Stopped by a Local Sweet Shop in Saitama
While visiting Higashimatsuyama in Saitama, I came across a wagashi shop called Horikawa and decided to try their dango.
It’s a quiet local area, and the shop itself has a very traditional feel. I picked up both mitarashi dango and anko dango to compare.
First Impression of Horikawa
Horikawa feels like a typical neighborhood sweet shop.
What I Noticed
- Traditional storefront
- Calm and quiet atmosphere
- Mainly takeout
- Local customers dropping by
It’s not a busy tourist spot, but a place rooted in the local community.
What I Bought
This time, I tried two types:
- Mitarashi dango
- Anko dango
Both are standard choices, but it’s a good way to understand the difference in flavor.
Mitarashi Dango (Sweet Soy Sauce Flavor)
Appearance
- Nicely grilled surface
- Coated with a clear, glossy sauce
- Slightly caramelized look
Taste
- Sweet with a noticeable soy sauce flavor
- Slightly stronger seasoning compared to other shops
- A bit more punch in flavor
Texture
- Chewy overall
- Slight crispness on the outside from grilling
Compared to the one at Kadoya, this one feels a little more flavored and slightly richer.
Anko Dango (Red Bean Paste)
Appearance
- Topped with a generous amount of red bean paste
- Simple and clean presentation
Taste
- Mild sweetness
- Smooth and not too heavy
- Easy to eat even if you don’t like overly sweet desserts
Texture
- Soft dumpling base
- Smooth anko on top
This one feels more straightforward and traditional.
Comparing the Two
Trying both at the same time makes the difference very clear.
- Mitarashi dango → sweet + salty, more flavor
- Anko dango → sweet only, softer impression
If you want something with more impact, mitarashi is better.
If you prefer something mild, anko is easier to eat.
Overall Impression
Horikawa’s dango feels slightly more “finished” in flavor compared to very simple shops.
- Mitarashi has a stronger taste
- Anko is balanced and not too sweet
- Both are easy to eat as snacks
Nothing feels overdone, but there is a clear difference in how each item is presented.
Price
Prices are still very reasonable.
Price Range
- Around ¥100–¥200 per skewer
You can try both without spending much.
Real Taste Experience
Watch this short video to see the actual dango:
