When I walked into this small store I was so excited to see so many of the delicious treats I had enjoyed in Japan 10 years ago. As I went to check out, I was going to ask if they had castella cake, because when I was in Nagasaki I loved it. Imagine my joy as I got to the register and right to the left of me was the exact cake I bought in Japan: Nagasaki green tea castella. I almost cried.
This store was by far my favorite highlight of San Francisco and the prices are exactly what I would have expected! Now I am sadly back in Connecticut but I am enjoying my castella, mochi, and daifuku!
The customer service was fantastic! It's so fun to see what interesting and unique flavors they have. I was luckily able to pick up a limited edition flavor of mochi. I'm excited to see what else they come out with!
I also wanted to mention the wrapping service. They allow you to select a wrap (partially dependent on the size of your order) and secure your purchases neatly. Makes for a great presentation when giving a gift!
Strawberry mochi was pretty good and only cost ~$11 for a box.
This is my first time writing a review for any shop, so when I write a review, that's how you know this place is worth the visit!
Was super busy when I came for the first time. The ladies working were so friendly to me (I regret not getting their names) and more than willing to guide me around the store, as well as share a few samples :) I really felt that they cared for their customers, which I find to be rare.
All in all, the customer service was phenomenal and the mochi was fantastic! $9 for one of their boxes (I believe) and worth every penny! Would definitely pay them a visit the next time I'm in town!
They have some really good candy that they sell here as well as mochi boxes. If you haven't tried mochi, they have free samples here too!
I love how it's brightly lit and organized. It's very colorful in here it kind of reminded me of Tasty Sugar except the colors weren't visually overwhelming.
Definitely would love to come back here! I recommend this place.
I never miss a chance to stop by this store. It's an upscale mochi and cookie store with direct Japanese imports. They also have a large seasonal section which is always changing, so don't just get stuck buying your regulars, look around, especially during cheery blossom season when the Sakura sweets are available!
It's so easy to grab a lot snacks here. I really like the green tea cream mochi and the chocolate strawberry mochi. These also make great gifts. I'll be back soon to restock!
If you spend over $30 (it might be more) get you're parking validated.
I wish they had an online shop. The hard candies were good.
My absolute favorite product from Nippon-Ya is the Harajuku Mochi in those cute metallic foil boxes. Each box contains 16 soft, scrumptious mochi balls that will leave you wanting 538048635 more. The mochi come in chocolate/strawberry, chocolate, banana, and green tea/red bean (the strawberry/chocolate is by far the best).
There is so much more to Nippon-Ya than just mochi, however. There are different candies, crackers, and gourmet loose-leaf teas; cute accessories and tea-ware. Everything is perfect for gifting. :)
Make a reservation
Order online
Find the best restaurant in San Francisco
An error has occurred! Please try again in a few minutes