Hi, it’s Sachi!
When you think of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, the most famous food has to be Umegae Mochi — a sweet rice cake that everyone in Japan knows.
But there’s a special version that even many locals don’t know about!
It’s the purple Umegae Mochi made with ancient rice, available only on the 17th of each month.
Its soft, purple hue makes it look so beautiful — you’ll definitely want to take a photo before you eat it!
In this article, I’ll share the story behind this limited mochi, where to find it, how much it costs,and when you can get your hands on one.
💡 What is Umegae Mochi?
Before we dive into this special purple version, let me quickly explain what Umegae Mochi is.
It’s a warm, grilled rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste — the most famous local sweet in Dazaifu.
You can find it at many shops around Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, each with its own flavor and texture.
If you want to explore more, I’ve actually done a full Umegae Mochi Taste Test of 12 Shops in Dazaifu — check it out to find your favorite one! 🍵
The Story Behind the Purple Umegae Mochi
The purple Umegae Mochi with ancient rice is actually a recent creation — first made in 2015.
It was originally made to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Kyushu National Museum,
which is located just next to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.
The special mochi became so popular that it’s now sold only on the 17th of each month,
known locally as “Kyuhaku Day” (short for the museum’s nickname).
Since it’s a relatively new tradition, even many people living in Fukuoka don’t know about it yet.
That’s why it’s truly a hidden gem for visitors to discover in Dazaifu! ✨
Why Is It Purple?
The most distinctive feature of this special Umegae Mochi is its beautiful light-purple color.
This color comes from ancient rice that’s mixed into the dough.
Ancient rice contains a natural pigment called anthocyanin, a type of polyphenol that gives the mochi its lovely purple hue.
Anthocyanin is also known for its antioxidant properties, which are said to have beauty and health benefits — a nice bonus for anyone who enjoys sweets!
Plus, the ancient rice adds a chewy texture and a slightly toasty aroma, making this version of Umegae Mochi both unique and delicious to look at. 🍡
Where Can You Buy the Purple Umegae Mochi?
You can find the purple Umegae Mochi made with ancient rice at any shop along the approach to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine — the same places that sell the regular version.
It’s available only on the 17th of each month, so if you visit Dazaifu on that day, you’ll get to enjoy something truly special.
Most shops also sell the regular Umegae Mochi, so it’s fun to try both and compare the flavors!
According to the shop staff, they usually prepare plenty of the purple ones, but they can still sell out by late afternoon.
If you don’t want to miss it, try to buy yours around noon or earlier.
I Tried It Myself!
So this time, I bought the purple Umegae Mochi with ancient rice from Tenmaya, one of the popular shops along the approach to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine!
I chose Tenmaya because, during my Umegae Mochi Taste Test of 12 Shops, their mochi had the perfect toasty crust and rich flavor — one of my favorites! 😊
As for the taste of the purple one…
Honestly, it doesn’t taste that different from the regular Umegae Mochi (haha).
But the soft purple color gives it a festive and elegant look, and it still tastes absolutely delicious — just as you’d expect from Dazaifu’s famous sweet! 🍵
The 25th Is for Yomogi (Mugwort) Umegae Mochi
Actually, there’s another special day when a different type of Umegae Mochi is sold —
on the 25th of every month, known as “Tenjin-sama Day.”
This date marks both the birthday and memorial day of Sugawara no Michizane,
the deity enshrined at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.
To celebrate this meaningful day, a special Yomogi (mugwort) Umegae Mochi is made,
symbolizing the idea of “something special for a special day.” 🌿
A detailed page about the Yomogi Umegae Mochi is here!↓
Conclusion
Every month on the 17th, a special purple Umegae Mochi made with ancient rice is sold in Dazaifu.
If you’re visiting Japan around that time,
be sure to add Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine to your travel itinerary!
You’ll get the rare chance to try this limited-edition local sweet —
a treat that even many Japanese people have never experienced. 🍵✨
May your journey in Dazaifu be filled with happiness and good fortune — Sachi♪
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