Get Japan’s hidden gems Sign up!

A playful Tokyo sweet built around cut-out confectionery

CONTENTS

Katanukiya turns traditional sweets into a hands-on experience

Think cakes are just for eating? Katanukiya(カタヌキヤ) in Ginza 1-chome begs to differ. Here, baumkuchen isn’t just dessert—it’s a little hands-on adventure, with delicate layers baked to perfection and intricate cut-outs made using a rare water-jet cutter.

The name Katanukiya(カタヌキヤ) literally means “cut-out shop.” And the best part? You get to finish it yourself, turning each cake into a miniature masterpiece. Messy? Maybe. Fun? Absolutely.

Katanukiya Unveils ‘Fugaku Shokei’
Katanukiya Unveils ‘Fugaku Shokei’

A standout is the Fugaku Shoukei Baum(冨嶽小景バウム), inspired by Hokusai’s “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.” Ultra-high-resolution edible printing captures every peak, wave, and detail. Follow the printed lines, slice the artwork, and suddenly your dessert is interactive. Classics like The Great Wave off Kanagawa(神奈川沖浪裏)South Wind, Clear Sky(凱風快晴), and View of Mount Fuji from Owari(尾州不二見原) get a playful, edible twist.

The Great Wave off Kanagawa
The Great Wave off Kanagawa
South Wind, Clear Sky
South Wind, Clear Sky
View of Mount Fuji from Owari
View of Mount Fuji from Owari

For something more whimsical, try the Kabuki Panda Baum(歌舞伎パンダバウム). This panda-shaped baumkuchen sports kabuki kumadori lines—red strokes representing youth, courage, and strength. Cute, bold, and slightly ridiculous, all at once.

Kabuki Panda Baum
Kabuki Panda Baum

Taking it further is the Kabuki Panda Baum Renjishi (Strawberry)(歌舞伎パンダバウム 連獅子、いちご味), inspired by the kabuki performance Renjishi. A parent-and-child panda duo dances across the cake, while soft strawberry sponge releases a gentle, floral sweetness. It’s not just a souvenir—it’s a story you eat.

Kabuki Panda Baum Renjishi

There’s plenty more mischief at Katanukiya: seasonal treats for Valentine’s Day and Setsubun, plus playful character-themed baumkuchen featuring Sanrio and Moomin.

Every bite here is an experience. Tradition, craftsmanship, and a dash of whimsy collide, turning baumkuchen into a feast for the eyes—and the kind of edible fun you’ll remember long after your trip to Tokyo.

Note:Details such as prices, products, services, and special offers may change over time. We recommend checking with the business for the most up-to-date information before visiting or making a purchase.

Note: Kabuki Panda Baum and Kabuki Panda Baum Renjishi (Strawberry) are only available at the Katanu-kiya Ginza Main Store and Shochiku Kabukiya Honpo
.
Katanukiya
Ginza Main Store

■ 1F, Ginza no Ginger, 1-4-3 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
■ Tel: +81-3-3538-5011
* For other store locations, please visit the website: https://www.katanuki-ya.com

Shochiku Kabukiya Honpo
Tokyo Main Store

■ B1F, Tokyo Character Street, Tokyo Station First Avenue, 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
GINZA KABUKIZA Kobikicho Hiroba Store
■ B2F, Kabukiza, 4-12-15 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
■ Website: https://www.shochiku.co.jp/entertainment/goods/kabukiyahonpo/

Enjoyed this article? Share it!
CONTENTS