群馬県·和菓子
Usui Pass Chikara-mochi
Usui Pass is known as a difficult section of the Nakasendo highway. This "Chikara-mochi" (power rice cake) has long served as a source of strength for travelers crossing the pass. The name "Chikara-mochi" is ancient, said to be named after Usui Sadamitsu, a legendary strong warrior believed to have lived in this area during the Heian period. Eventually, it became a beloved snack at tea houses along the pass, providing energy to travelers and samurai, and established itself as a famous local specialty of the pass. Today, Ogino-ya—famous nationwide for their "Toge no Kamameshi" ekiben (station lunch box)—produces Chikara-mochi from their base in Yokokawa. It offers a simple, rustic flavor with soft mochi coated in sweet red bean paste, kinako (roasted soybean powder), and sesame. Enjoying it alongside the Kamameshi allows you to take the nostalgic atmosphere of the mountain pass home with you.
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