Zunda mochi is one of Sendai’s most distinctive sweets — soft rice cakes coated in a vividly green paste of mashed young soybeans (edamame), sweetened and lightly salted. The dish is said to date back to the samurai era, when warlord Date Masamune’s troops reportedly mashed beans with sword hilts during a campaign. Today it’s sold everywhere from department store basements to Sendai Station kiosks, as mochi, shakes, and even soft-serve ice cream.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Sendai, Miyagi |
| Hours | Shop hours vary; many all day |
| Admission | From ~¥300 for a small portion |
| Time needed | 15–30 min |
| Best time | Year-round |
What to Try
- Classic zunda mochi — soft rice cake in sweet edamame paste.
- Zunda shake, a smoothie-like drink version.
- Zunda soft-serve ice cream, a popular summer treat.
- Zunda-flavoured sweets and pastries in department stores.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with gyutan for a full Sendai meal.
- Pick some up while exploring Sendai city .
- Read our Miyagi overview .
Getting There
- By train: widely available at Sendai Station kiosks and department stores.
- On foot: shops throughout central Sendai.
Tips
The bright green colour is entirely natural, from young soybeans — don’t be put off by it. Zunda shake is a refreshing pick-me-up between sightseeing stops.
