A Manju Inspired by the Humor of Yasugi Bushi
Yasugi Bushi is a traditional folk song from Yasugi City and is recognized as one of Japan’s three major folk songs. Its best-known dance is the Dojo Sukui dance, in which performers wear a Hyottoko mask and dance with a hand towel wrapped around their heads.
Dojo Sukui Manju brings the humorous appearance of this traditional performing art directly into the world of sweets. The blue polka-dot design resembling a head-wrapped towel and the distinctive Hyottoko face create a playful souvenir that is sure to bring a smile to visitors.
A Smooth and Elegant Taste Loved Since 1967
First introduced in 1967, Dojo Sukui Manju has become a long-loved traditional Japanese sweet. Each soft pastry is filled with smooth, moist white bean paste, offering a gentle and refined sweetness.
It pairs naturally with Japanese green tea, while its mild flavor also goes well with coffee and black tea. Although it is a traditional Japanese confection, its approachable taste makes it easy to enjoy with a variety of drinks and by people of all ages.
A Playful Package that Brings a Smile
The appeal of Dojo Sukui Manju extends beyond its flavor. Its design, featuring an adorable Hyottoko wearing a head-wrapped cloth, captures the playful spirit of the San’in region.
The fun begins even before opening the box, making it a memorable gift for family and friends as well as a convenient treat to share with colleagues. The way it introduces a traditional local performing art through an approachable sweet is another part of its charm.
From Classic White Bean Paste to a Variety of Flavors
The classic version is filled with white bean paste, but a variety of other flavors inspired by specialties from Shimane and Tottori are also available.
Depending on the selection, flavors include matcha bean paste, chocolate bean paste, strawberry bean paste, Japanese twentieth-century pear bean paste, and smooth chestnut bean paste. Comparing these different flavors alongside the classic white bean version can be a fun way to enjoy this popular regional confection.
A Memorable Souvenir from a Journey through the San’in Region
“Dojo Sukui Manju” transforms the culture of Yasugi Bushi and the Dojo Sukui dance into a friendly and memorable Japanese sweet. Its humorous Hyottoko expression, head-wrapped towel design, and smooth white bean paste have made it a beloved confection for generations.
When traveling through Yasugi and the wider San’in region, try Dojo Sukui Manju as a souvenir or enjoy it with a cup of tea. It is a delightful way to experience the region’s traditional culture, local humor, and confectionery craftsmanship in a single treat.