How about tasting a unique spice? We are standing before Shichimiya Honpo. It is a Kyoto institution. The shop specializes in Shichimi Togarashi. This is a Japanese seven-spice blend. Shichimiya Honpo is more than just a shop. It is a journey through flavor.
Shichimiya Honpo is regarded as one of Japan’s “Top Three Shichimi”. It dates back to the Edo period. The shop was established in 1655. It began as a tea house. It was located at the intersection of Kiyomizu-zaka and Sannei-zaka. These paths lead to Kiyomizu Temple.
Back then, the tea house offered visitors a complimentary drink. It was called “Karashi-yu”. This was hot water with chili pepper powder. This inspired them to blend chili pepper with other ingredients. They used Japanese pepper, sesame seeds, and hemp seeds. This marked the start of their Shichimi Togarashi specialty store.
There is no strict recipe for Shichimi Togarashi. Each shop has its own unique blend. Shichimiya Honpo uses aromatic ingredients. These include Japanese pepper and hemp seeds. White sesame and black sesame are also used. Green seaweed and perilla add to the aroma.
Just a sprinkle of Shichimiya Honpo’s Shichimi enhances any dish. The official website has many recipes. It is a great resource for cooking fans. Besides Shichimi, they sell other spices. Japanese pepper and Ichimi are available. Yuzu Ichimi is also sold here. These unique Japanese spices make perfect souvenirs.
The aroma is emphasized here. It is not overly spicy. Kyoto’s Shichimi has a reddish-brown color. This comes from its ingredients. The shop recommends using the spices within three months. This ensures the best aroma.
You can sample some spices here. They offer traditional Japanese broth. Furikake seasoning is also available. Various condiments can be tasted. Custom blends are not offered. Shichimiya Honpo focuses on its original blend.
The shop is located near Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The address is 2-221, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City. You can take a bus from JR Kyoto Station. Get off at Gojo-zaka. It is a seven-minute walk from there. You can also take a bus from Hankyu Kyoto Kawaramachi Station. Get off at Kiyomizu-michi. Then, walk for seven minutes.
Shichimiya Honpo is open every day. The hours are 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Note that these hours may change with the seasons. Credit cards are accepted here.
Shichimiya Honpo has been a part of Kyoto’s culinary landscape for centuries. It offers a taste of tradition and a burst of flavor. As you explore Kyoto, remember the aromatic spices of Shichimiya Honpo. They capture the essence of Kyoto’s cuisine.