yutak829
Spring rain drips down, the cherry blossoms in full bloom are starting to fall, and the crowds in Ginza are calm. Among the many famous confectionery shops in Ginza, this time, let's focus on the modern-style sakura mochi from the nationally renowned Ginza Akebono. Ginza Akebono opened shortly after the end of the war, attracting people as a confectionery shop run by a couple near the Ginza 4-chome intersection. In the difficult post-war era of 1948, when sugar became available, they offered sweet treats. The name Akebono carries the wish for a new dawn in Japan, symbolizing the hope for a brighter future. Under the second generation, the shop expanded and became a company in 1969, with its own factory in Machida. They also expanded their product line and became a renowned brand, with over 70 stores nationwide. Their signature product, the Taste of Minige, gained popularity as a souvenir, and they increased their sales outlets across the country. The direct management includes the Ginza main store and the Nihonbashi branch, with stores mainly in department stores such as Matsuya, Mitsukoshi, Takashimaya, Daimaru, Isetan, Odakyu, Tobu, Seibu, as well as stations and airports. Their diverse store expansion has made Akebono a staple souvenir. In 2004, the daughter took over the family business from her father, the previous owner, marking a significant shift in the times. Their Daifuku and seasonal wagashi, such as Mizuyokan, are also popular, with the Taste of Minige being a representative work. Their 12 varieties of rice crackers are distinctive, and they also offer seasonal wagashi, with the sakura mochi being particularly eye-catching. The origin of sakura mochi dates back to the Edo period in 1717, when a gatekeeper at Chomeiji Temple on the Sumida River came up with the idea to use the fallen cherry leaves. Ginza Akebono's sakura mochi is unique, evolving from traditional styles with its square shape. It consists of a traditional shiratama flour dough, Hokkaido red bean paste, Izu sakura leaves, and Odawara salt-pickled cherry blossoms. It is a renowned product that conveys the enjoyment of wagashi. The distinctive logo of Akebono, shining at the Ginza main store, was drawn by the current president's sister, showcasing her talent despite having a speech impediment. Among the many famous confectionery and brand names that have continued since the post-war period, Ginza Akebono has embraced the changing waves of the times and steadily grown. Its reliable transformation in the new era of Ginza, which is constantly changing, is promising.