Clovermusubi is famous for their elegant hanko/inkan (traditional Japanese signature stamps), each one crafted with care and style. That same spirit of artistry shines through in their sweets. Their Shiawase Dorayaki — meaning “Happiness Dorayaki” — has captured hearts and earned the OMOTENASHI SELECTION gold award for two years running. Imagine biting into fluffy, slightly chewy pancakes made from a perfectly balanced flour blend, wrapped around fillings prepared with only the finest ingredients. It’s a little taste of happiness in every bite, and a delicious example of Kyoto’s tradition of craftsmanship meeting modern creativity.
Clover Musubi Namba Walk – Photo Credit: Clovermusubi
Could you introduce yourself, discuss your background, and describe your role at Clovermusubi? Additionally, could you provide a brief overview of the company?
My name is Ayaka Sato. I am the store manager of Clover Musubi Namba Walk.
Clover365 Co., Ltd. is a company that handles everything from planning to manufacturing and sales. With the keyword “products that preserve traditional culture while evolving,” we entered the sweets industry, focusing on dorayaki.
What inspired Clovermusubi to transition from solely creating traditional hanko to crafting Japanese sweets like dorayaki?
Amid the challenges of digital government issues and the pandemic, we believed that the expertise we had cultivated over the years could be applied, and decided to challenge ourselves in the world of food, which has been loved for generations.
Customers browsing Clover Musubi Namba Walk’s selection – Photo Credit: Clovermusubi
How does the company’s background in craftsmanship (from hanko design) influence its approach to making Shiawase Dorayaki?
In seal making, we have always been meticulous about temperature control and the use of tools. This experience has been extremely valuable in dorayaki production.
The process of achieving the soft, chewy texture of the dorayaki, which is the most distinctive feature of the clover-shaped dorayaki, was made possible by the trial and error involved in creating stylish seals.
Could you discuss a little about the ingredients used when making your Shiawase Dorayaki? How are they sourced, and does the company incorporate a sustainable or local approach in the selection process?
We collaborate with manufacturers to obtain samples and make selections. We also consider the balance between cost and quality, and continue to work with them until we are satisfied with the results.
While the specialty ingredients vary depending on the material, we strive to use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
All the different flavored dorayaki – Photo Credit: Clovermusubi
Next, how about an overview of the various flavors offered?
For room-temperature products, in summer, we feature Setouchi lemon. In spring, we feature cherry blossom-flavored anko, and in autumn and winter, we offer products made with sweet potato and butter. We also have refrigerated products available, including many items made with whipped cream.
Our most popular item is the Mini Silk Thread Mont Blanc, and we also have a chocolate-filled chocolate mousse cake, which can be enjoyed like a Western-style cake.
Do you have a personal favorite? And what is the most popular among customers?
My personal recommendation is the three-color anko, which allows you to enjoy three flavors at once. Currently, it is available in a combination of koshi anko, matcha anko, and white anko.
The most popular product is the “Shiawase Dorayaki.” It is the standard product, made with only grain anko, but since the introduction of Clovermusubi, it has remained our top-selling item. The fluffy, chewy texture of the dough pairs perfectly with the sweet, carefully selected red beans.
Dorayaki close-up – Photo Credit: Clovermusubi
What does the future look like for Clovermusubi? Are there any exciting projects or flavors on the horizon?
Currently, we only sell our products in-store, but in the future, we would like to develop products that can be enjoyed by more people, including delivery options.
Due to the use of carefully selected ingredients, the expiration date is relatively short. We are committed to researching ways to deliver our products safely while preserving their flavor.
Since our main store is in Osaka, we thought it might be fun to create a flavor inspired by Osaka, such as okonomiyaki (laughs). What do you think?
It definitely sounds interesting! Do you have any final thoughts you’d like to share with Arigato Travel’s readers?
Our Namba Walk store held its grand opening in June.
Dorayaki is the perfect one-handed dessert for on-the-go snacking. We offer a variety of flavors, so please visit us soon.
We look forward to seeing you!
Clover Musubi Namba Walk front counter – Photo Credit: Clovermusubi
Thank you for sharing your time and story with us. Clovermusubi’s dedication to spreading happiness through every handcrafted sweet is truly inspiring. We’re excited for more people to experience the joy, care, and connection behind each delicious bite.
Learn more about Clovermusubi on:
Website: https://clover-musubi.jp/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clovermusubi_dorayaki/?hl=en
OMOTENASHI SELECTION: https://omotenashinippon.jp/selection/en/prize/2400-02-057/
Featured Photo Credit: Clovermusubi
