When strolling around Fukuoka, Japan, you might come across a shop with a glowing signboard that exudes a Showa era (1926–1989) vibe.
The signboard features the word “たばこ,” which means “tobacco.” At first glance, you might think this shop sells various types of cigarettes.
You could also be deceived by the rows of cigarette packs neatly displayed in the store’s window. But upon closer inspection, you’ll be surprised to find that this shop is different.
Here, you’ll discover a display filled with rows of pound cakes and an assortment of other sweet treats. It turns out this is actually a cake shop!
In this article, we’ll introduce you to “Akasaka Tobacco (赤坂煙草店)”, a unique cake shop in Japan with a “tobacco” theme. What kinds of cakes do they offer? Let’s take a closer look!
Akasaka Tobacco Cake Shop in Fukuoka
The Akasaka Tobacco Cake Shop is located near Akasaka Station in Fukuoka City, Japan. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the station.
Akasaka Tobacco does not sell cigarettes; instead, it offers cakes and desserts. Although the shop’s decor often confuses people, it exclusively sells delicious sweet treats.
The shop’s signature products are freshly baked pound cakes and various types of desserts, such as fruit tarts and cookies, all packaged in boxes resembling cigarette packs.
Detailed Information
- Shop Name: Akasaka Tobacco (赤坂煙草店)
- Address: Fukuoka-ken, Fukuoka-shi, Chūō-ku, Akasaka 3-13-22
- Access: Take the train to Akasaka Station, then walk for about 10 minutes
- Opening Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday | 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akasaka_tobacco_shop/
Read:
10 Christmas Cakes from Luxury Hotels in Japan
Cigarette-Box Shaped Cake Packaging
The cookies at Akasaka Tobacco are not only packaged in boxes shaped like cigarette packs; the cookies themselves are long and cigarette-like in appearance.
At first glance, the packaging might mislead people. However, humorously, the outside of the box features a warning label parodying those on cigarette packs.
The label humorously reads, “焼菓子は、あなたにとって体重増加の危険性を高めます” (“Baked sweets increase the risk of weight gain”).
This humorous touch swaps cigarette health warnings for the “side effects” of indulging in sweet treats.
According to customers, the cakes have a slight peppery note, giving them a “mature flavor.”
Akasaka Tobacco Pound Cake
Aside from the cigarette-shaped cookies, which make great souvenirs, the shop’s most sought-after item is its pound cake, which attracts a line of buyers before the shop even opens.
If you arrive too late, you might miss out as they sell out quickly. The pound cakes come in various flavors such as Japanese sake, apple oatmeal, blood orange, and more (flavors may vary). If you enjoy the soft texture of pound cakes, this shop is a must-visit!
Another unique touch is the sticker on the paper bags that reads “焼菓子は20歳から,” which translates to “Baked sweets are for ages 20 and above.” This is a parody of Japan’s legal smoking age of 20 years. Interesting, isn’t it?
If you ever have the chance to visit Fukuoka, don’t forget to stop by this unique cake shop. Bring home one of their signature pound cakes, find a cozy spot, and savor it slowly. Before taking photos at the shop, make sure to ask for permission from the owner!
