Hyogo Specialty “Akashiyaki” — Different from Takoyaki? A Hidden Kansai Delicacy
When you think of Kansai food, takoyaki and okonomiyaki often come to mind,
but are you familiar with Hyogo Prefecture’s specialty “Akashiyaki”?
It’s a superb dish featuring a fluffy batter wrapped around springy Akashi octopus,
and the distinctive way to eat it is by dipping it in a special dashi broth.
It may look like takoyaki, but it’s a completely different food!
In this article we’ll take a close look at the history of Akashiyaki, how to eat it, and famous shops!
What is Akashiyaki? — Eggy, soft, custard-like takoyaki
1. Basic information about Akashiyaki
Akashiyaki is a batter-based dish from Akashi City in Hyogo Prefecture that contains lots of eggs.
Unlike takoyaki, it is characterized by a higher ratio of eggs and dashi (broth) than wheat flour.
Because of that, you can enjoy a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture!
The history of Akashiyaki and its birthplace “Akashi”
1. Origins of Akashiyaki
Akashiyaki was born in Akashi City, Hyogo Prefecture, more than 100 years ago.
Locally it is also called “tamago-yaki” (egg-yaki).
Akashi is famous for its octopus, and it’s said that Akashiyaki started when leftover egg yolks from making Akashi-dama (glass fishing floats) were mixed with wheat flour and starch to make a kind of egg pancake, and octopus was added to that dish, which developed into the Akashiyaki we know today.
2. Why Akashi octopus is so tasty
Akashi octopus ranks among the best in Japan.
The reason is the strong currents in the Akashi Strait.
These currents make the octopus meat firm and bring out a natural sweetness!
Four Akashiyaki shops you should try in Hyogo
1. Honke Kimuraya (long-established shop)
Location: 5-23 Kajiya-cho, Akashi City, Hyogo
Opening hours: Around 10:00–17:00
Features: Traditional Akashiyaki! A beloved local classic
2. Tako Iso (amazing dashi!)
Location: In front of Akashi Station
Opening hours: Around 10:00–19:00
Features: The secret is their carefully crafted special dashi
3. Funamachi (popular shop with queues)
Location: 5-12 Zaimoku-cho, Akashi City
Opening hours: Around 10:00–18:00
Features: A favorite among locals! Enjoy Akashiyaki fresh off the griddle
4. Akashiyaki Go (new-style variations)
Location: 2-1-4 Honmachi, Akashi City, Hyogo
Opening hours: Around 11:00–21:00
Features: Offers creative, slightly different takes on Akashiyaki
Tips for enjoying Akashiyaki
1. Dip it in the dashi
Unlike takoyaki, the basic way to eat Akashiyaki is to dip it in dashi!
The light dashi flavor paired with the soft, custardy batter is exquisite.
2. Eat it fresh off the griddle
Akashiyaki will deflate if it sits too long, so
enjoy it piping hot right after it’s cooked!
3. Sauce on top is an option too!
Some shops serve Akashiyaki with sauce on top.
The combination of sauce and dashi is surprisingly tasty, so it’s worth trying.
Practical information for travelers
1. Where can you eat Akashiyaki?
Within Hyogo Prefecture, especially around Akashi Station, there are many famous shops!
Area features — Around Akashi Station: Numerous authentic Akashiyaki shops! Kobe City: You can also find places to enjoy it in Kobe. Osaka & Kyoto: Some takoyaki shops offer Akashiyaki as well.
2. How much does Akashiyaki cost?
Typically, a single serving (10–12 pieces) costs about ¥500–¥800.
Shops that use higher-grade Akashi octopus may charge over ¥1,000.
3. Are there Akashiyaki souvenirs?
Frozen Akashiyaki for takeout is sold.
Heat them in a microwave or oven and enjoy them with dashi!
Summary and FAQs
Summary
- Akashiyaki is an egg-rich batter specialty from Akashi City in Hyogo Prefecture!
- Unlike takoyaki, it’s customarily eaten dipped in dashi.
- Akashi octopus is springy and delicious thanks to the strong currents.
- The area around Akashi Station has many long-established shops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between Akashiyaki and takoyaki?
A: Akashiyaki has more eggs and is eaten with dashi. Takoyaki is usually served with sauce!
Q: Where can I eat Akashiyaki?
A: The best place is around Akashi Station in Akashi City, Hyogo Prefecture, but you can also find it in Kobe and some places in Osaka.
Q: What’s the recommended way to eat Akashiyaki?
A: The basic way is to dip it in dashi, but it’s also tasty with sauce!
Finally
If you visit Hyogo, you absolutely must try Akashiyaki!
Enjoy the superb combination of fluffy batter and springy Akashi octopus!
