Panjū

　‘Panjū’ is a sweet that, whilst well known in Ise, is not widely recognised across the rest of the country. It is made by pouring batter onto an iron griddle with indentations, similar to those used for takoyaki, filling the indentations with sweet bean paste, and then baking them. It is said that the name ‘Panjū’ comes from the fact that it is a manju baked like bread, or perhaps because it combines the words for ‘bread’ (pan in Japanese) and ‘manjū’.

　‘Sōhonke Nanakoshi’, founded in 1901 and originally located in Jimbocho, Tokyo, is considered the birthplace of panjū. It is said to have become a staple of Ise’s local cuisine after the main shop relocated to Ise.

　There are several types of sweet bean paste available, but the classic choice is koshi-an (smooth red bean paste). As shown in the photograph, a distinctive feature is the sprinkling of aonori (dried green laver) on the surface. ‘Honey Panjū Matsuya’ is situated right in front of Kintetsu Ujiyamada Station, making it a convenient spot to pick up souvenirs.