A visit to Kamakura isn't truly complete until you've stepped inside Toshimaya, the legendary flagship store for the city's most beloved souvenir, the Hato Sablé. You'll find this charming shop right on the main Komachi-dori street, its traditional facade inviting you in. The air inside is filled with the sweet, buttery scent of their famous dove-shaped cookies, a delightful treat that has been a local treasure for generations.

History of Hato Sablé

Hato Sablé originated in 1897 when the founder was deeply inspired by a Western biscuit given to him by a visitor from overseas. At a time when butter was a rare luxury in Japan, he spent years perfecting the recipe through trial and error. With a deep affection for Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, he chose the 'pigeon'—a symbol long associated with the shrine—as the motif for its shape. Although it struggled to sell at first, the founder’s unwavering belief eventually made it the iconic Kamakura souvenir it is today.