Akiu Ohagi～秋保おはぎ～ (Bean Cakes) from “Supermarket Saichi”

Ohagi (bean cakes) are made from steamed glutinous rice that is pounded to the extent that rice grains are still visible, and formed into a round shape. This is coated with azuki(red bean paste). Ohagi is a Japanese sweet that is traditionally been eaten at various events and memorial services.

Akiu ohagi sold at Saichi supermarket are extremely popular, with 5,000 ohagi sold on weekdays and 20,000 on the weekends during peak season. Lightly-sweetened bean paste is entwined with fluffy, sticky, glutinous rice, creating an exquisite taste.

In addition to the classic three types of ohagi (red bean paste, kinako (roasted soybean powder), and sesame), ohagi coated with natto is also sold for a limited time from October to early May. Ohagi usually sells out by evening, so visitors are recommended to go buy them early.