Discover Nagoya’s Local Food and Culture with Tamasen at Dagashi-ya Kantenya

Preparing Tamasen, a staple of Nagoya's local food and culture, on the teppanyaki grill at Kantenya.

Tucked away in the far east of Nagoya’s Nakagawa-ku, in the quaint Todagawa area, lies a charming local dagashi-ya (traditional candy shop)  called Kantenya. In an age where traditional candy shops are dwindling, Kantenya is a precious find. This nostalgic spot is also famous for serving Nagoya’s beloved local snack, “Tamase.” A visit to Kantenya offers a delightful glimpse into Nagoya’s local food and culture. With a mission to preserve this culinary treasure as a part of Nagoya’s cultural heritage, I decided to pay a visit to Kantenya.

 

 

 

This is Nagoya’s Local Culture! Dagashi-ya and Tamasen!

 

Assembling Tamasen at Kantenya, showcasing Nagoya's local food and culture at a traditional dagashi-ya.
Assembling Tamasen.

 

 

So, what exactly is Tamase? Imagine a fried egg seasoned like okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake), sandwiched between crispy shrimp or octopus crackers. Eating Tamase at a dagashi-ya is a cherished part of Nagoya’s culture. Kids clutch their coins, figuring out how to buy both candy and Tamase within their budget, naturally learning arithmetic in the process. It’s a charming scene that combines food, fun, and education.

 

 

 

A close-up of a Tamasen, a staple of Nagoya's local food and culture, served at Kantenya, a traditional dagashi-ya.
Tamasen, a staple of Nagoya’s local food and culture.

 

 

Kantenya’s Tamase is a bit more special—picture a simple egg sandwich with cabbage, making it more filling than the usual version. They even have a deluxe version with yakisoba and a fried egg for those with a bigger appetite.

 

 

It is comforting and timeless, with a slow pace and a warm atmosphere.

 

Inside Kantenya, a traditional dagashi-ya in Nagoya, showcasing Nagoya's local food and culture with children selecting their favorite candies.

 

 

 

The exterior of Kantenya, a traditional dagashi-ya in Nagoya, showcasing Nagoya's local food and culture with children gathered outside.

 

 

The shop is run single-handedly by a lively old lady. She manages the hustle and bustle, cooking Tamase on the teppanyaki grill while chatting with the kids. She shared that Kantenya has been around since before the war, originally a greengrocer. Several decades ago, they began selling candy, and now she keeps the shop open to stay active and bring joy to the children. Even on days when she feels like taking a break, the sound of children’s voices outside the shutter motivates her to open up.

 

 

The elderly owner at Kantenya, a dagashi-ya, highlighting Nagoya's local food and culture.

 

 

 

A variety of colorful candies on display at Kantenya, highlighting Nagoya's local food and culture in a nostalgic dagashi-ya setting.

 

 

Kantenya is located in the historic Tomita district, an area known for its nostalgic, old-town vibe with narrow alleys lined with temples. This hyper-local setting adds to its charm, making Kantenya a delightful relic of the past. The diverse and plentiful candy selection often attracts kids with a couple of hundred yen, eagerly gathering to choose their treats. It’s a delightful throwback to the Showa era, a nostalgic and kind place loved by local children for decades.

 

 

 

A bustling scene outside Kantenya, a traditional dagashi-ya in Nagoya, highlighting Nagoya's local food and culture as children and families gather.

 

 

Kantenya represents a piece of culture that should be preserved not just in Nagoya but throughout Japan. In this digital age, having a place where local kids naturally gather is truly precious. The shopkeeper’s dedication and warmth are nothing short of inspiring.

 

 

 

Kantenya （かんてんや）

3 -831 Toda, Nakagawa-ku, Nagoya

 

 

 

LOCATION

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