#Japan #Kichijoji #Tsuki no Usagi #Imagawayaki

Celebrating Tradition: Tsuki no Usagi Opens in Kichijoji

In a culinary development making waves across Tokyo, the beloved imagawayaki brand, Tsuki no Usagi, will open its first store in Kichijoji on July 11, 2026. Established in 1956, this 70-year-old establishment, known for its nostalgic flavors and high-quality ingredients, promises to bring joy to the locals and visitors alike with its delectable offerings.

Located in the Renga-kan Mall at 1-8-5 Kichijoji Honcho, Musashino City, Tokyo, the new location aims to replicate the success seen in its previous stores, where eager customers often wait up to 90 minutes for the fresh, hot imagawayaki. The shop has been popular since its pre-opening, selling around 2,000 pieces daily!

The Perfect Balance of Flavor

Tsuki no Usagi prides itself on maintaining an exquisite balance between its sweet red bean paste (anko) and its fluffy batter. The anko is a standout feature of their imagawayaki and is sourced from the reputable Kinoa, a renowned bean supplier that has been praised on TBS's Matsuko no Shiranai Sekai. Only the finest red beans from Hokkaido are used, ensuring each bite highlights the natural flavors of the beans, making for a refined, sweet experience that is not overly cloying.

The meticulous preparation process involves using a traditional copper pot for direct flame cooking, which enhances the depth of flavor, revealing the true taste of high-quality ingredients. The result is an imagawayaki that is not only tasty but also offers a textured experience that can be felt in each mouthful.

Committed to Quality Ingredients

Tsuki no Usagi has also set a benchmark for quality when it comes to sugar. They use Oni Zarakō, a premium sugar awarded a Gold Medal at the Monde Selection for three consecutive years. This high-purity white sugar has been painstakingly refined to remove any lingering mineral tastes, achieving a remarkable 99.9% sucrose content. Such careful processing results in a bright, crisp sweetness that is not achievable with conventional sugars.

The shop also emphasizes natural ingredients by refraining from using preservatives or colorings, ensuring that each imagawayaki is a wholesome delight. The shop's open-concept design allows customers to witness the baking process, adding a layer of connection to the experience and encouraging spontaneous visits throughout the day.

A Selection for Every Taste

Tsuki no Usagi offers two classic varieties of imagawayaki year-round: Tsubu An (chunky red bean paste) and Custard, both priced at 230 (excluding tax). Seasonal variations, including sweet potato and chestnut fillings, will also be available, providing customers with ever-changing options.

The convenient size of their imagawayaki means they are perfect for snacking while shopping, bringing joy to families, or serving as delightful gifts. With prices starting at 230, customers can easily indulge without breaking the bank.

The Heart of the Brand

The brand's philosophy is centered around evoking warmth through its traditional offerings and a comfy, inviting atmosphere. The name Tsuki no Usagi symbolizes a connection to the moon—a source of inspiration and a symbol of good fortune along with rabbits, which are known for their leaps forward and increased luck, making their imagawayaki perfect gifts for loved ones.

Founded by MARU Co., Ltd., based in Daikanyama, Tokyo, Tsuki no Usagi aims to be a beloved choice in the hearts of many while bringing back the charm of Japanese sweets to contemporary consumers.

Store Information:

• - Name: Tsuki no Usagi Kichijoji Store
• - Opening Date: July 11, 2026
• - Location: 1-8-5 Kichijoji Honcho, Musashino City, Tokyo, in Renga-kan Mall
• - Hours: 10:30 AM - 8:00 PM
• - Available Products: Year-round imagawayaki - Tsubu An and Custard, each priced at 230 (excluding tax), plus seasonal specialties.

As we look forward to the grand opening, Tsuki no Usagi is set to enchant Kichijoji with its flavorsome imagawayaki that represents both history and innovation in traditional Japanese sweets.