Ueno Zoo in Tokyo is known for its pandas so there are many cute and interesting panda-related snacks and treats in the Ueno area. In this feature, we write about some of our favorite treats that are just as adorable as the pandas in the zoo! Make sure to add these must-try goodies to your list when visiting Tokyo.
Panda poop
Panda no unko (meaning panda’s poop) is exactly what the name suggests and is sold only at Ueno Land which is within the station premises.
A matcha-flavored rice cracker that is made to appear like poop, the shape and color are quite true to reality.
On the shelf it says that no matter the shape, size, or color, it is the same as real panda poop!
It probably seems quite small for the size of a panda (lol)! Since panda mostly eat bamboo, the green is obvious.
This is a really interesting souvenir that can only be bought in Ueno, and it will definitely bring joy to people.
Shop name：Ueno Land (上野ランド PRODUCED by ケンエレファント)
Address: Inside JR East Station on the 3rd floor (7-1-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
Business hours：8:00-22:00（Sundays and public holidays～21:30）
Panda Nikuman (Meat bun)
This shop near Ueno Park is tiny and nondescript with few dishes on the menu.
Almost all the customers here come for the panda-shaped steamed meat buns. Aren’t these unbelievably cute? Almost too cute to eat.
If you’re not a fan of meat, then try the chocolate buns also shaped like panda.
Shop name：Kamonka (過門香)
Address：1F, 1-1-52 Ueno Koen, Taito-ku, Tokyo (東京都台東区上野公園１−１−５２-1F)
Business hours：11：30-22：00
Panda Bread
Right next to the panda bun shop, there is a bakery that attracts a lot of customers. This shop sells all kinds of animal-shaped breads and snacks all year round which are extremely popular among children. The most popular one is this cube bread with an image of panda and soccer balls.
There are several flavors and often limited editions are created during festivals and to celebrate special events. For instance, when Xiangxiang was born, the one below was created showcasing a baby panda and a congratulatory message.
The water bottles here are also shaped like a panda!
Shop name：Ueno-no-Mori no Panya-san (うえのの森のパンやさん)
Address：1 Ueno Koen, Taito-ku, Tokyo (東京都台東区上野公園１)
Business hours：6：30-22：30
Panka Cupcake
Called “Oyasumi Panda-chan” (Good night, Panda), this cupcake brought a massive smile to everyone who saw it: A lazy, fat panda lying on top of a cake!
Unfortunately, this store is temporarily closed but we still wanted to introduce it as the concept is incredibly cute.
Shop name：Tokyo Entotsu Cafe（東京えんとつCAFE 上野店）
Address：B1F Ueno Marui, 6-15-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo (東京都台東区上野６丁目１５−１ 上野丸井 B1F)
Business hours are the same as Marui business hours (Store temporarily closed)
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