Instagram is flooded with adorable taiyaki photos—a popular Japanese dessert spot in Hsinchu is drawing huge crowds.

▲ Many cute taiyaki photos have popped up on Instagram. (Photo/Netizen)chiayunyuProvided, please do not repost without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

By Chen Hanyin, Staff Reporter / Compiled Report

Hidden in an alleyway in Hsinchu City is an old house with a green door that sells snacks, tea, cultural goods, and lots of smiles. Its strong Japanese aesthetic attracts many visitors who love Japanese culture. The must-try signature treat is the “taiyaki.” A hot, fresh taiyaki paired with a rich cup of matcha makes for the happiest afternoon tea experience at *Nihonuo*.

▲ A drink plus one taiyaki (or roasted dango) combo costs about NT$110–130. (Photo/Courtesy of *Nihonuo. Snacks, Tea*) Facebook page.)Sashimi. Dim sum, tea.Facebook page.)

The owner shared that they initially started making taiyaki because their child loved it. They decided to run the shop with the belief of “making treats for family,” and all the desserts sold in-store are free from artificial additives. Ingredients are personally selected and prepared by hand, with two filling flavors: red bean from Wandan and custard. The crust comes in three randomly chosen flavors: matcha, black tea, or plain. Notably, everything—from the taiyaki crust and fillings to the sweet black sugar syrup used for the white mochi dango—is handmade.

▲ Handmade matcha dango look absolutely delicious. (Photo/Courtesy of *Nihonuo. Snacks, Tea* Facebook page.)

From initially researching online to taking baking classes and even visiting traditional taiyaki shops in Japan to observe the single-mold cast iron technique, their dedication eventually made them a skilled taiyaki artisan. Now, delicious taiyaki is finally served to customers.

▲ The dishware arrangement inside the shop has a strong Japanese vibe. (Photo/Netizen) Provided, please do not repost without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)piggypennyProvided. Please do not take unauthorized photos to avoid copyright infringement.)

▲ The taiyaki headgear has become the shop’s most fun promotional mascot. (Photo/Netizen) Provided, please do not repost without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)cc_1270Provided. Please do not take unauthorized photos to avoid copyright infringement.)

▲ Catching two taiyaki at once. (Photo/Netizen) Provided, please do not repost without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)cindy__0816Provided. Please do not take unauthorized photos to avoid copyright infringement.)

The owner also mentioned that one of the main inspirations behind *Nihonuo* was their love for Japanese culture, which led them to combine popular Japanese street snacks like taiyaki and grilled mochi dango into a traditional Japanese-style dessert shop. To create an authentic Japanese atmosphere, all cookware was brought back from Japan, and the taiyaki headgear lets customers have tons of fun. The old house’s Japanese-style afternoon tea time is filled with laughter.

▲ The vintage house with its green wooden door is photogenic in every shot. (Photo/Netizen) Provided, please do not repost without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)saranini_Provided. Please do not take unauthorized photos to avoid copyright infringement.)

*Nihonuo. Snacks, Tea (Old House, Cultural Exhibition Space)*

Address: No. 20, Dekao Street, Hsinchu City
Business Hours: 1:00 PM – 8:30 PM