Umezono Sabo is located in a quiet area near the Kuramaguchi entrance to the Horikawa River in Kyoto. It opened in March 2016 as a sister store of Umezono, a long-established Kyoto sweet shop. The interior of the store, which was renovated from a former townhouse, blends Japanese charm with a classic Western atmosphere. Entering through the sliding doors, you'll see adorable decorative kan lined up in an antique showcase.




"Kazarikama" is a Japanese sweet made with bean paste made from tanned agar and bracken. Several types of "Kazarikama" are available for a limited time, using smooth bean paste, matcha, black tea, cacao, lemon, raspberry, and seasonal ingredients.

Climbing the slightly steep staircase, which retains the atmosphere of a traditional townhouse, leads to the second floor, where you can leisurely savor a sweet treat. The open atrium and the light streaming in through the windows are soothing, and the soft sounds of the piano are just the right size for a break during your trip.

The "Kazarikama" (decorative jelly) served in a tall cup made by Kyoto ceramic artist Tsuyoshi Takagi is beautiful, like a piece of jewelry, and its carefully decorated appearance is captivating. This time, I chose the popular matcha and cacao flavors, as well as the seasonal vanilla flavor. I decided to enjoy it with Ryusoen Koetsu's roasted green tea.

Kazarikama (cacao) 320 yen, roasted green tea 550 yen
After taking a break with the fragrant roasted green tea, I took a bite of the "Kazarikama." Its texture, which is more like a Western confectionery than you'd expect from its appearance, is similar to that of yokan. It's a sweet that perfectly blends Japanese and Western flavors, with a fresh, smooth texture and the full flavor of the bean paste. Each ingredient has a rich flavor, and the subtle accents of the simmered sweets and spices on top make it irresistibly delicious! I was able to discover a creative Japanese sweet that I had never tried before.


A dish that allows you to fully enjoy the rich taste of matcha. It goes perfectly with fresh cream, sesame seeds and simmered goji berries in honey ◎
Kazarikama (Matcha) 350 yen


The texture is just like raw chocolate. The simmered kumquats in honey are refreshing and just right.
Kyoto ichimi adds an accent.
Kazarikama (Cacao) 320 yen

The flavors of white bean paste and vanilla are almost like a Western-style pastry.
Topped with dill and homemade dried apples and apricots.
Kazarikama (Seasonal Vanilla Poire) 430 yen  

Takeout is also available. The packaging, decorated with an illustration of plum blossoms, makes it a welcome gift.


I would love to visit Kyoto again just to visit Umezono Sabo.