Make your own Dorayaki in Kawagoe

There are so many food options in Kawagoe, it can be hard to choose just a couple to try on a day visit. I am lucky that I have lived and worked in the area for 20 years, so over the years I have tried many. One I haven't tried yet, is the relatively new (by Kawagoe standards) Nankirou, which opened in April 2024. 

I attempted to tick it off my list this morning, but I arrived too early. I suspected it might not be open at 9 am, but I chanced it just in case. It opens at 10 am. Kawagoe tourist area generally doesn't really kick off until 10, even 11 am. The good thing about arriving before 10 am is that you can get photos of the buildings with few to no people in the foreground. 

I may not be able to review Nankirou yet, but I can share its existence for anyone visiting the area. What makes this cafe a little different from others is that you can make an "original dorayaki". The dorayaki uses freshly made pancake-style cakes, which are filled with your choice of gelato and toppings for a unique sweet treat. You can mix and match 16 gelato flavors and 11 toppings, creating one of 176 possible combinations. 

I love finding food experiences that go beyond simply buying a snack, and this feels like a perfect stop while exploring Kawagoe's famous streets. It also has a nice seating area outdoors, on a side street, but within earshot and sightline of the main tourist thoroughfare.  Moreover, there is a beautiful old kura (where you can make your own pottery) in view. Nankirou on Google Maps.