What comes to mind when you think of "Hiroshima souvenirs"?
Okonomiyaki, oysters, lemons... there are many options, but perhaps "Momiji Manju" is still an essential one.
This time, we will introduce the birth story of Momiji Manju, an episode you'll want to share with someone once you know it.

The commitment of the proprietress of a long-established ryokan
The "spirit of hospitality" behind its birth

Momiji Manju was born in the Meiji era, over 100 years ago.
It began when Hirobumi Ito, Japan's first Prime Minister, who was staying at Iwaso, a long-established ryokan at the entrance of Momijidani (Maple Valley) in Miyajima, saw the hands of a teahouse girl and jokingly said, "Your hands are as cute as maple leaves; they'd be delicious if baked and eaten."
The proprietress, who overheard the joke, is said to have consulted with Tsunesuke Takatsu, the first owner of Takatsudo and a wagashi craftsman, saying, "I want to offer a tea cake suitable for the name of this Momijidani to our important guests." This is considered to be its origin.

Incorporating the most advanced Western confectionery techniques of the time
The prototype of Momiji Manju, "Momiji-shaped Baked Manju"

Takatsu, who received the consultation, underwent repeated trial and error and finally completed the "Momiji-shaped Baked Manju," which realistically reproduced beautiful maple leaves and became the prototype of today's Momiji Manju.
Although named "manju," its skin is actually a fluffy castella-style dough. The most advanced Western confectionery techniques of the time were incorporated, stemming from the craftsman's kindness to ensure it wouldn't harden while being taken home as a souvenir.
This was the beginning of the Momiji Manju known by everyone today.

From Meiji, Taisho, Showa, Heisei... to Reiwa
Momiji Manju undergoes great evolution through the ages

Nowadays, in addition to the classic red bean paste, a variety of flavors such as chocolate, custard, and cheese have also appeared. Furthermore, its variations are expanding even further, including deep-fried versions, those enjoyed with a dip, and new-sense Momiji Manju made with croissant dough.
Momiji Manju has grown beyond the realm of "souvenir wagashi" to become a Miyajima specialty that continues to evolve by incorporating the needs of the times.
Momiji Manju, which inherits the "spirit of hospitality" born over 100 years ago. Please try it, while reflecting on its history and story.

【DATA】
Takatsudo
Address / 2-6-25 Miyajimaguchi Nishi, Hatsukaichi City
Business Hours / 8:00 - 18:00
Closed / Open year-round

Iwaso
Address / 345-1 Minamimachi, Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City