While there are many foods that can be easily carried around and eaten overseas, such as pancakes and crepes, Japan is not to be outdone.
In Japan, the culture of “konamono” (powdered food) has developed in a unique way, especially in Osaka, and now various products that have evolved are sold in every corner of the city.
One of the Japanese konamono items I recommend this time is “taiyaki.
Although it is called “eating and walking around,” eating while walking in a crowded place can cause trouble, so I recommend sitting on a bench in a park and enjoying the scenery while eating.
Please use it as a reference when you are looking for something easy to eat.
Caution!
Eating in crowded places can cause trouble, so we recommend that you sit on a park bench and enjoy the food while taking in the scenery.
Taiyaki｜A snack that has long been popular among the Japanese people
The best choice for a 3:00 p.m. snack or a small gift is taiyaki, which we recommend here.
Taiyaki is said to have originated in Tokyo in the late Meiji period (around 1909) and was invented at the “Naniwaya Sohonten” run by Seijiro Kobe.
The circular shape of Imagawa-yaki, which was popular at the time, was not selling well, so it was rearranged to resemble a sea bream, a symbol of good fortune.
The word “tai” (sea bream) is popular as a symbol of happy occasions, and this design change captured the hearts of the general public and led to its explosive popularity.
I don’t know why I have a craving for it, especially in the cold season.
Three Attractions of Taiyaki
I have summarized some of the attractions of taiyaki that I find attractive.
Variety of ways to eat and enjoyment of choice
Taiyaki is a food that imitates the shape of a “tai” fish, but which part of the fish to start eating is different for each person.
According to the results of a survey, approximately 60% of people prefer to eat it from the head first, while 17% prefer to eat it from the tail first, and about 2% prefer to eat it from the dorsal fin.
The head group prefers to taste the anko (sweet bean paste) first, while the tail group prefers to keep the crispy texture until the end, making the eating method itself a conversation starter. 2.
Perfect balance of anko (sweet bean paste) and dough
The standard structure of “plenty of red bean paste for the head” was supported by over 60% of respondents, who placed importance on the amount of red bean paste.
On the other hand, some respondents also say “the crunchy dough in the tail is a palate cleanser,” and the combination of sweetness and savory flavor is the reason why they have been loved for so many years.
Today, new ingredients such as chocolate and cream have been introduced, and the coexistence of tradition and innovation has become an attractive feature.
Cultural value as a good luck charm
In addition to the Japanese word “me-detai,” the shape of the sea bream is associated with folklore that says that eating from the head will make you ‘smarter’ and from the tail “faster.
In addition, the act of eating itself is a good omen, and is an element that has become familiar to people of all generations.
In Japan, the custom of “bringing good luck” has taken root since ancient times, so eating something in the shape of a sea bream, which is said to bring good luck, is a very Japanese thing to do.
Two recommended taiyaki shops
I have compiled a list of Taiyaki shops I recommend, both chain and independent stores.
Naruto Taiyaki Honpo
Naruto Taiyaki Honpo is a Taiyaki chain with 58 stores featuring the traditional “Itcho Yaki” method, which has been handed down since 1909. *As of April 2025
Each fish is carefully grilled over an open flame, resulting in a thin skin with a crispy texture and savory aroma.
Taiyakis made with azuki bean paste and Naruto kintoki imo (sweet potatoes) are popular.
Seasonal fillings are also available, and the menu is a fusion of tradition and innovation.
The company has many stores throughout Japan, with the Asakusabashi and Nihonbashi Ningyocho stores in Tokyo being representative.
Most stores are open from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but some also offer late-night hours.
In addition to cash, QR code payment (e.g. auPAY) is accepted, but this varies from store to store, so please click on the links below for detailed information on each store.
Asakusa Taiyaki Kobo “Guraku
The Asakusa Taiyaki Workshop “Guraku” is most notable for its “Taiyaki Experience ®️” using a commercial taiyaki machine, which allows visitors to experience the entire process from measuring the dough to baking, making six taiyaki per person.
For foreign visitors, an English-speaking program is also available.
The interior is a Japanese-style space with a shrine-like exterior based on red, ukiyo-e woodblock prints, and Japanese umbrella lighting.
A small Japanese garden is set up in the experience area and is designed for photo opportunities. Although there are no private rooms for groups, the restaurant is designed to create an at-home atmosphere that encourages interaction.
Asakusa Taiyaki Kobo “Guraku” Store Information
Location
2-3-2 Nishi Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0035 Nearest station: Asakusa station (about 8 minutes walk)
Located in the back alley of Asakusa area, the shop is marked by its red-colored, shrine-like exterior. It is within walking distance from sightseeing spots such as Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Street.
Business hours
- Take-out: 11:00-18:00
- Tiled cafe: 11:00-18:00
- Taiyaki experience®️: 9:00-22:00 (by reservation only)
*Please inquire if you wish to start before 10:00 or after 18:00
Main services
- Taiyaki experience ®️ (registered trademark)
- Using a commercial Taiyaki machine, you can experience the entire process from measuring the dough to baking
- Each person can make 6 Taiyakis and choose from more than 10 different ingredients including keyma curry and cheese, in addition to sweet bean paste and cream. – Time required: approx. 50 min (6 people or less)
- Fee: 3,850 yen for adults, 2,750 yen for elementary, junior high and high school students, 2,200 yen for visitors (tax included)
- Take-out menu
- In addition to the traditional grainy sweet baked goods, seasonal (cherry blossom, chestnut, and mugwort) and oddball varieties (green tea bean paste and sweetened tea leaves) are available. In addition to the traditional gran-taiyaki, we also offer seasonal specials (cherry blossom, chestnut, mugwort) and odd varieties (green tea bean paste, sweet potato).
- Zashiki Cafe
- Japanese umbrella lighting and Japanese garden-style space offer relaxation with gelato and drinks.
Reservations & Inquiries
- Phone: 070-4037-0101 (may not be available during business hours)
- Reservations through the official website: Available for 2-6 people (please inquire for 1 person or more than 7 people)
- Payment methods: Cash, credit card, PayPay, auPay, d-pay, Melpay supported
Notes
- Preschool children are accompanied by an attendant without materials
- Clothing: Wearing clothes that can get dirty is recommended (you can bring your own apron).
- Cancellation fee: 50% the day before, 100% on the day of the workshop.
Click here for details.
Asakusa Taiyaki Kobo “Guraku” Store Information
How to Enjoy Taiyaki
To enjoy taiyaki to its fullest, try these tips:
- Try eating from different parts: Find your own preference by eating from the head, tail, or even the belly.
- Try different flavors: Besides anchovies, try custard, sweet potato cream, or any other flavor you like.
- Share with others: The size is just right for carrying around or giving as a gift, so everyone can enjoy eating it together.
It is a wonder that the same taiyaki tastes better when eaten with someone else than when eaten alone.
You Can Enjoy Taiyaki Easily at Home!
Taiyaki, which can be enjoyed at food stalls and stores, can actually be easily enjoyed at home!
Since they are also sold as frozen foods, they can be conveniently prepared anytime by simply heating them up in a microwave oven.
If you want to enjoy crispy and savory taiyaki at home, please try
- Heat in a microwave oven (500W) for 30 seconds and take off the heat
- Bake in a toaster oven for 3 minutes on each side to make the surface crispy
*Medium heat baking in a pan with aluminum foil is also possible (with burn marks)
is good, please try it!
If you are interested, check out the following products on Amazon!
Rice-flour taiyakis are sticky and delicious, plus you get two different flavors for your money.
Kura Sushi Taiyaki (Set of 20)
Kurazushi is one of Japan’s three most famous conveyor-belt sushi chains, but they actually focus on sweets as well.
