Shiga Itokiri Mochi

At a glance

NameShiga Itokiri Mochi (Itokiri Mochi)
PrefectureShiga
RegionKansai
TypeStriped bean-filled mochi cut with a string

What is it?

Itokiri mochi is a slender white rice cake marked with red and blue stripes, wrapped around smooth bean paste and cut into small pieces with thread rather than a knife.

History and local context

The sweet is associated with Taga Taisha and its shrine-town shops; the string-cutting custom is commonly linked to auspicious stories surrounding shrine pilgrimage.

How to enjoy it

Eat it fresh at room temperature with unsweetened tea and compare makers around the shrine, observing the short shelf life of soft mochi.

Availability varies by maker, season, and destination.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Shiga Itokiri Mochi from?

It is associated with Shiga, in the Kansai region of Japan.

What kind of food is Shiga Itokiri Mochi?

This guide classifies it as striped bean-filled mochi cut with a string. See the overview for its defining ingredients and texture.

Can I order Shiga Itokiri Mochi online?

Use the Rakuten Japan search link on this page. Confirm the maker, ingredients, storage requirements, and international shipping before ordering.

Order from Japan

Search Rakuten Japan using the original Japanese food name. Search results and product pages may be available only in Japanese.

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