A condiment made of dried baby sardines and tingly sansho peppercorns.
4 top-rated spots found
Widely considered the gold standard in Kyoto. Their 'O-jako' is famous for its moist yet firm texture and the use of high-grade sansho from Wakayama that provides a sophisticated, numbing tingle without overpowering the fish.
📍 3-227 Kiyomotocho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0084, Japan · View on Maps
Located near Kodai-ji, this shop is favored by locals who find the Gion brands too commercial. Their version is notably less salty, allowing the natural sweetness of the tiny sardines to shine through.
📍 493-1 Shimogawara-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan · View on Maps
Offers the best value for money in the city. While the shop is modest, the quality of the ingredients rivals the expensive Gion boutiques. It is a staple for Kyoto families.
📍 1-1 Murasakino Kamiyanagi-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan · View on Maps
Known for its vibrant, citrusy sansho profile. The packaging is iconic and quintessentially Kyoto, making it the most recognizable brand for domestic travelers.
📍 244 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan · View on Maps