Kawabata Doki, one of the top dessert places in Kyoto, is conveniently located just a two-minute stroll from Kitayama Subway Station. This confectionery shop is deeply rooted in the city's rich history, with over five centuries of experience in mastering the art of crafting 'chimaki' – delicate dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves – and an array of confections tailored for traditional tea ceremonies. Despite its long-standing heritage, Kawabata Doki resides in a modern, unassuming building, defying the typical ambiance of long-established Japanese sweet shops.
Kawabata Doki gained fame through its beloved 'Suisen-chimaki,' cherished for its timeless blend of bamboo leaves and flawlessly smooth dumplings created from kudzu flour. Remarkably, their production methods have remained nearly unchanged for over five centuries, with the only notable shift being the transition from wood stoves to gas for cooking. The chimaki comes in two delightful variations – a simple kudzu mochi and a flavorful yokan, both boasting a light, velvety texture that practically vanishes upon the first bite.
In addition to their famous chimaki, the shop provides an array of long-lasting sweets. Their charming 'Oitopoi' confections, translating to 'cute' in the Imperial Palace language, include rakugan – a popular Kyoto souvenir. These pastel-hued delights, with their bite-sized, hemispherical shapes, are not only adorable but also delectable. Due to their limited production, advance reservations are advised to secure your selection.
