A Hidden Discovery in Asakusa, Tokyo: Step into Yagenbori and find your very own blend of Shichimi Togarashi.
This small alley is located right next to the lively Nakamise shopping street, yet it offers a calm and quiet atmosphere which is completely different from the bustling crowds. The name “Yagenbori” itself carries historical meaning: yagen refers to the traditional tool once used to grind medicinal herbs, while bori means water canal, symbolizing a lane once filled with the fragrance of herbal medicine and the lingering spirit of the Edo period.

What draws the most attention here is the Yagenbori Shichimi Togarashi Main Store, which has been in business for over 300 years. Unlike ordinary shops that sell ready-made seasonings, this store offers a one-of-a-kind custom-made Shichimi Togarashi experience. You can choose according to your taste—spicier chili powder, the numbing aroma of sansho pepper, or the rich fragrance of sesame seeds—while the staff blends it right in front of you. As the spices are mixed, the aroma fills the air, and just standing at the counter is enough to whet your appetite.

In addition to Shichimi Togarashi, the shop also sells a variety of spices and Japanese-style seasonings, all in small and beautifully designed packages—perfect for souvenirs from Asakusa. Whether sprinkled over udon, grilled yakitori, or even miso soup, these blends can instantly elevate everyday dishes into meals with a true shokunin (artisan) touch. And if you happen to stroll here dressed in a Yae kimono, holding a freshly purchased pack of Shichimi Togarashi, the scene feels as if you’ve slipped back into the Edo period, allowing you to fully savor Asakusa’s unique traditional atmosphere.

Unlike the always-crowded Nakamise Street, Yagenbori feels more like a hidden corner known only to locals where you can take your time strolling and carefully choosing your favorites, adding a touch of surprise to your journey. On your next visit to Asakusa, why not stop by Yae Kimono first, dress into an elegant kimono, and then wander into Yagenbori? There, you can discover a Shichimi Togarashi blend made just for you—bringing home not only a seasoning, but also a piece of Edo’s unique flavor that lets your memories of Asakusa continue long after the trip.