Are you after some cheap traditional snacks in Aizu-Wakamatsu? Visit Tarōyaki Sōhonpo (太郎焼総本舗) for its nostalgic atmosphere and its local sweet treat! It is a fantastic spot to take a relaxing break, enjoy a budget-friendly treat (pastries are typically around ¥130–¥160 each), and soak in the retro charm of Nanukamachi. Whether it is the standard homemade red bean paste or other fillings such as custard, the filling in the round cake will overflow in your mouth with a bite! From the shop’s window, you can see the staff making the snack at the counter. The scene and the sweet smell of the snack would definitely entice you to place an order!
The Signature Specialty: Taroyaki
Tarōyaki is a variety of Ōbanyaki (大判焼) or Imagawa-yaki (今川焼き), a thick, pancake-like grilled pastry stuffed with sweet fillings. In the Aizu region, this sweet is traditionally called “kintsuba” (distinct from the square, thin-skinned kintsuba found elsewhere in Japan). Don’t give it a pass just because you have tried it elsewhere. Many customers were impressed by the Ōbanyaki made at Tarōyaki Sōhonpo.
- The Fillings: The classic version features a generous amount of sweet, coarse red bean paste (ogura-an) made from Tokachi-grown azuki beans, known for its mild sweetness and full texture. The shop also offers a wide array of other varieties, including white bean paste, custard cream, chocolate, and cream cheese.
- Age-Taro (あげ太郎): A highly recommended variation is the “Age-Taro,” where the taroyaki is deep-fried, providing a delicious contrast of a crispy exterior and a warm, sweet interior.
Tip: On a hot summer day, how about a Taroyaki topped with ice cream?
The Cafe & Atmosphere
The shop is housed in a charming, two-story building designed with a Taisho-era retro look, marked by a distinctive hand-carved wooden sign. Despite the shop’s products and appearance, its dining area has a contemporary vibe. In fact, the decor and the furniture on the second floor suggest nothing about what the staff is making in the kitchen. But that is okay. The space is perfect for a friend gathering. There are even sofa seats for you to rest on!
- First Floor: You can see the pastries being freshly grilled through a street-side glass window, perfect for grabbing quick takeout.
- Second Floor: Features a unique, retro-themed cafe space equipped with comfortable sofa seating and eclectic decor. It even includes a small display of antique miniature cars and a grand piano. The shop periodically hosts live music events for local musicians.
Tarōyaki Sōhonpo’s Must-See Staircase
Pay attention to the staircase before climbing up to the second floor. We were pleasantly surprised by the artistic risers!
Every single riser is decorated with a unique, individual panel featuring traditional Japanese art and motifs. The designs vary from step to step, showcasing elements such as crescent moons, stylised pine trees, floral patterns (such as chrysanthemums), and geometric emblems against alternating dark, cream, and red backgrounds.
Other Menu Items
Order a cup of their home-roasted coffee if you plan to dine in. After all, doesn’t dessert and coffee go hand in hand? If you aren’t a coffee person, their black tea is also nice. Various flavors of homemade shaved ice are also available all year round.
- Year-Round Shaved Ice (Kakigori): The shop serves exceptionally popular shaved ice throughout the entire year, utilizing finely shaved ice and delicious homemade syrups (such as matcha milk and mango).
- Beverages: They serve fresh, house-roasted drip coffee, which pairs beautifully with the warm pastries.
Tarōyaki Sōhonpo’s Business Hours and Access Information
- Tarōyaki Sōhonpo is open from 10 am to 7 pm.
- It is a 6-minute walk from Nanukamachi Station (七日町駅).
Explore the Recommended Cafes and Restaurants in Aizu-Wakamatsu’s Nanukamachi
If you want to keep exploring the vibrant local food scene, Taroyaki Sohonpo is just the beginning. The historic streets are packed with incredible dining options, ranging from cozy artisan bakeries right outside the station to traditional miso storehouses.
To plan your complete culinary itinerary through the neighborhood, check out this comprehensive guide to The Recommended Cafes and Restaurants in Nanukamachi, which highlights the best spots to eat, drink, and experience regional Fukushima flavors.
Discover the Top Traditional Sweets Makers in Aizu-Wakamatsu
Nanukamachi is a treasure trove for those who love traditional Japanese confections and the charm of historic streetscapes. Beyond iconic stops like Nagatoya, the area offers a variety of specialty shops perfect for souvenir hunting or a sweet afternoon break.
To help you plan your route through this nostalgic district, take a look at our complete list of recommendations here: The Top Shops to Get Traditional Sweets in Nanukamachi.
The Must-Visit Spots on Nanukamachi-dōri Street
If you are planning a trip to Aizu-Wakamatsu, pairing your sweet tooth with a walk down Nanukamachi-dōri Street allows you to experience the authentic Edo-period charm of Aizu’s old merchant town.
For a complete look at the area’s top cultural landmarks, historic spots, hidden gems, and local craft shops, check out our Comprehensive Guide to the Must-Visit Spots on Nanukamachi-dōri Street to help plan your walking itinerary.
