Taiko no Chikara Mochi

About Taiko no Chikara Mochi

“Taiko no Chikara Mochi” is a masterpiece steeped in the history and culture of Miyajima. The origin of the name goes back to the construction of Senjokaku when the Sengoku warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi ordered construction in Tensho 15 (1587). Senjokaku is a grand structure that Hideyoshi decided to build in order to perform a memorial service for transcribing the Senbu Kyō, and many people's labor was spent on its construction. What was offered as a snack for the craftsmen involved in the work was this “power mochi,” made by sprinkling soybean flour on mochi and sprinkled with sugar.

At that time, sugar was extremely valuable, and this sweet mochi was served as a symbol of Hideyoshi's love for the people and his own dignity. Because of its deliciousness and hunger, it came to be called “Taiko no Chikimochi,” and was loved by craftsmen.

Furthermore, this mochi has been handed down as a specialty of Miyajima for over 400 years, and now it is a sweet loved by tourists and locals. The chewy texture, gentle aroma of soybean flour, and the sweetness of plenty of white sugar go great with matcha and green tea. The simple yet profound flavor invites you to a special moment where you can feel the atmosphere of the Azuchi-Momoyama period.

When you visit Miyajima, be sure to try this historic Taiko Chikimochi. Enjoying traditional sweets against the backdrop of the quiet space of Senjokaku is truly a blissful time.

Reviews