Matsuya no Ame

Strolling along the temple approach to Shibamata Taishakuten, visitors often pause at the sign for "Sekitome Ame," long treasured as a local specialty. As the signature sweet of candy shop Matsuya no Ame, these brown lozenges offer a soothing, unpretentious sweetness, blending rich brown sugar with the gentle, warming heat of ginger to comfort the throat.

The glass cases hold far more than the classic throat drops. Generously dusted with roasted soybean flour, the kinako ame features a pliable, taffy-like texture rather than a hard crunch, filling the mouth with toasted, nutty aroma. The sarashi ame, resembling smooth pebbles, has an addictive, delicate rice flavor, while colorful bags of red bean paste candies, ramune drops, and five-color candies round out the display.

With its classic, old-fashioned storefront, the shop offers easy takeaway, making it a delightful stop to pick up unpretentious souvenirs during a walk or sweets to accompany tea at home.