The popular character Chiikawa has surprisingly transformed into Chiikawa Yaki! The first "Chiikawa Yaki" store has opened in Yokohama's Minato Mirai.
Right after its opening, it quickly became a hot topic, gaining so much popularity that it’s now difficult to get a reservation. In this article, we’ll thoroughly introduce the flavors and varieties of Chiikawa Yaki, highlight features of the store, and showcase limited-edition illustrated goods that you can only get here!
What kind of sweet is "Chiikawa Yaki"?
Chiikawa Yaki is based on taiyaki, a traditional Japanese sweet that has long been loved in Japan. Taiyaki is a sweet made by filling a fish-shaped (specifically, sea bream or "tai" in Japanese) batter with plenty of sweet red bean paste and grilling it on a special iron plate until crispy and fragrant.
Famous taiyaki shops can be found not only in Tokyo but across the country, known for their crispy, aromatic exterior and the densely packed red bean filling inside. Chiikawa Yaki is a cuter evolution of this sweet, taking the shape of the beloved Chiikawa characters.
What kind of shop is "Chikawa Yaki"? From the exterior to the interior, it's full of cuteness!
The Chiikawa Yaki shop is located in Yokohama World Porters, a popular shopping mall in the Minato Mirai area. This super-cute store has made a striking appearance in a corner of the first-floor restaurant zone. The interior features a traditional Japanese design with a warm reddish-brown color scheme, creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere.
At the fully glass-walled kitchen, you can watch up close as Chiikawa Yaki is freshly made. It's hard to take your eyes off the process as generous scoops of red bean filling are skillfully placed onto the soft, chewy dough. Even the waiting time feels like you're watching a live show!
Moreover, next to the cash register, a giant Chiikawa Yaki display has been set up as a photo spot. The illustrations of Chiikawa, Hachiware, and Usagi, wearing burgundy hand towels and working diligently, are incredibly cute!
The display realistically recreates even the chewy texture of the dough and the densely packed anko (sweet red bean paste) filling, showing an impressive attention to detail. It's a spot that will make you want to take photos spontaneously!
Trying the "Chiikawa Yaki"! What Does It Taste Like and What Sets Are Available?
There Are Six Types of Chiikawa Yaki! A Cute and Tasty Lineup
Chiikawa Yaki is not only adorable in appearance, but also offers a wide variety of flavors!
Currently, there are 6 different flavors in total. They are only sold in sets, and individual sales are not available. You can choose from the following 3 sets.
Set A (3 pieces) 1,050 yen (tax included)
- Chiikawa (Red bean paste)
- Hachiware (Cream)
- Usagi (Chocolate)
Set B (3 pieces) 1,050 yen (tax included)
- Chiikawa (Sweet potato paste)
- Hachiware (Sesame paste)
- Usagi (Cheese)
Set C (6 pieces) 2,100 yen (tax included)
All 6 varieties from Set A and Set B are available!
From the classic red bean paste to rich cream, aromatic sesame paste, and fragrant cheese flavor, this lineup makes you want to try all the varieties.
The chewy dough is filled generously with bean paste or cream! One bite spreads sweetness and savory flavors throughout your mouth. Despite being palm-sized, even one piece is quite satisfying. The aroma of freshly baked treats is irresistible, making you want to eat many.
Moreover, Chiikawa Yaki is produced by "Kuriko-an," a chain of taiyaki (fish-shaped cake) specialty stores across Japan. The deliciousness of their taiyaki is guaranteed!
*There is a purchase limit of up to 6 pieces per person (3-piece set × 2 or 6-piece set × 1)
Don’t Miss the Exclusive Chiikawa Yaki Illustration Goods!
"Chiikawa Yaki" also offers a wide range of limited-edition goods featuring original illustrations.
Each item is packed with the charm of the Chiikawa Yaki world—must-haves for fans. From keychains and mascots to everyday-use items like hand towels, you’ll definitely want to collect them all.
【Chiikawa Yaki Mascot】1,650 yen each (tax included)
(Chiikawa / Hachiware / Usagi)
A plush mascot with a fluffy form and grill marks that perfectly resemble the real thing. Attach it to your bag, and you'll be the center of attention!
【Chiikawa Yaki Bell Keychain】880 yen each (tax included)
(Chiikawa / Hachiware / Usagi)
A keychain with a cute tinkling bell sound. Perfect for a small gift.
【Chiikawa Yaki Gauze Hand Towel】825 yen each (tax included)
(Yaki Everyone /Everyone)
Made from soft gauze material, this hand towel is gentle to the touch, with an adorable illustration. It's a convenient item perfect for everyday use.
【Chiikawa Yaki Placemat】1,320 yen (tax included)
A Japanese-style Chiikawa Yaki design that brightens up your dining table.
【Chiikawa Yaki Lunch-sized Tote Bag】1,980 yen (tax included)
Perfect size for lunchtime or local outings.
Purchasing Chiikawa Yaki Requires Advance Reservation! How to Reserve?
Advance reservation is required to purchase Chiikawa Yaki. Lottery applications are accepted starting 14 days before the visit date and close 7 days before the visit.
How to Make a Reservation
- Go to the official website (https://www.chiikawa-yaki.com/)
- Click "Lottery Reservation Application"
- Select your desired date marked as 【Lottery Applications Open】, then click “Lottery Applications Open” next to your preferred time slot
- Enter your name, email address, and phone number, agree to the terms of use, and click “Send Confirmation Email”
- Follow the instructions in the email and wait for the lottery results
The lottery will be held 6 days before the reservation date. Winners will receive a notification email between 12:00 and evening on the day of the lottery draw. If the number of winners doesn't reach the capacity or if there are cancellations, first-come-first-served reservations will be accepted from 5 days before to the day before the visit date. If you didn't win the lottery, be sure to check for these opportunities!
Hugely Popular! What kind of character is "Chiikawa"?
"Chiikawa" is a manga series created by illustrator Nagano, which originated on X. It tells the story of the always-earnest Chiikawa and his friends Hachiware, Usagi, and other unique characters as they go through fun, bittersweet, and sometimes challenging daily adventures.
The franchise has expanded widely, including merchandise, collaboration cafes, and corporate partnerships. Kodansha has published seven volumes of the book series "Chiikawa: Nanka Chiisakute Kawaii Yatsu" (Something Small and Cute) so far. Additionally, since April 2022, the TV anime "Chiikawa" has been airing as part of the "Mezamashi TV" program (on Fuji TV network).
- Chiikawa Official X (@ngnchiikawa): https://x.com/ngnchiikawa
- Chiikawa Info: https://chiikawa-info.jp
Chiikawa Yaki Yokohama World Porters
- Address: 1F Yokohama World Porters, 2-2-1 Shinko, Naka-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa
- Business hours: 10:30~21:00
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Official Website: https://www.chiikawa-yaki.com/
- Official X: https://x.com/chiikawayaki
（C）nagano
If you're going to Yokohama Minato Mirai, these spots are also recommended!
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🎫 [Asoview!] VS PARK Yokohama World Porters Store Click here for discounted tickets
Yokohama Trick Art Museum
The new trick art museum "Yokohama Trick Art Museum" opened on Thursday, July 11, 2024, inside Yokohama World Porters. The theme of the Yokohama Trick Art Museum is "A Journey Through Time". It expresses the past, present, and future through "trick art," allowing visitors to enjoy a journey through time while appreciating the artworks. With a total of 51 pieces, the museum features many newly unveiled works and pieces incorporating innovative tricks, offering new surprises to visitors.
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