Koshogatsu lucky charm “Chinkoro” begins sales at confectionery store in Yoshikawa-Ward (Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture)

2025.1.10

ChinkoroJoetsu CityYoshikawa KoshogatsuNiigata Prefecture

Sales of “chinkoro,” a good-luck charm for the koshogatsu season, will begin on Saturday, January 11 at Obamaya Confectionery in Yoshikawa-Ward, Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture.

Chinkoro is a lucky charm for the koshogatsu event, made of kneaded Uruchi rice in the shape of an animal or other object.

There are five types: the Chinese zodiac sign of the snake, a dog, a bird, a rabbit, and a Sarugobou. All are about 3 cm tall.

It is decorated at the entrance or on a Shinto altar at koshogatsu to wish for a bountiful harvest and safe delivery. It is said that the drier it gets and the more cracks it gets, the more bountiful the harvest and happier you will be.

Mr. Nakamura, Obamaya Confectionery Shop
The “snake” has a red tongue to make it look charming. This year is the year of the snake. I make these sweets with the hope that people will stay healthy throughout the year.

At the Obamaya Confectionary Shop, the confections are made by hand by Takashi Nakamura, the fourth-generation owner, and his mother, who will be 90 years old this year.

Until the 1930s, a seasonal market was held in winter in Yoshikawa Ward, where straw and bamboo crafts made by farmers and chinkoro made by confectionery stores were sold. Currently, the only shop selling chinkoro in Joetsu City is Obamaya confectionery in Kikkawa Ward.

Mr. Takashi Nakamura, Obamaya Confectionery Shop
I hear that people outside of Yoshikawa are not familiar with chinkoros. I would appreciate it if people know what chinkoro is. In Tokamachi, the city is actively making chinkoro. I hope we can do our best and somehow keep it going.

Chinkoro is a set of 5 pieces priced at 1500 yen including tax, and will be available at Obamaya Confectionery in Yoshikawa-Ward, Joetsu City from Saturday, January 11. To purchase, you need to make a reservation by phone in advance. Some visitors come from Niigata City and Nagaoka City as well as the city to buy chinkoro. Some people buy them to pray for success in entrance examinations.

Obamaya Confectionery　　Phone：TEL025-548-2020

Takahiro Nakamura, Obamaya Confectionery Shop
“I hope they will enjoy the cute decorations.