Updated: Sep 24

When you think of Asakusa in Tokyo, the first image that comes to mind is probably the famous Kaminarimon Gate.

Did you know there’s a traditional Japanese sweet named after it? It’s called Kaminari Okoshi (literally “Thunder Rice Snack”).

At first glance, it looks like a simple square-shaped snack. But once you take a bite, you’ll hear a “crunch!” followed by a “crisp!”—a texture that’s light yet addictive. No wonder it has been loved in Japan for centuries.

The Taste

The charm of Kaminari Okoshi lies in its simple yet rich flavor.

Although it looks firm on the outside, it crumbles lightly when bitten into. The nutty aroma of roasted rice blends with the gentle sweetness of malt syrup, and peanuts add an extra roasted fragrance.

The flavor is sweet and slightly salty, rustic yet irresistible. It’s the kind of snack you don’t expect to be flashy, but somehow you just keep reaching for more.

A Snack with Good Luck

The word “Okoshi” in Japanese carries the meaning of:

to raise a house (prosperity for the family)
to raise a name (bring success and reputation)

Because of this, Kaminari Okoshi has long been considered a lucky charm sweet. It’s not just a snack—it’s also believed to bring good fortune and “raise your luck.” This made it a popular souvenir for people visiting temples, especially Asakusa’s Sensoji Temple.

A Sweet with 200 Years of History

Kaminari Okoshi dates back to the late Edo period (about 200 years ago). Street vendors in Asakusa began selling it to worshippers at Sensoji Temple. The name combines “Kaminari” (thunder, from Kaminarimon Gate) and “Okoshi” (to raise/bring good fortune), making it both catchy and meaningful.

Even today, Kaminari Okoshi remains a beloved souvenir from Tokyo. Many traditional shops in Asakusa still sell it, and modern versions with new flavors and stylish packaging are now available—proof that it continues to evolve while keeping its traditional charm.

In Summary

Kaminari Okoshi is more than just a crispy snack.

Roasted rice + malt syrup + peanuts = a perfectly balanced sweet & salty flavor
A symbol of good fortune in Japanese culture
A traditional sweet with 200 years of history that is still popular today

That’s why we’ve included Kaminari Okoshi in the Moncha Box, alongside other traditional Japanese sweets and matcha. Even if you can’t visit Asakusa’s Kaminarimon Gate, you can still experience the taste and culture of Japan from home.