It’s almost June and it’s getting hotter by the day. If you’re looking for a refreshing snack to beat the heat this summer, look no further than Taito City’s Yanaka, where you can enjoy the unique Japanese seaweed product, tokoroten. This cold, slippery delicacy is the perfect treat on a hot day, and Yanaka's Sanyo Shokuhin is the place to try it.

Located in the heart of Yanaka, Sanyo Shokuhin is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. In addition to their hand-rolled tokoroten, they also serve delicious anmitsu, a sweet bean paste with a delightful combination of different textures, including firm jelly, and sweet fruits, that is the perfect complement to the cool and refreshing tokoroten.

But what exactly is tokoroten? Made from boiled red seaweed that is cut into thin noodle-like threads, tokoroten is a unique and high-fiber food product with a satisfying and crunchy, yet smooth texture. It's a snack that's both healthy and delicious, and perfect for those looking for something a little different. At Sanyo Shokuhin, you can even take home their homemade "Tezuki Tokoroten" for a treat later.

But Yanaka has more than just sweets. Step into a bar for lunch and enjoy a beer in a rustic atmosphere. Stop by a paper shop and check out the colorful patterns made with chiyogami paper. Or simply stroll down Sansakizaka Street and Yomise-dori Street to get a feel for the nostalgic Japanese atmosphere, all while trying out sweets like Japanese style French toast or "kakigori" shaved ice with toppings so amazing that you will doubt your eyes!

Don't be afraid to venture out and try something new this summer. Head on over to Yanaka and visit Sanyo Shokuhin for a taste of their refreshing tokoroten and anmitsu. Trust us, it'll be the coolest decision you make all summer!

How to get there: Sanyo Shokuhin usually operates from 10:00 to 18:00 and is a three minute walk northeast from Sendagi subway station.

*Please note that photos are for illustration purposes only. Actual tokoroten and anmitsu may vary from store to store.