starbucks Yokosuka Otsu is definitely a store “worth making a special trip for.” Be sure to check it out!

Kanagawa Prefecture, Yokosuka City, 
Otsu 1-22-25
Phone: +81-46-845-4261
Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Places to stop by nearby

● Ichigo Yokosuka Port Market
Built on the site of a former giant freezer warehouse, this market houses a food court and various shops. Local produce from the Miura Peninsula is prepared by a variety of restaurants.
It feels a bit like a stylish roadside station, where you can enjoy both shopping and dining.

Hayama Starbucks – a relaxing spot to enjoy nature

This Starbucks is located just off the Nagara exit, which provides highway access to the Zuyo area from the Tokyo direction. Surrounded by greenery, it’s a popular stop for people taking a walk in the area or visiting nearby parks.

From the beautiful glass-walled architecture, you can enjoy views of the lush surroundings. The open, relaxed interior makes it easy to linger—one of my favorite Starbucks locations. This Hayama store is filled with a sense of unhurried hospitality, offering an especially laid-back atmosphere where you can truly feel the essence of “Hayama.”

Across the road is the roadside market HAYAMA STATION, which stocks products from local shops, making shopping very convenient. Freshly harvested local vegetables attract both tourists and residents alike. Inside HAYAMA STATION, there’s also a mini shop from the local supermarket Suzukiya.

Kanagawa Prefecture, Miura District, Hayama Town, Nagara 1809-1
Phone: +81-46-874-5212
Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Places to stop by nearby
● Nangō Kaminoyama Park
Located just up the hill beside Starbucks, this lush, green park is surrounded on all sides by mountains. It’s perfect for walking your dog. You can park in the free lot, stroll along the grassy hills and walking trails, or take the paths that lead up into the mountains and enjoy the ridge-line trails. It’s a great place to fully immerse yourself in nature.

Starbucks Regional Landmark Store – Kamakura Onari

Kamakura, the ancient city, has long been known as a home to many cultural figures. Starbucks Kamakura Onari, located in one of Kamakura’s prime areas, was built on the former residence of the manga artist Ryuichi Yokoyama, famous for the Showa-era comic Fuku-chan. The space preserves cherry trees, a wisteria trellis, and a pool, giving the feeling that you’ve been invited to someone’s private villa.

Kamakura Onari is one of the Starbucks Regional Landmark Stores, designed to reflect the character of each region in Japan. There’s also a Starbucks Reserve® section, where you can enjoy higher-quality coffee.

As this store is extremely popular, you may have to wait in line on weekends. It’s recommended to visit with some extra time to spare.

Kanagawa Prefecture, Kamakura City, Onarimachi 15-11
Phone: +81-467-61-2161
Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Nearby strolling streets
● Onari Street
This shopping street, extending from the west exit of Kamakura Station to Yuigahama Street, is part of “Back Kamakura.” While it has seen a wave of new popular shops opening recently, it’s still much more relaxed than Komachi Street, making it perfect for a leisurely shopping stroll. Recommended sweets shops include Chocolate Bank, Le Gallerie, Coquelicot, and Santi.

This Starbucks, right by Zushi Station in the Suzuki family’s historic neighborhood, is perfect for enjoying alongside Chaya cakes or Hikage Chaya’s wagashi.

Suzukiya, the supermarket in front of Zushi Station, enjoys strong local support and leans slightly upscale. The store is run by a member of the Suzuki family—the sister of the brothers who introduced Starbucks to Japan.

Inside this building, Starbucks Coffee, La Marée de Chaya (Western-style sweets), and Hikage Chaya (Japanese cuisine and wagashi) all share the same space. Since Chaya and Hikage Chaya are also run by the Suzuki family, this entire building is truly at the heart of the Suzuki family’s domain.

That’s why you might see scenes you wouldn’t find elsewhere—like enjoying a Hikage Chaya bento while sipping a Starbucks Frappuccino. Wagashi and coffee together is a pairing worth trying!

Kanagawa Prefecture, Zushi City, Zushi 1-4-1, Kikuchi Building
Phone: +81-46-870-6890
Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

The supermarket, aptly named Suzukiya, is a local favorite.
Besides the Zushi Station branch, Suzukiya has several other locations, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of products. The stores are compact, making for a quick and convenient shopping experience.

While you’ll find the usual major brands featured in commercials, a closer look reveals the store’s unique selections: popular cheeses from Kamakura, warabi-mochi, and delicious hams produced within the prefecture. The way Suzukiya showcases these items reflects both a commitment to quality and an attentive response to customer needs—a true testament to the store’s ethical approach to business.

Locals in Zushi affectionately refer to the store as “Suzukiya-san,” a sign of the warmth and familiarity it has earned in the community.

If you want to pair your Starbucks visit with more local discoveries, be sure to check out:

• ZENI-ARAI BENTEN AND DELICIOUS RESTAURANTS IN THE VICINITY.
• HAYAMA SUNDAY MORNING MARKET REPORT: BREAKFAST IN MAY 2023

These guides are perfect for planning a full day of strolling, sightseeing, and tasting local delights.

The post Places I want to visit! Four unique Starbucks in Kanagawa first appeared on KAMAKURA & ZUSHI Seasonal Updates.

It’s springtime, and the strawberry season has arrived. While it’s important to check out the competition among Kamakura’s strawberry sweets shops, don’t overlook Miura Peninsula. Renowned for its high-quality strawberry production, you can also enjoy exclusive and seasonal strawberries here. I’ll introduce you to eight establishments where you can savor the taste of strawberries at their seasonal peak.

The first stop is Marlow, a renowned shop known for its rich pudding served in beakers. During this season, you can indulge in desserts featuring an abundance of locally sourced strawberries from the Miura Peninsula, making for an impressive treat.

These desserts feature fully ripe strawberries, boasting a flavor and sweetness unique to this time of year. The pudding, made with fully ripe strawberries, is a delicacy that can only be savored by those who have experienced strawberry picking. What’s more, you can select your preferred pudding flavor, adding to the enjoyment.

In addition to the items shown in the photo, there are also other visually stunning plates, such as those featuring two puddings, ice cream, and strawberries, offering a delightful menu to enjoy during this season.

Address:
50-2 Horinai, Hayama-cho, Miura-gun,
Kanagawa 240-0112, Japan
1F Hayama Marina
Phone:
046-875-0412
Business Hours:
Lunch Time: 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM (Last Order)
*Possibility of early closure depending on congestion.
Cafe: 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM (Last Order at 6:00 PM)
Takeout: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Regular Holiday:
Tuesdays (except during peak seasons and holidays) *Subject to change depending on the facility.
*Open as usual on March 14th (Tuesday) and March 21st (Tuesday).
*Open throughout August.
Parking:
Hayama Marina Parking: 80 spaces, with discounts available
(1 hour free with purchases over ¥1000, 1.5 hours free with purchases over ¥2000, similar to Marina Plaza).
Smoking Policy:
Smoking is prohibited throughout the indoor and terrace areas.
Wi-Fi:
FREE Wi-Fi available.
Pets:
Terrace seats are pet-friendly for dogs.

In Zushi, the “Koyomi” confectionery shop, which ranks in the top three of the “Absolutely Delicious Shops” in Zushi, is located in the Zushi Ginza Shopping Street. Their fresh sweets, daifuku, dorayaki, coffee menu’s bean paste, and even their summer shaved ice are all delicious. Of course, their strawberry daifuku is particularly tasty.

This shop always has customers lining up, but during the strawberry daifuku season, the line is especially long. As I bought four strawberry daifuku, I heard a sigh from someone standing behind me. If we happen to sell out after you’ve bought a lot, we apologize.

Address:
1-7-4 Zushi, Zushi-shi, Kanagawa 249-0007, Japan
1F Shimizuya Building
Phone:
046-876-8226
Reservations:
Available
Business Hours:
10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Open on Sundays
Regular Holidays:
Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Payment Methods:
Cards not accepted
Electronic money not accepted

Located right near Kamakura’s Onari-dori Street, Chocolate Bank is a sister brand shop and café of “Maison Cacao,” offering an excellent location and a hidden gem ambiance as a café.

The star of the season at Chocolate Bank is the Amou Mont Blanc Plate. Inside the Amou strawberries lies a refreshing floral-scented cream made with fruit vinegar from cocoa fruit. On top of that, there’s a cream made with freshly squeezed chestnut paste and Amou strawberries. Despite its fluffy and melting texture, it’s rich in flavor. It perfectly complements the acidity of the cream inside.

Address:
11-8 Misencho, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa 248-0012, Japan
(Former site of the East Japan Bank Kamakura Branch)
Phone:
0467-50-0172
Business Hours:
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Morning Hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Regular Holiday:
Mondays (If Monday is a public holiday, the following day)

Right at the entrance of Komachi-dori, a shop called “Soratsuki” sells strawberry candy. If you stop here, keep in mind that your shrine visit will be delayed by about an hour. So, make sure to plan your time accordingly and visit Kamakura with ample time!

Strawberry candy. The catchy exterior of this shop always draws a crowd. One person buying means everyone on the school trip ends up getting some strawberry candy. That’s because the ingredients are high-quality and the taste is excellent.

The reason? It’s because the shop is an outpost of a Tokyo-based strawberry sweets specialty store located in Tsukiji Market.

Get ready for the mood-boosting “THE Strawberry Candy”. Even adults should enjoy it!

Address:
1-5-9 Komachi, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa 248-0006, Japan
(1-minute walk from Kamakura Station, along Komachi-dori)
Business Hours:
Weekdays: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

In the Marushichi Shopping Street of Kamakura, you’ll find “Guruguru Bagel,” a bagel specialty shop. During this season, they offer several varieties of strawberry sandwiches alongside their popular fruit bagel sandwiches.

These bagels, with their carefully crafted flavors, are filled with substantial cream and strawberries, resulting in a sandwich that’s quite different from your typical fruit sandwich. It’s a hearty meal bread that’s sure to satisfy bagel enthusiasts.

Address:
1-3-4 Komachi, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa 248-0006, Japan
(Located inside the Marushichi Shopping Street)
Phone:
0467-73-8340
Regular Holidays:
Wednesdays, 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month
Business Hours:
12:00 PM - 6:00 PM (Closed when sold out)
︎ To go only

6. Strawberry picking of fully ripe strawberries at Tsukuihama Tourist Farm.“

Have you ever been strawberry picking? It’s where you enter a greenhouse where strawberries are grown and pick your own ripe strawberries to eat as much as you want. They’re rich in sweetness and have a refreshing acidity. You can eat as many strawberries as you like.

At Tsukuihama Tourist Farm for strawberry picking, it gives the impression that only the finest strawberries are left for us, the strawberry pickers. If you’ve been strawberry picking before, you’ll understand that the quantity and condition of the strawberries vary greatly depending on when you visit. There’s nothing better than plucking a large, sweet strawberry at its peak and popping it into your mouth. It’s guaranteed to be an exciting experience.

• Operating Period: January 1st to May 5th, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• Location: Tsukuihama Tourist Farm Information Center Address: 5-15-20 Tsukui, Yokosuka City (20 minutes’ walk from Tsukuihama Station on the Keikyu Line)
• Prices:
  • January 1st to January 7th: 2,200 yen
  • January 8th to end of February: 2,000 yen
  • March 1st to April 5th: 1,800 yen
  • April 6th to May 5th: 1,600 yen
• Tsukuihama Tourist Farm Office (Weekdays, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM) Tel: 046-849-4506

7. Take Home Strawberries from Kayama Farm

Finally, let me introduce Koyama Farm. Their strawberries are currently a popular brand on the Miura Peninsula. When they’re stocked at the local supermarket “Suzukiya” in Zushi, they quickly sell out. It’s a popular farm for strawberry picking, but reservations are hard to come by. On this day, I went to their direct sales outlet instead. Even for purchasing strawberries to take home, it’s become more reliable to make a reservation in advance.

If you’re driving and don’t have time for strawberry picking, but still want to buy Miura strawberries, it’s conveniently located. Just across the road is the large-scale direct sales outlet “Sukanagotto.” You’ll be amazed by the freshness and affordability, so make sure to clear out your fridge before heading there and buying a lot.

For those who are eager to visit the Miura Peninsula, I recommend the “Dog-friendly Miura Peninsula Drive: Relaxing Tour with Delicious Eateries” feature. There are many spacious and mellow establishments, and accommodations are also plentiful. I introduce dog-friendly establishments in my blog, so even those with furry friends can enjoy their time. For those who can’t venture all the way to Miura Peninsula, I suggest the “Sunday Morning Market in Hayama.” It’s a comfortable way to enjoy the morning in Hayama, so be sure to give it a try. Please check out the above recommendations as well.

The post Miura strawberries & Kamakura-Zushi strawberry sweets first appeared on KAMAKURA & ZUSHI Seasonal Updates.

As the pleasant autumn breeze wafts through, the towns of Kamakura and Zushi take on a quieter, more local ambiance. This season is ideal for visiting traditional Japanese confectionery shops. Enjoy autumn-themed Japanese sweets featuring sweet chestnuts and seasonal treats that align with Japan’s calendar and traditions. Let’s savor exceptionally delicious Japanese confections and relish a delightful autumn experience.

Kamakura Maki Noh” is a traditional Noh performance held at Kamakura Shrine at the beginning of October. Toshimaya’s “Maki no Mai” is an elegant confection inspired by this Kamakura Maki Noh. It consists of sugar-pickled burdock with a robust flavor and senbei (rice crackers) colored to resemble flames. It’s a luxurious way to savor the atmosphere and season of Kamakura Maki Noh. With a shelf life of one month, it makes an excellent souvenir. Don’t forget to visit Toshimaya, which offers a variety of famous confections, including those perfect for “momijigari” (autumn leaf viewing).

Kamakura, Kanagawa, Japan
Phone: 0467-25-0810

Closed on Wednesdays (except holidays when it's open)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

“Koyomi” is a popular Japanese confectionery store where lines form from the time that they open. By late morning, their flagship products are often completely sold out. If you’re determined to get items that you desire, it’s recommended to make a reservation.

You can also enjoy the pleasant aroma of freshly baked dorayaki skins inside the shop. They offer sweet treats such as shaved ice in the summer and sweet bean paste desserts for dining in, providing a delightful experience.

Address: 1-7-4, Kameoka, Zushi, Kanagawa, Japan, 1st Floor of Shimizuya Building
Phone Number: 046-876-8226
Business Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Regular Holidays: Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Business hours and regular holidays may be subject to change.
Credit cards are not accepted.
Electronic payments are not accepted.

This is a specialty shop for ohagi, which is distinctive for using a combination of Kogane Mochi rice from Niigata, known as the most delicious glutinous rice, and mixed grain rice. The shop opened in the summer of 2023.

The rice they use is exceptionally delicious. They also offer packs of just the combination of glutinous rice, which I highly recommend.

The size and price are just right, making it perfect for souvenirs or for enjoying at home.

Address: 3-1-26 Zushi, Zushi City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Phone Number: 070-9070-5693
Regular Holiday: Mondays
Business Hours: 11:00 AM until sold out

The ‘Rikuno Hōju’ is a confection consisting of a single grape enveloped in sweet bean paste. Depending on the season, it is made using grapes like Alexandria or Shine Muscat. True to its name, this delicacy resembles a jewel.

When you take a bite, it’s filled with the rich aroma of grape juice, making it a luxurious treat. While it’s often chosen as a gift, people occasionally buy a few pieces just to indulge their own cravings.

Address: 2-9-1 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Phone Number: 0467-23-2788
Business Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Have you ever seen Kamakura’s Temari confectionery? This is a masterpiece that combines both deliciousness and beauty, representing a traditional Japanese confectionery with vibrant colors. It can be enjoyed according to the season and occasion, making it a perfect choice for those who want to savor the elegance and aesthetic sense of Japan.

The seasonal flavors and color combinations delight the senses like a work of art.

The autumn Japanese confectioneries in Kamakura are a captivating blend of season and culture. They are not only visually pleasing but also offer deep and rich flavors. With ingredients like chestnuts and Shine Muscat grapes available in the autumn, Kamakura in the fall allows you to enjoy these seasonal materials and take them home.Address: 28-35 Sakanoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa, Japan
Phone: 0467-33-4525
Reservations available
Opening Hours: Around 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays

The post Kamakura & Zushi in Autumn, with Japanese Sweets. first appeared on KAMAKURA & ZUSHI Seasonal Updates.

To beat the summer heat, refreshing and cold matcha sweets are just what you need. This time, we have carefully selected highly-rated matcha cold desserts from popular stores scattered around Kamakura, as well as famous shaved ice shops in the Hayama area, frequented by connoisseurs.

These various matcha sweets are perfect for taking a moment to relax even in the midst of the heat. For popular stores with long lines, we aim to visit during relatively less crowded times, even if they are far from the station.

On a hot summer day, enjoy the refreshing aroma and bitterness of matcha cold desserts to refresh yourself.

Hinode-en’s shaved ice features fluffy, snow-like ice that gently melts in your mouth, releasing the refreshing, fragrant flavor of high-quality matcha. Despite being a gourmet shaved ice, it is reasonably priced. Is this even possible?

First, you are captivated by its appearance. It comes with condensed milk and fragrant tea on the side, just as you would expect from a tea shop.

Then, when you take a bite, the deep aroma of matcha fills your mouth. The ice itself is infused with matcha flavor, and the change in taste when you reach the sweet red bean paste is just as delightful as expected. This exquisite dessert is available only during the summer season.

Address
1413-212 Nagae, Hayama-machi, Miura-gun, Kanagawa 240-0113

Phone
046-875-5134

Business Hours
10:00~18:00 (Closed on Wednesdays)

Parking
2 spots nearby, 2 spots a bit further away.
*Shaved ice is available only during the summer season.

Let me introduce “Hinode-en Cafe” inside Hayama Station. In addition to cafe menu items like matcha lattes, they also serve matcha and hojicha soft serve ice cream. The matcha soft serve offers a rich aroma and creamy texture, while the hojicha soft serve combines a toasty flavor with sweetness, creating a delicious harmony.

Hayama Station is located near the entrance to the Zouya Shin-do, making it a convenient stop for locals and travelers heading towards Tokyo and other areas. It’s not just a cafe frequented by locals, but also houses a local supermarket “Suzukiya,” a vegetable market, and the popular local butcher shop “Asahiya Gyutan-ten,” making it convenient for shopping.

Take a moment to relax and enjoy a soft serve ice cream. It’s a spot where you can casually savor the delightful taste of Japanese tea soft serves.

Just hearing the name Kirihara in Hayama conjures up a refreshing landscape. This shop, which utilizes natural ice born from the blessed natural environment of sunlight, offers exquisite shaved ice and opens around Golden Week every year, drawing many shaved ice enthusiasts.

The natural ice, condensed with the blessings of sunlight, melts instantly on the tongue and feels cooler than regular shaved ice, avoiding that chilling sensation, making it easier to melt. Enjoy the delicate sweetness wrapped in a feathery-like ice.

The flavors and toppings that change with the seasons add a playful touch and evoke the feeling of summer with every bite. It’s shaved ice that allows you to fully enjoy the luxury and charm of premium ice.

Address:
〒240-0111 Kanagawa, Miura District, Hayama, Isshiki 653

Phone:
090-6305-8980

Business Hours:
11:00 - 16:00 (Last Order)

Parking:
Available

Adjacent to the historic Hayama bakery "bledore".

Kamakura, Onari-machi: Cloud Mica (Kirara), a teahouse known for its line-up, offers a specialty dessert called “Shiratama Anmitsu.” It’s a popular sweet in Kamakura.

This time, we’ll try their most popular item on the menu, the “Uji Shiratama Cream Anmitsu.” The freshly made large shiratama rice cakes are so big that swallowing them in one bite could be risky. They’re warm, chewy, and tastier than any shiratama I’ve ever had!

It’s served with matcha syrup and sweet red bean paste. They also include kombu tea and pickles, with hojicha served to add variety to the flavors. Cloud Mica is incredibly popular among international tourists, and the staff provides detailed explanations of the menu in English, even offering assistance using smartphones.

Experience the elegance of Cloud Mica’s refined shiratama anmitsu amidst the traditional atmosphere of Kamakura’s Onari-machi. Be sure to try it, even if you have to wait in line.

Address:
〒248-0012 Kanagawa, Kamakura, Onari-machi 16-7

Phone:
046-724-9741

Business Hours:
11:00 - 18:00

Momiji Chaya is conveniently located on Onari Street, just a short walk from Kamakura Station. They also have a store on Komachi Street. You can enjoy their rich Matcha Tiramisu, generously filled with Kyoto Morihan’s intense matcha flavor. As soon as it touches your tongue, you’ll feel its smooth texture and luxurious matcha taste that melts in your mouth. The shape it takes in the “masu” (wooden box) adds a unique touch typical of Japanese sweets.

Their Hojicha Tiramisu is also popular, making it a cozy spot for dates, family outings, or simply relaxing alone.

Address:
1F, Maison Kamakura, 10-2 Onari-machi, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa 248-0012

Phone:
0467-60-4316

Business Hours:
Open from 10:00 / Close at 20:00 (Last Order: 19:00)
*Hours may vary depending on the season.
Irregular holidays

The post Kamakura to Hayama: Refreshing Matcha Desserts first appeared on KAMAKURA & ZUSHI Seasonal Updates.