[Gunma specialty, Yakimanju] A delicious B-grade gourmet with an addictive sweet and salty taste

What is Yaki Manju?

Yaki Manju is a local gourmet specialty representing Gunma Prefecture. It is a traditional food made by skewering fluffy buns, coating them with a special sweet and savory miso sauce, and grilling over charcoal.

In Gunma Prefecture, it has long been a soul food cherished by locals and is also a popular B-grade gourmet dish among tourists.

You can often find it at festivals and events, and you can also enjoy it at specialty stores within the prefecture.

Unlike typical "manju," it is characterized by not having any filling (anko) inside. The exterior is crispy and fragrant, soaked with sweet and salty miso sauce, making it a delicacy!

This article will introduce the history of Yaki Manju, recommended ways to enjoy it, and information on renowned shops.

The Charm of Yaki Manju

1. The Soul Food of Gunma Residents! What is its History?

The origin of Yaki Manju is said to date back to the Edo period, spreading around Maebashi and Takasaki in Gunma Prefecture.

① Why Did It Spread in Gunma?

Gunma Prefecture has long been an area where wheat cultivation thrived, resulting in many local dishes made using wheat.

Yaki Manju is also a dish made from fermented wheat flour dough, and it became beloved in Gunma, where the wheat culture was well established.

② The Fluffy Texture Unique to Fermented Foods

The dough for the buns uses yeast, which creates a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior when grilled!

The sweet and savory miso sauce clings well, making it an addictive taste.

2. How to Eat Yaki Manju and Variations

① The Classic Way to Eat

Yaki Manju is typically served with about four skewered buns and is most delicious when eaten hot!

Since the miso sauce is generously applied, be careful when eating!

② Unique Variations of Yaki Manju

Recently, various variation versions have appeared.

• Yaki Manju with Anko: Contains sweet red bean paste
• Cheese Yaki Manju: Perfect match with miso sauce and cheese!
• Custard Yaki Manju: Enjoyable as a dessert

③ Popular as Souvenirs Too!

In Gunma Prefecture, "Yaki Manju Sets" for souvenirs are also sold.

You can bake them at home using a frying pan or oven, making them a great gift!

3. Recommended Yaki Manju Shops in Gunma Prefecture

① Harashimaya Sohonke (Maebashi City)

A long-established store with over 150 years of history, considered the origin of Gunma's Yaki Manju culture.

The fluffy dough and fragrant miso sauce are exquisite!

• Business Hours: 10:00–17:00
• Closed: Wednesdays
• Access: 10 minutes by car from Maebashi Station

② Torihira Main Store (Takasaki City)

A popular restaurant offering Gunma’s local cuisine. The Yaki Manju here is also exceptional!

• Business Hours: 11:00–21:00
• Closed: Open daily
• Access: 15 minutes on foot from Takasaki Station

③ Tanakaya (Isesaki City)

A well-known shop preserving traditional methods, characterized by its rich Yaki Manju with a strong miso flavor!

• Business Hours: 10:30–18:00
• Closed: Thursdays
• Access: 10 minutes by car from Isesaki Station

Useful Information for Travelers

Access Information (How to Get to Gunma from Tokyo)

Access by Train

• Tokyo to Takasaki: About 50 minutes by Shinkansen
• Tokyo to Maebashi: About 1 hour 30 minutes by JR Takasaki Line + Ryomo Line

Access by Car

• Tokyo to Maebashi: About 1 hour 30 minutes via the Kan-etsu Expressway
• Tokyo to Takasaki: About 1 hour 15 minutes via the Kan-etsu Expressway

Wi-Fi Information

• Free Wi-Fi available at major tourist spots and cafes
• Some local areas may have weak signals, so downloading necessary information in advance is recommended

Language Support

• Tourist information centers offer pamphlets in English and Chinese
• Some tourist spots and restaurants offer English support



Conclusion and Frequently Asked Questions

Yaki Manju is a traditional B-grade gourmet representing Gunma Prefecture.

Its sweet and salty miso sauce and fluffy dough are beloved by locals.

When visiting Gunma, be sure to try the authentic Yaki Manju!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the recommended way to eat Yaki Manju?

A: It's best to enjoy it hot with plenty of miso sauce!

Q: Is it sweet or salty?

A: The miso sauce is sweet and salty, with a rich flavor.

Q: Where can you eat it?

A: You can find it at Yaki Manju specialty shops, stalls, and tourist spots in Gunma.

Q: Can you find it in Tokyo?

A: It's rarely spotted in Tokyo, but it may be sold at events like Gunma fairs.

Q: Is takeout available?

A: Takeout sets are sold, so you can enjoy it at home!

Q: How is Yaki Manju different from regular Manju?

A: Yaki Manju is characterized by not having filling inside! You can enjoy a different texture and taste compared to regular Manju.

When visiting Gunma, be sure to try "Yaki Manju," a beloved local delicacy!