Toraya, founded in Kyoto and serving as a purveyor to the Imperial Court, opened a shop in Tokyo in a move accompanying the emperor in 1869 when the national capital was transferred there. In this Tokyo district of Akasaka, Toraya began business in 1879 and has since overcome the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake and World War II to this date.

Refurbished shop opens in October 2018
The exterior of the refurbished shop is walled with glass, taking in natural light to make it a bright shop. For its interior, hinoki (Japanese cypress) is used abundantly, transforming the shop into a cozy place full of the warmth of wood. A must-see is the black-lacquered wall plastered by craftsmen with the ancient Japanese technique of shikkui (plaster), featuring Toraya’s big logo on the wall.
On the third floor, you can have a look at the making scene of confection through the glass wall. You can also enjoy the Akasaka shop’s limited confections and a meal featuring ingredients used for wagashi such as azuki beans and yam. In the basement gallery, exhibitions and events are held in connection with Japanese culture and wagashi.

Access:
7 minutes’ walk from Exit A, Akasaka-mitsuke Station, Marunouchi Line/Ginza Line, Tokyo Metro