Best Taiyaki in Tokyo? Visit the Legendary Naniwaya Sohonten

Introducing Naniwaya Sohonten — A Famous Shop Known for Its Long Lines

“Taiyaki,” a fish-shaped sweet treat, has recently gained popularity in the United States. But did you know that the version found in Japan is quite different in both taste and appearance from its American counterpart? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the taiyaki from Naniwaya Sohonten — the shop believed to have created the very first taiyaki in Japan — and share everything from store information to directions on how to get there.

Located in Azabu-Juban, Tokyo, Naniwaya Sohonten is widely recognized as the original taiyaki shop. Since its founding in 1909, the store has continued to make taiyaki using the same traditional method and recipe, preserving its authentic flavor for over a century.

How Does the Original Taiyaki Differ from the American Version?

In the U.S., taiyaki is often made with a batter similar to waffles or pancakes and typically filled with sweet cream or fruit. In contrast, the taiyaki from Naniwaya Sohonten is made with a simple flour-and-water batter, resulting in a more traditional and subtly flavored treat. The crust is impressively thin yet full of flavor, with a lightly toasted edge that adds a pleasant finishing touch.

Inside Naniwaya Sohonten’s taiyaki, you’ll find a generous filling of chunky sweet red bean paste, full of the natural flavor of azuki beans. Its bold sweetness complements the lightly toasted crust, making it a favorite among red bean lovers.

The filling is packed from the very top of the taiyaki’s head to the tip of its tail, so you can enjoy the delicious anko in every bite. One reason this shop remains so popular is that visitors can watch skilled artisans handcraft each taiyaki right before their eyes.

How Much Does Taiyaki Cost at Naniwaya Sohonten?

Each taiyaki is priced at 200 yen (tax included). If you’d like a boxed set, six pieces are available for 1,200 yen. Many customers buy them in bulk, which shows just how popular these taiyaki are as gifts or souvenirs.

Where Can You Buy Taiyaki from Naniwaya Sohonten?

Taiyaki is now widely available throughout Japan and has even evolved in creative ways in the United States. Still, it’s remarkable that in Japan, you can enjoy the original version just as it was when it was first created.

The only place you can buy taiyaki from Naniwaya Sohonten is at their shop in Azabu-Juban, Tokyo. Since it’s not sold anywhere else and still retains the same flavor as it did over a century ago, this beloved shop continues to attract long lines of devoted local fans.

Naniwaya Sohonten Store Information

The easiest way to reach Naniwaya Sohonten is by public transportation. Take the Toei Oedo Line or the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line and get off at Azabu-Juban Station. Use Exit 4 to reach street level. From there, walk along the Azabu-Juban shopping street in the direction of Roppongi. When you arrive at the first traffic light with a crosswalk, turn right — you’ll probably see a line of people waiting. That’s your sign you’ve found Naniwaya Sohonten. If you’re looking to try the original taiyaki in Tokyo, this is the perfect place to visit!

About Naniwaya Sohonten