Kyoyamashiroya

With shichimi, part of the pleasure lies in blending your own rather than simply choosing a ready-made mix. Visitors describe starting with a basic blend at Kyoyamashiroya, then tasting it and adding ingredients to suit their preferences. Staff explain the ingredients as you consider the proportions, so you can adjust the heat and aroma—perhaps by adding more sansho pepper—to create a blend of your own.

Some visitors say they tasted their blend with dashi. Once they were happy with it, they filled a bottle to take home. People have also tried their shichimi with udon, pickles and rice. The experience continues beyond the time spent blending, as you think about what to use it with once you get home.

The shop also sells seasonings and other items, and visitors have mentioned receiving explanations about the ingredients. Whether you want to learn what goes into shichimi or find a blend that suits your taste, you can enjoy making your own and taking it home.