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Nagaoka Kyo Ogura Sanso “Karuta Hyakunin Isshu”

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Nagaoka Kyo Ogura Sanso “Karuta Hyakunin Isshu”

A rice cracker assortment inspired by the traditional Hyakunin Isshu poetry card game, featuring 10 different flavors to enjoy.

3.33 4

Last update :
Supervised by :  Ogurasanso Corp

Based in Nagaokakyo City, Kyoto Prefecture, Ogura Sanso is a long-established confectionery shop specializing in rice crackers. The brand is known for creating products that reflect the elegance of Heian-period culture and the world of classical Japanese poetry, particularly the Ogura Hyakunin Isshu anthology.

One of their signature items, Karuta Hyakunin Isshu, is a rice cracker assortment inspired by this classical poetry collection. It includes 10 varieties of arare and senbei (traditional rice snacks), each individually wrapped in packaging designed around the 100 waka poems. Flavors include the savory aroma of shrimp in Ebi Sakura, the spicy kick of Kyo Shichimi (Kyoto-style seven spice), and the rich blend of two cheeses in Kogashi Cheese. Other flavors include Salad, Nori Maki (seaweed-wrapped), Momiji (maple), Murasaki Imo (purple sweet potato), Mitsukake (sweet glaze), Almond Caramel, and Curry—each with a unique shape to match its taste.

The front of each wrapper features the second half of a waka poem (shimo-no-ku), while the full poem is printed on the back—making it possible to enjoy both the snack and a bit of classical poetry. With its elegant design and cultural charm, this confectionery is also a popular gift choice.

Highlights

  • A signature confection crafted by a long-established Kyoto maker.
  • Inspired by the Ogura Hyakunin Isshu poetry anthology.
  • Features 10 unique flavors.
  • Each piece is individually wrapped with a waka poem from the Hyakunin Isshu.

Photos

  • A set of 10 rice crackers, each with a distinct flavor and shape.

    A set of 10 rice crackers, each with a distinct flavor and shape.

  • Each package features a waka poem and an illustration inspired by the verse.

    Each package features a waka poem and an illustration inspired by the verse.

  • Available in four box sizes, from mini to large.

    Available in four box sizes, from mini to large.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Are brochures or informational materials available in foreign languages? (Please specify the languages.)
A

Yes, they are available. (Please note that availability may vary by store due to limited stock.)
Languages: English and Traditional Chinese

Q

Is it possible to return or exchange a defective product after opening the package?
A

Yes, it is.

Q

Can I purchase it overseas?
A

While there are no overseas stores, international shipping is available through their online store (via EMS).

Reviews

4

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • KEIKO
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    These Ogura Sanso rice crackers are seriously delicious. They have just the right amount of crunch without being too hard, and the rice flavor is very rich. There’s a great variety of flavors. Both the sweet and savory soy sauce flavor and the savory seaweed flavor are excellent. The seasoning is just right overall and not overly salty at all. When I keep them for myself to snack on while watching a show, I can’t help eating one after another.

  • BobbyJenny
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    When I came to Nagaokakyo in Kyoto and discovered Ogura Sanso's “Karuta Hyakunin Isshu,” I realized that traditional Japanese culture could be this interesting! Hyakunin Isshu is a classic Japanese waka poetry anthology featuring works by 100 poets. Ogura Sanso incorporates this classical culture into its souvenirs and product designs, allowing you to take in Kyoto's rich cultural atmosphere as you browse.

    What attracted me most in the store were the various designs related to waka poetry and karuta cards. They're exquisite and full of Japanese character, and everything from the packaging to the products feels high-quality. Seeing familiar Hyakunin Isshu cards especially makes you want to take a closer look and learn more about the story behind each poem.

    I think Ogura Sanso is more than just a place to buy souvenirs. It's also like a small window into Kyoto's traditional culture. The classical Hyakunin Isshu combined with modern product design feels historical without seeming too distant.

    If you like Kyoto culture, waka poetry, or Japanese-style souvenirs, I highly recommend visiting Ogura Sanso in Nagaokakyo. You can pick out a souvenir you like to take home and preserve some of the classical atmosphere of your Kyoto trip along with it.

  • Linda Liao
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    Ogura Sanso, a classic Kyoto rice cracker brand, has a crisp texture that isn't too hard to bite into, with a subtle rice aroma. They're also great for seniors and children.

    There's a wide variety of flavors, from classic soy sauce and seaweed and lightly salted to Japanese curry. Saga no Yaki is a classic sweet-and-savory soy sauce flavor with seaweed, while for something a little different, I recommend the curry-flavored Ogura Meigetsu, which is crisp and airy with a mild curry aroma.

  • Shih Shih
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    They have so many flavors—salt, black pepper, shrimp, and more! Lots of variety!

Details

Name in Japanese
小倉山荘「カルタ百人一首」
Manufacturer
Ogura Sanso
Price
vanity case (mini)756yen, vanity case (small) 1,242 yen, vanity case (medium)2,376 yen, vanity case (large)3,564 yen
Sales Locations
Ogura Sanso Chikubu-no-Sato Main Store, Minoh Garyo, other directly managed stores, and department stores across Japan
Expiration date
90days from the date of manufacture
Official Website
Official Website (English)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa