Japanese Candy, a Cultural Treat

The Best Japanese Treats

The world of candy and treats is vast, but it is undeniable that Japan holds a special place in the hearts of sweet lovers.

Japanese candies are known for their quality, diversity, and creativity. But what do we truly know about these sweet delicacies from the land of the rising sun? In this article, we offer you a journey into the world of Japanese candies, from subscription boxes to the most typical products, through the best places to procure these treats. So, join us on this sweet adventure at the heart of Japanese culture!

Subscription boxes: a monthly gastronomic journey

Subscription boxes have become a real phenomenon in the West. These boxes, delivered monthly, contain products carefully selected to introduce and allow you to taste treats from Japan. With this type of subscription, you receive a selection of Japanese candies every month at an affordable price . Most of the time, boxes also offer educational content, such as a booklet explaining the history and meaning of the sweets, as well as information about Japanese culture.

Among the most popular subscription boxes, we find TokyoTreat, JapanCandyBox or Bokksu. Each box has its own selection of treats, sometimes in partnership with renowned Japanese manufacturers. Prices vary depending on the quantity of candies and the duration of the subscription, generally between 20 and 50 euros per month.

Dagashi: traditional and affordable sweets

Dagashi are traditional Japanese sweets, often cheap and sold in small shops called "dagashiya". These candies are often associated with childhood and nostalgic memories of the Japanese. Dagashi come in different forms, from puffed rice cakes to gummy candies, caramels, and chocolates.

Among the most iconic dagashi, we find "Umaibō", puffed corn sticks available in many flavors, and "Kurukuru Taiyaki", wafer fish filled with cream. If you want to discover these traditional treats.

Japanese KitKat: a symbol of creativity

KitKat is a British-origin chocolate that has been a resounding success in Japan. Since the 2000s, the country offers unique and sometimes surprising KitKat flavors, which delight chocolate lovers and tourists. The flavors range from the most traditional, like matcha green tea, to the most exotic, like purple sweet potato.

The variety of Japanese KitKat is such that there are even stores dedicated to this treat, like the famous "KitKat Chocolatory" in Tokyo. If you want to get Japanese KitKat outside the country, specialized sites such as JapanHaul or Japan Centre offer a wide range of flavors for online purchase. You can also find Japanese KitKat on general sales platforms like Amazon.

Japanese candy promotions: where to find them?

If you are looking for cheap Japanese candies, several options are available to you. First, you can turn to the specialized sites mentioned earlier, which regularly offer promotions and special deals on a selection of treats.

Another solution: local events around Japanese culture, such as conventions and markets, are often an opportunity to discover Japanese candies at reduced prices. Finally, do not hesitate to inquire at Japanese grocery stores in your city, which may offer discounts on certain treats.

Japanese salty snacks: for a change of tastes

Japan doesn't just shine in the world of candy and sweet treats. The country also offers a wide variety of salty snacks , reflecting the richness of Japanese gastronomy. Among the most popular salty snacks, there are "senbei" (puffed rice cakes), "kaki no tane" (spicy persimmon seeds), or "wasabi peas" (peas coated with wasabi powder).

These snacks are usually sold in individual bags but can also be included in subscription boxes, like those mentioned above. To get Japanese salty snacks outside of Japan, you can turn to specialized sites, Japanese groceries, or online sales platforms like Amazon.

In sum, Japanese candies are a real gastronomic and cultural treasure, worth a closer look. Whether you're a simple curious or a true aficionado, these treats will offer you a savory journey to the heart of Japanese culture. So, ready to be tempted?

Japanese chewing gum: an interactive experience

Chewing gum in Japan are a category apart in the world of Japanese candies. Indeed, they offer an interactive and playful experience, which appeals to both children and adults. Some chewing gums are even designed to change color or flavor as you chew, making the tasting even more fun.

In addition to classic mint or fruit chewing gums, Japan offers original flavors, like matcha green tea, sake, or yuzu. Furthermore, some Japanese chewing gums are also enriched with vitamins or beneficial ingredients for health, such as propolis or xylitol. These chewing gums are usually sold in individual packages, but can also be included in monthly boxes of Japanese treats.

To get Japanese chewing gum outside the rising sun country, you can turn to specialized sites, Japanese groceries, or online sales platforms such as Amazon.

Japanese Treats for Valentine's Day: A Revisited Tradition

In Japan, Valentine's Day is a special occasion for treats, particularly chocolates. Indeed, Japanese tradition dictates that women give chocolates to men they appreciate, whether it's feelings of love or friendship. This is why Japanese treat manufacturers compete creatively to offer original and tasty chocolates.

Among the typical Japanese treats for Valentine's Day, of course, we find the famous Kit Kat milk chocolates, but also chocolates shaped as hearts, flowers, or other romantic patterns. Some Japanese chocolatiers even offer chocolates with unique flavors, like wasabi, chili, or black tea. Finally, red bean paste-based treats, like "anko" or "daifuku", are also popular during this celebration.

Conclusion

Japanese candies are a window into Japanese culture, offering unparalleled diversity and creativity in terms of treats. Whether you're a fan of snack boxes, exotic Kit Kats , traditional dagashi , interactive chewing gums, or Valentine's Day treats, you're sure to find your happiness among the countless Japanese products.

So don't hesitate any longer and dive into the sweet adventure of Japanese candies, for a gastronomic journey to the land of the rising sun !

FAQ

What is a Japanese candy?

A Japanese candy is a popular traditional treat from Japan. These candies are usually made from sugar or rice syrup and colored with fruits, herbs, or spices.

Where can I find Japanese candies?

You can buy Japanese candies in specialty stores for Asian products, as well as in some supermarkets and online stores. There are also many websites that offer Japanese candy subscriptions.

What is the typical flavor of Japanese candies?

Japanese candies often have a sweet and sugary flavor with a hint of acidity. The most common flavors are green tea, peach, lemon, melon, orange, and grape.

Can we consume Japanese candies every day?

Like any type of treat, it's important to moderate consumption. Japanese candies are very caloric and often contain a lot of sugar. Therefore, it's better not to eat them every day.

What are the nutritional benefits of Japanese candies?

Although they are mainly composed of simple sugars, Japanese candies also contain vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, and vitamin C. Plus, they can be rich in antioxidants and fiber.