A Special Autumn Flavor That Colors Nakatsugawa
“Kuri-kinton” is famous throughout Nakatsugawa. Moreover, for those of us living in Nakatsugawa City, it’s a very familiar presence in our daily lives. Every September, beautiful chestnut-colored “kuri-kinton” begins to appear in local confectionery shops throughout the town.
Furthermore, this seasonal tradition is eagerly awaited not only by local residents but also by visitors from across Japan and overseas. Therefore, in this blog, we would like to introduce you to this special delicacy of Nakatsugawa that can only be enjoyed during the limited period from September through winter.
What Exactly is Kuri-kinton?
Kuri-kinton is a traditional Japanese sweet made by combining steamed chestnuts with just a small amount of sugar, then shaping the mixture into chestnut-like forms using cloth wrapping. Although simple in ingredients, it offers remarkably rich flavors and aromas. Additionally, there are actually two different foods in Japan that share the same name “kuri-kinton.”
One is a sweet side dish made primarily from sweet potatoes that appears in New Year’s osechi cuisine. However, Nakatsugawa’s kuri-kinton is completely different in ingredients, preparation method, and appearance – it’s an entirely separate confection. Furthermore, Nakatsugawa’s kuri-kinton allows you to fully enjoy the natural sweetness and fragrance of pure chestnuts.
Its origins can be traced back to the Edo period when it served as a tea confection in post towns along the Nakasendo highway. Moreover, it began being commercially produced in earnest during the Meiji era. Therefore, this is a traditional regional confection with over 150 years of history.
Simple Methods Showcasing Master Craftsmanship
Kuri-kinton is an ultimately simple confection. However, this very simplicity makes it a profound sweet that demands the skilled techniques and experience of master craftsmen. The use of only chestnuts and sugar demonstrates the pure essence of this confection.
The process begins with hand-peeling chestnuts, with each piece carefully processed by hand. Furthermore, cooking in small batches maximizes the natural sweetness and aroma of the chestnuts. Therefore, this creates delicate and profound flavors that machines could never replicate. Moreover, this handcrafted warmth is precisely why kuri-kinton continues to be beloved by so many people.
The Joy of Kuri-kinton Shop-Hopping in Nakatsugawa
Nakatsugawa City is home to over a dozen kuri-kinton specialty shops, each offering their own distinctive flavors and characteristics. Additionally, particularly famous establishments include “Kawakamiya,” a prestigious shop with over 150 years of history, and “Suya,” which dates back to the Genroku period. Furthermore, these renowned shops continue to be cherished by countless tourists.
Every year, an official Nakatsugawa kuri-kinton map is published and available at tourist information centers and individual shops. Moreover, shop-hopping to compare different varieties is one of the special pleasures unique to kuri-kinton. Additionally, you can experience surprising variations in taste due to subtle differences in chestnut sources and preparation methods. Therefore, the joy of discovering your personal favorite is truly exceptional.
The Special Value of Short Shelf Life
Kuri-kinton has a relatively short shelf life of 4-7 days due to its completely natural preparation method using no preservatives whatsoever. However, this very limitation creates special value that can only be experienced locally. Furthermore, enjoying the fresh, just-made deliciousness is one of kuri-kinton’s greatest attractions.Please use our inn as your base to explore the nearby traditional Japanese confectionery shops. Moreover, if you have the opportunity to enjoy this special confection that’s only available during chestnut season, please share your impressions with us! We eagerly await your recommendations and stories of delight from the heart.