Mitarashi Dango, the Savory Soy-Sauce Dumplings of Takayama

Takayama mitarashi dango are a humble snack of rice-flour dumplings skewered, brushed with soy-sauce glaze, and grilled to a fragrant finish over charcoal. While ordinary mitarashi dango wear a sweet, thick sauce, the Takayama version has a light soy-sauce flavor with restrained sweetness, making its savory aroma stand out. It is the perfect skewer to munch on while strolling the old townscape.

Highlights

The charm of Takayama mitarashi dango lies above all in their savory aroma. Storefronts where dumplings are slowly grilled over charcoal and the scent of soy-sauce glaze rises are a good landmark for exploring the old townscape. Freshly grilled, they take on a faint char, crisp and fragrant outside and chewy within. Along the Sanmachi streets, people gather drawn by the aroma of grilling dumplings.

Enjoying the Seasons

Mitarashi dango can be enjoyed all year round, but in the cold season a warm skewer grilled fresh over charcoal is especially welcome. Munching on dumplings amid a snowy winter landscape is something special. In summer they make a fine companion for sightseeing snacking, paired with a cool drink. Their appeal is that they can be enjoyed casually no matter the season.

Access and Basic Information

Mitarashi dango can be widely enjoyed around the old Sanmachi streets within walking distance of JR Takayama Station. Many shops sell them by the single skewer for snacking, so you can drop in casually between sights. Since many storefronts offer them freshly grilled, follow the aroma to find your favorite shop.

A Quick Tip

They are most delicious hot off the grill, so it is best to enjoy them on the spot once you buy one. If you are expecting a sweet dumpling you may be surprised, but the savory soy-sauce flavor is addictive.