Must-Try in Koyasan! The classic vegetarian dish "Goma Tofu"

• Table of Contents
• What is Goma Tofu?
• Enjoy a Variety of Five-Colored Tofu Dishes at Kakuhama Goma Tofu Sohonpo
• Recommended souvenirs
• Conclusion

What is Goma Tofu?

"Goma Tofu", originating from Koyasan, is a unique ingredient primarily made from sesame seeds, setting it apart from the usual tofu made from soybeans. Sesame seeds are highly nutritious and were valued as medicine in ancient China.

The origin of the Goma Tofu is said to have been created as one of the vegetarian dishes consumed during the rigorous training of the Shingon sect at the sacred site of Koyasan, founded by Kobo Daishi (Kukai) around 1,200 years ago.

Since shojin ryori dishes do not use any animal-based ingredients like meat or fish, they tend to lack sufficient amounts of protein. Sesame seeds, therefore, containing high-quality protein, were consumed to supplement these deficits. To efficiently absorb nutrients from sesame seeds, "Goma Tofu" was born.

Although it resembles soft tofu in appearance, it is different from the usual tofu made from soybeans. Goma Tofu is made by removing the skin of raw sesame seeds, then, without roasting them, blending with water from Koyasan and Yoshino Kudzu (powdered starch made from the roots of kudzu plants), in a mortar and grinding them into a paste before cooking.

Source: Edited from "Sesame Tofu Wakayama Prefecture" (Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries)

Today, you can still enjoy Goma Tofu at the shukubos (Temple Lodgings) and restaurants nearby that offer vegetarian cuisines. Next, we introduce some recommended souvenirs and dining establishments in Koyasan where you can taste Goma Tofu.

Enjoy a Variety of Five-Colored Tofu Dishes at Kakuhama Goma Tofu Sohonpo

Founded in 1927 in Koyasan, Kakuhama Goma Tofu Sohonpo has been delivering its products to various temples within the mountain area for four generations, preserving both its techniques and traditions. It is one of the must-visit spots when traveling to Koyasan.

The store's Goma Tofu is meticulously crafted using carefully selected white sesame seeds and kudzu powder, following traditional methods. It features the rich aroma and flavorful taste of ground white sesame combined with the smooth and soft texture provided by kudzu powder. The abundant sesame fragrance and natural sweetness spread throughout the mouth, offering an unforgettable taste experience.

While delicious on its own, you can enjoy different flavors by pairing it with condiments such as wasabi soy sauce, sweet miso sauce, or grated momiji (Japanese horseradish).

The Odawara store, which opened in 2023, began selling the kaiseki cuisine "Gosai."

Dishes are served in wooden boxes modeled after traditional chests, blending the "Five Flavors" (salty, sweet, bitter, sour, spicy), "Five Colors" (green, yellow, red, white, purple), and "Five Cooking Methods" (boiled, fried, steamed, grilled, raw). This combination provides a menu that allows you to savor a variety of tastes.

Additionally, each store offers various menus such as "Shojin Ramen" made from the original Goma Tofu liquid and "Kakuhama Goma Tofu Kongō Kaiseki," whose seasoning changes with the seasons. These options enable customers to continuously enjoy new ways of experiencing Goma Tofu.

Kakuhama Sesame Tofu Sohonpo Odawara Store HP

Recommended souvenirs

Beyond the dining areas where you can fully enjoy the unique dishes, the sales corners at each store where you can purchase souvenir sets should not be missed.

Not only the classic Goma Tofu but also Baumkuchen (a type of German cake) generously filled with Goma Tofu is available for those who may not be accustomed to the unique flavor of Goma Tofu. With the toasty aroma of baked wheat, it's a wonderful souvenir that even those unfamiliar with Goma Tofu's flavor can enjoy. Be sure to try it!

Furthermore, in addition to in-store sales, Kakuhama Goma Tofu Sohonpo also offers nationwide shipping through their online shop. To allow those living far away to enjoy the flavors of Koyasan, they deliver fresh Goma Tofu via refrigerated shipping. The appeal lies in being able to enjoy an authentic Shojin (vegetarian Buddhist) dish at home.

Product List/Online Store

Conclusion

In this article, we introduced Kakuhama Goma Tofu Sohonpo as a place where you can enjoy Koyasan’s signature dish, sesame tofu, and as a shop where you can also purchase it as a souvenir.

Kakuhama Goma Tofu Sohonpo is a longstanding establishment that has supported the sesame tofu culture of Koyasan for over a century. Carefully crafted, their sesame tofu preserves the traditional taste while being a healthy dish that fits well on modern tables.

When visiting Koyasan, be sure to try their goma tofu at least once!

Photo credit:
1. Wakayama Tourism Federation, a public interest incorporated association
2. Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
3. Kakuhama Sesame Tofu Sohonpo