Taiyaki: A Traditional Japanese Sweet Recommended for Foreign Visitors to Tokyo
When visiting Tokyo, one of the must-try traditional Japanese sweets is **Taiyaki**. This delightful snack, shaped like a fish, is not only visually charming but also incredibly delicious, loved by both locals and tourists alike. In this article, we will explore what Taiyaki is, its history, and introduce you to three of the best Taiyaki shops in Tokyo.
What is Taiyaki?
Taiyaki is a fish-shaped cake typically filled with sweet red bean paste made from adzuki beans. Despite its fish-like appearance, there is no fish involved in making this treat; the shape is symbolic. In Japan, sea bream (called "tai" in Japanese) is a symbol of good fortune and prosperity, which is why the fish shape was chosen. The batter used for Taiyaki is similar to that of pancakes or waffles. It is poured into a fish-shaped mold, filled with the sweet filling, and then baked until golden brown.
While the traditional filling is sweet red bean paste, today you can find Taiyaki with a variety of fillings such as custard cream, chocolate, matcha (green tea), and even savory options like cheese or sweet potato. The texture of Taiyaki also varies from shop to shop, ranging from soft and fluffy to crispy and crunchy.
What is Anko?
Anko, the traditional filling for Taiyaki, is made from adzuki beans, which are unique to Japan. These beans are cooked and sweetened to create a paste that has a distinct sweetness and texture loved by the Japanese. Anko generally comes in two types: **Tsubuan**, which has a chunky texture with whole beans, and **Koshian**, which is smooth and refined. For Taiyaki, tsubuan is often preferred because it retains the rich texture and flavor of the adzuki beans.
The History of Taiyaki
Taiyaki was first created in Tokyo in 1909 by a man named Seijiro Kobe. He was inspired by **Imagawayaki**, a round-shaped confection popular at the time, and decided to make a fish-shaped version. This unique design quickly gained popularity, and Taiyaki has since become a beloved snack across Japan.
Top 3 Taiyaki Shops in Tokyo
Tokyo is home to many Taiyaki shops, but here are three that stand out for their exceptional quality and reputation.
1. Naniwaya Sohonten (浪花家総本店)
- Location: Azabu-Juban, Minato-ku
- Founded: 1909
- Highlights:
Naniwaya Sohonten is known as the birthplace of Taiyaki, having maintained its traditional taste for over a century. Here, you can enjoy Taiyaki with a crispy exterior and a generous filling of sweet anko. The shop is also famous for its celebrity visitors, including the lead singer of the rock band Aerosmith, Steven Tyler. During one of his tours, Tyler visited the shop, fell in love with Taiyaki, and shared his experience on social media, bringing even more attention to this historic shop. If you visit Tokyo, trying Taiyaki at Naniwaya Sohonten is an absolute must.
2. Yanagiya (柳屋)
- Location: Ningyocho, Chuo-ku
- Founded: 1916
- Highlights:
Yanagiya is another historic Taiyaki shop, renowned for its high-quality Taiyaki, which it has been serving for decades. The shop is always bustling with locals who cherish the consistent quality. Yanagiya’s Taiyaki is slightly smaller than average but is characterized by a perfectly crispy exterior and a moist interior. The sweetness of the anko is well-balanced, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural flavors of the ingredients. Visiting Yanagiya offers a taste of Tokyo’s rich culinary history.
3. Wakaba (わかば)
- Location: Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku
- Founded: 1953
- Highlights:
Wakaba, located in Tokyo’s Yotsuya area, is a well-established shop that has been serving Taiyaki since the post-war era. Wakaba’s Taiyaki is known for its firm, well-baked dough that perfectly complements the ample amount of anko inside. The balance between the crispiness of the outer layer and the smoothness of the anko filling makes it a memorable treat. Wakaba has been cherished by locals for generations, and its Taiyaki continues to attract visitors from afar. The shop takes pride in its traditional hand-made approach, ensuring that each Taiyaki is carefully crafted every day.
Enjoying Taiyaki
When you visit these renowned Taiyaki shops in Tokyo, you’re not just indulging in a delicious snack, but also experiencing a part of Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Each Taiyaki is a testament to the long history and craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations, making it more than just a sweet treat, but a cultural treasure.
You can also find Taiyaki at food stalls during festivals in Tokyo, where they are often served hot and fresh, making them the perfect snack to warm you up as you explore the city. Make sure to try Taiyaki during your visit to Tokyo and savor both its delightful taste and the essence of Japanese culture.
After enjoying Taiyaki, treat yourself to an outcall massage from Melody Tokyo, available from 5 PM to 7 AM.
コメントをお書きください