Ningyoyaki is a beloved traditional Japanese sweet that dates back to the Taisho Period (1912 – 1926). Its place of origin–Ningyocho–once served as the city’s entertainment district, resplendent with puppet shows and kabuki performances. Thus, many of these little cakes are molded in the shape of dolls (appropriate, given that ningyo means doll), bunraku (traditional Japanese theater) puppets, or even Shichifukujin, the seven gods of fortune.
Ningyoyaki positively oozes charm, though that’s all they’re oozing considering the classic ones are filled with anko (sweet red bean paste), which takes a much more solid form. You can, however, find a variety of fillings including matcha, cherry blossom, and even custard. The modern era has also ushered in diverse molds including Hello Kitty, Doraemon, and many other iconic Japanese characters.
Nowadays, you will find ningyoyaki most commonly associated with the vibrant district of Asakusa, because the many fires throughout Ningyocho’s history forced local businesses to relocate.
Although there are many great ningyoyaki stores in Asakusa, I highly recommend Kimuraya Honten. Located right in front of the famous Senso-ji Temple, this local shop has committed more than 150 years to the art of ningyoyaki-making, and there’s no doubt they’ve perfected it. Not to mention, they serve various shapes including doves, five-story pagodas and the god of thunder, all of which are important symbols of Asakusa (makes for perfect souvenirs too).
Come take a delicious bite out of history at Kimuraya Honten!
Kimuraya Honten: https://www.gltjp.com/en/directory/item/14467/
Google Maps: https://g.co/kgs/pZheCiG