Ah, Yakimanju! Just hearing the name makes my heart leap with joy and excitement! Yakimanju is a beloved local specialty of Gunma Prefecture, and I am thrilled to passionately and enthusiastically tell you all about its charm!

History of Yakimanju

The history of Yakimanju dates back to the late Edo period. It is said to have originated from skewered rice flour dumplings that were grilled over a fire. Over time, this simple treat evolved through the efforts of local residents, becoming the delicious Yakimanju we know today. This treat has been a staple at festivals and fairs, cherished by many for generations​.

Characteristics of Yakimanju

The greatest charm of Yakimanju lies in its fluffy texture and the sweet and savory miso glaze. The dough, made from wheat flour, is allowed to ferment, giving it a unique, airy texture. Skewered on bamboo sticks, the dough is slowly grilled over charcoal, creating a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. The finishing touch is a generous coating of a special miso glaze, which gives Yakimanju its rich and deep flavor​ ​.

How to Make Yakimanju

Making Yakimanju is simple yet requires careful attention to detail. The dough is prepared by mixing wheat flour with water and allowing it to ferment. This fermented dough is then formed into small balls, skewered, and grilled over charcoal. Once the exterior is crispy, a special miso glaze is applied, and the Yakimanju is grilled a bit more to let the glaze soak in. This process ensures that the Yakimanju is perfectly flavored​.

Variations of Yakimanju

Yakimanju comes in various flavors and styles. Besides the classic miso-glazed Yakimanju, there are variations that use a sweeter glaze with added sugar or a soy sauce-based glaze. Seasonal variations include Yakimanju filled with sweet bean paste or topped with cheese, providing new and exciting flavors for enthusiasts to enjoy.

Yakimanju and Culture

Yakimanju is an essential part of festivals and fairs in Gunma Prefecture. Especially during local shrine festivals and summer fairs, many stalls offer Yakimanju, attracting both locals and tourists. Additionally, it is a popular treat made at home, bringing families together over this beloved dish​.

Access

You can find Yakimanju in many renowned shops across Gunma Prefecture. Here are some recommended spots and their access information:

• Toumiya Manju Shop (Gunma Prefecture, Numata City, Shimonocho 875-7): About an 18-minute walk from Numata Station. Free parking is available​ (Menma825)​.
• Harashimaya Sohonten (Gunma Prefecture, Maebashi City, Heiwa-cho 2-5-20): About 16 minutes by Gunma Chuo Bus from JR Joetsu Line Shin-Maebashi Station, then an 8-minute walk. About 10 minutes by car from Kan-Etsu Expressway Maebashi IC​ (Jalan)​.
• Sukehei (Gunma Prefecture, Ota City, Nitta-Kizaki-cho 526-11): About a 20-minute walk from Tobu Isesaki Line Kizaki Station. About 20 minutes by car from Kita-Kanto Expressway Ota Yabuzuka IC​ (Jalan)​.

Conclusion

Yakimanju stands as the soul food of Gunma Prefecture, with its rich flavor and deep cultural significance. The perfect balance of its fluffy dough and sweet and savory glaze captivates many. Indulge in Yakimanju and immerse yourself in its irresistible charm!