From Kamakura and Yokohama to Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture—just outside Tokyo—is home to many historic shops and unique local treats.
Thanks to former idols turning into entrepreneurs and the snacks’ appearances in popular Japanese dramas, Kanagawa’s souvenir market is seeing a fresh wave of popularity.
One great example is the Salt Vanilla Financier from Yokohama Vanilla, which went viral due to the fame of CEO Takahashi, a former idol. The product even made it into the Guinness World Records, showing just how powerful celebrity influence can be in the business world.
Media coverage has also helped spotlight classic snacks. Iconic treats like Hato Sabure and Kurumicco often show up in dramas and variety shows, making them must-have souvenirs when visiting Kanagawa.
Recommended Snack Souvenirs from Kanagawa
Here are five snack souvenirs from Kanagawa that we highly recommend. They’re perfect as gifts or for enjoying yourself. Each bite captures the distinct charm and rich flavors of Kanagawa!
1. Tosimaya – Hato Sabure Cookies
Shaped like doves, Hato Sabure Cookies have been a Kamakura favorite since the Meiji era. Created by Tosimaya’s founder after much trial and error, these cookies feature a rich buttery aroma and crisp French-style texture.
Today, Hato Sabure remains one of Kamakura’s most iconic souvenirs. In summer 2024, it gained even more attention as a favorite snack of a character in the Japanese drama Umi no Hajimari (海のはじまり).
These cookies pair well with Japanese tea, coffee, black tea, milk, or barley tea. They’re a hit with people of all ages, whether shared with family or brought back as an office gift.
- Prices (tax included):
- 10 pcs: ¥1,350
- 16 pcs: ¥2,430
- 25 pcs: ¥3,650
2. Kamakura Beniya – Kurumicco
Kurumicco (クルミッ子) is a beloved classic from Kamakura Beniya. It’s made with a rich, buttery crust filled with homemade caramel and chopped walnuts. The caramel delivers a deep sweetness without being overly rich, while the perfect balance of walnuts and caramel creates a satisfying bite.
This indulgent snack becomes even more refreshing when chilled—an excellent summer treat.
The retro packaging features an adorable squirrel mascot named Risu-kun (リスくん), inspired by the many squirrels in Kamakura and their love for walnuts. The design adds extra charm to an already delightful snack.
- Prices (tax included):
- 5 pcs: ¥810
- 8 pcs: ¥1,296
- 16 pcs: ¥2,592
3. YOKOHAMA MEMORIES – Yokohama Potato
The most popular product from YOKOHAMA MEMORIES, Yokohama Potato (横濱ポテト), is made from carefully selected Satsuma sweet potatoes. The potatoes are smoothly mashed and slowly baked at a low temperature.
The result is a rich, sweet cake with a moist and tender texture. Though small in size, each piece is dense and satisfying, delivering full flavor in every bite.
You can enjoy it as is to savor the original taste, chill it for a refreshing twist, or warm it slightly and pair it with ice cream for a layered and delightful dessert experience.
Its retro packaging features Yokohama’s iconic red brick buildings, complete with images of horse-drawn carriages and gas lamps—capturing the city’s nostalgic charm. It makes a perfect souvenir from this historic port city.
- Price (tax included):
- 6 pcs: 1,080 yen
- 12 pcs: 2,160 yen
Read:
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4. Yokohama Vanilla – Salt Financier Vanilla
Salt Financier Vanilla (塩バニラフィナンシェ) is the first release from the new brand Yokohama Vanilla (横浜バニラ), developed directly by CEO Takahashi, who grew up in Yokohama.
Drawing inspiration from his personal image of the city, he created this heartfelt sweet treat as a new kind of Yokohama souvenir.
Interestingly, Takahashi is a former idol group member, which has also added buzz to the product.
On February 22, 2025, the product debuted at Takashimaya Yokohama. Within just 12 hours, it broke a Guinness World Record for the highest number of financiers sold in a single day worldwide!
This incredible achievement made headlines immediately. However, since the brand is still in development, it’s currently only available through pop-up stores in shopping centers.
If you’re curious to try this special cake, be sure to check the official website for pop-up shop updates so you don’t miss out!
- Price (tax included): 6 pcs: 2,160 yen
- Official Website
5. Kamakura Goro Honten – Kamakura Hangetsu
The signature crunch of Kamakura Hangetsu (鎌倉半月), reminiscent of Japanese senbei rice crackers, is the key to its irresistible charm.
Kamakura Goro remains committed to the importance of texture and mouthfeel. With great care, they’ve crafted this beloved treat, which has been passed down for over 20 years.
It’s also one of the best-selling souvenirs at Kamakura Goro’s main store, loved by people of all ages.
The cake features a charming design of the moon and a rabbit. The thin, crispy shell wraps around sweet matcha cream or red bean cream—rich yet never too heavy. Its complex flavor layers win over many at first bite.
In addition to the classic matcha and red bean flavors, seasonal varieties like white peach and peanut are also available.
We recommend picking up both the classic and seasonal flavors to enjoy a fun taste comparison!
- Price (tax included):
- 5 pcs: 648 yen
- 10 pcs: 1,026 yen
- 20 pcs: 2,700 yen
Kanagawa Souvenirs: A Blend of Tradition and Trends
Souvenirs from Kanagawa don’t just reflect local culture—they also follow the pulse of modern trends.
Take the Salt Financier Vanilla, which drew attention thanks to its connection to a former idol, or the popular Dove Cake and Walnut Cake, now gaining more recognition through media features.
Each product is more than just a tasty treat—it’s a story and a part of Kanagawa’s identity.
Whether you want to feel the traditional craftsmanship of local artisans or explore the creative flair of the new generation, you’ll find it in these special souvenirs.
So when you visit Kanagawa, don’t forget to bring home your favorites—and let the flavors and memories live on with every bite!
