Akita Morokoshi is a local confection classified as a type of rakugan (a pressed, dry sugar confection), made by mixing red-bean (azuki) flour with sugar, pressing it in wooden molds, and slowly baking it. Its origin is said to trace back to 1705 (Hoei 2) in the Edo period, when Satake Yoshitada, the 4th lord of the Kubota domain, had a parched-rice confection made to reward his retainers for their service. Later, Sugiyama Ryosaku, the founding master of the confectionery shop Sugiyama Jusando, presented a confection made with red-bean flour to Lord Yoshitada, who praised it highly, saying it 'surpassed every other confection in flavor' — and this remark is said to be the origin of the name 'Morokoshi.' (There is also another theory that the name instead derives from 'morokoshi,' a word of Chinese origin, so its precise etymology remains debated.) With a history spanning more than 300 years, it is known for its refined sweetness that melts gently in the mouth and the fragrant flavor of red beans, and it remains beloved today as a signature souvenir confection of Akita.
Origin
The origin of Akita Morokoshi is said to trace back to 1705 (Hoei 2) in the Edo period, when Satake Yoshitada, the 4th lord of the Kubota domain, had a parched-rice confection made to reward his retainers for their achievements. Later, Sugiyama Ryosaku, the founding master of the Akita confectionery shop Sugiyama Jusando, presented Lord Yoshitada with a confection he had refined using locally produced red-bean flour, and this is said to have been the turning point that led to the confection's present form.
History
The red-bean confection presented to Lord Yoshitada is said to have delighted him greatly, and the Sugiyama family reportedly received the title of official purveyor to the domain as a result. The most widely known account of the name's origin holds that it comes from Yoshitada's remark that the confection 'surpassed every other confection in flavor,' but another theory traces it instead to 'morokoshi,' a word of Chinese origin — so it should be noted that the name's true derivation is not settled. It is also said that during the Boshin War the confection was presented to the commanders of the imperial pacification forces in the Oshu region and received their commendation, and it has been made continuously as a celebrated Akita confection for more than 300 years.
Features
It is a dry confection classified as a type of rakugan, made primarily from red-bean flour and sugar, pressed into shape in wooden molds without adding extra moisture, and then slowly baked at a low temperature. It is known for the light, melt-in-the-mouth texture and the fragrant, refined sweetness of the red beans, and shops offer their own variations, including a premium-baked type made with wasanbon sugar.
Main Ingredients
Food Culture
Having originated as a confection presented to the domain lord, it has taken root in Akita households as a gift for celebrations and condolences and as a treat served to guests. Because it is a baked confection made in wooden molds, it keeps well, and it has long been valued as a souvenir to send to those living far away.
Famous Shops
元祖 秋田諸越本舗 杉山壽山堂
秋田市川尻町字大川反233-199
The original shop, said to have been founded in 1705 (Hoei 2). Akita Morokoshi is available from around 594 yen for a box of 10 pieces.
View details →| 秋田諸越（菓子舗榮太楼） | Morokoshi made by a long-established Japanese confectionery shop in Akita City founded in 1883 (Meiji 16). The lineup includes several varieties, such as products featuring the Kanto Festival lantern-pole motif.Where to buy →PR |
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FAQ
Q. What is the origin of the name 'Morokoshi'?
A. It is said to come from a remark by the domain lord, Satake Yoshitada, who praised a red-bean confection presented to him by Sugiyama Ryosaku, founder of Sugiyama Jusando, saying it 'surpassed every other confection in flavor.' However, another theory holds that the name instead derives from 'morokoshi,' a word of Chinese origin, so its precise etymology remains a matter of debate.