Kuri yose, also known as chestnut steamed yokan, is a traditional Japanese confection that has long been cherished by the people of Hida Takayama in Gifu Prefecture. This elegant sweet is known for its generous pieces of chestnut embedded in a smooth, gently sweet red bean paste.
To make kuri yose, high-quality domestic chestnuts are steamed and combined with smooth red bean paste made from azuki beans grown in Hokkaido. The mixture is then carefully steamed for more than two hours, creating a firm yet tender texture that brings the ingredients together beautifully.
The sweetness of the chestnuts complements the restrained sweetness of the red bean paste, resulting in a refined flavor that allows the natural character of each ingredient to shine. Large pieces of chestnut throughout the confection add a satisfying texture and make every slice a treat.
Kuri yose is sold for a limited season, generally from September through January, when fresh chestnuts are available. Its seasonal appeal makes it a popular souvenir from Hida Takayama, particularly for visitors exploring the region in autumn.
If you visit Takayama during the chestnut season, be sure to try this traditional steamed sweet. With its generous chestnut pieces, delicate sweetness, and long-established local heritage, kuri yose offers a delicious taste of autumn in the Hida region.