Himeji signature sweet
Shosha Sennen Sugi (Baumkuchen, 書写千年杉)
What It Tastes Like and Where to Try It in Himeji
Last checked: 2026-10
Our tasting notes
- Sweetness
- 3/5 · Medium
- Texture
- SoftFluffy
- Bean paste (anko)
- None — no bean paste
- Keeps for
- Varies by item
- Souvenir?
- Good for souvenirs
Tasting notes, not shop-verified.
What is Shosha Sennen Sugi?
A creative baumkuchen (layered cake) by Kineya, named after the ancient cedars of Mt. Shosha.
Shosha Sennen Sugi is one Himeji shop's own sweet, not a general type of wagashi you will find all over Japan. It is made mainly from wheat flour, eggs, butter and sugar. You may also see it called “thousand-year cedar baumkuchen”.
What the name means
書写千年杉
書写 (Shosha) is the mountain north of Himeji where Engyoji Temple stands. 千年杉 (sennen sugi) means 'thousand-year cedar', like the old trees around the temple. The rings of the baumkuchen echo tree rings.
Where to try Shosha Sennen Sugi in Himeji
FAQ
Is baumkuchen Japanese?
It came from Germany, but Japan has made it its own. Many Japanese confectioners sell their own versions.
Diet and allergy notes
Ask the shop about ingredients. Recipes differ from shop to shop, and we have not confirmed vegan, halal or allergen details for this sweet. If you have dietary needs, ask the staff before you buy.