Photo/Illutration “Kyo no Sensu Chocolat” cookies, a popular gift, feature designs drawn by an illustrator for “sensu” folding fans. (Yoshiaki Horiuchi)

Confectionary shop Gion Maicoto has more than its share of fans.

Operated by Maisendo, a company founded as a "sensu" folding fan store in 1968, Gion Maicoto boasts a sensu-shaped cookie called “Kyo no Sensu Chocolat” as one of its popular offerings.

Kneaded with white chocolate, the cookie is characterized by its crumbly texture.

The surface of each piece features a design drawn by an illustrator for sensu who works exclusively for Maisendo.

There are a total of five patterns, including four regular ones, such as camellia. The remaining one is seasonal theme.

Address: 244 Gionmachi-Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto.

Open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. Closed on Tuesdays and other days. Open every day in December and January.

Visit the official website at (http://www.maisendo.co.jp/maicoto.html).