A sweet tribute to dorayaki

Today, and April 4th annually, is Dorayaki Day どらやきの日 in Japan. Dorayaki is a classic Japanese sweet made of two soft, fluffy castella‑style pancakes gently sandwiching a layer of smooth, sweet red bean paste. 

The date was chosen by Marukyo Seika, a long‑established wagashi maker based in Yonago City, because it sits neatly between the Girls’ Festival on March 3rd and Children’s Day on May 5th, echoing the way dorayaki “sandwiches” its filling between two cakes.

The numbers 4 and 4 (of April 4th, 4/4) also carry the playful meaning of “happiness together,” encouraging everyone to enjoy dorayaki with family and friends. Dorayaki Day invites people not only to savor this comforting treat but also to appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind one of Japan's beloved sweets.