Gokabo facts for kids
Gokabo is a special Japanese sweet. It comes from the Saitama area, especially Kumagaya city. It's considered one of the top three sweets in Saitama. The other two are Soka rice cakes (Senbei) from Soka city and potato sweets (Imogashi) from Kawagoe city.
What is Gokabo?
Gokabo is a unique type of Japanese candy. It is known for its interesting texture and sweet taste. It's often enjoyed as a snack or with tea.
Where Does it Come From?
This sweet is a local specialty of Saitama Prefecture in Japan. It is most famous in Kumagaya city. People in this region have been making and enjoying Gokabo for a long time.
How is Gokabo Made?
Gokabo is made by hand, which makes each piece special. The process starts with a core that feels a bit like starch. This core is then covered with a sweet, sticky syrup. After that, a powder made from soybeans, called Kinako, is put on the outside. Sometimes, different colored soybeans are used to make Gokabo in various colors, like blue!
A Sweet History
Gokabo has a long history, going back about 140 years. It was first sold at a place called Tadenji Temple in Fudogaoka. During the Edo period (a time in Japanese history), this sweet was known by a different name: "5 rice bar."
Gokabo Today
Even today, Gokabo is a popular treat. Sometimes, it's even served in school meals for students in public elementary and junior high schools. This shows how much a part of the local culture it is. You can usually buy a pack of twelve pieces for about 400 yen.
