Japanese snacks combine unique flavors, varied textures and a touch of creativity. Deeply rooted in Japanese culture, they accompany gourmet breaks, travels and even moments of sharing with friends.
The History of Japanese Snacks
Since the Edo period (1603-1868), the Japanese have enjoyed traditional snacks such as senbei (rice biscuits) and dagashi (small inexpensive sweets). With Western influence, new products have emerged, giving rise to modern treats such as Pocky or chips with original flavors. Today, Japan is a veritable laboratory of gluttony, with innovative and seasonal snacks available in conbini (convenience stores open 24 hours a day).
The Different Types
Japan offers a huge variety of snacks, ranging from salty to sweet, with surprising textures.
Japanese Salty Snacks
- Senbei: Crunchy rice crackers seasoned with soy sauce, seaweed or wasabi.
- Kaki no tane: Mix of rice crackers and peanuts, perfect for an aperitif.
- Japanese chips: Original flavors like seaweed, wasabi, spicy mayonnaise or Japanese barbecue.
- Umaibo: Popcorn sticks available in various flavors, from cheese to takoyaki.
Japanese Sweet Snacks
- Mochi: Sticky rice balls filled with red bean paste, black sesame or even ice cream.
- Pocky: Biscuit sticks coated in chocolate, strawberry, matcha or seasonal flavors.
- Wagashi: Traditional sweets associated with the tea ceremony, often made with red bean paste.
- Dagashi: Small, inexpensive and fun sweets, popular with children.
Find these delicious snacks on Nippon Boutique and let yourself be seduced by Japanese authenticity.
The Art of Snacking and Aperitif in Japan
In Japan, snacking is a daily habit. The Japanese eat them during short breaks, on the train, at work or at school. But these snacks are also part of the aperitif culture, although different from that of the West.
The nomikai (evening with colleagues or friends) often takes place in izakaya (Japanese bars) where snacks such as kaki no tane, edamame or umami-flavored chips are shared. These accompaniments pair perfectly with a Japanese beer or sake.
A Taste Journey at Your Fingertips
Japanese snacks offer an explosion of flavors and an unrivaled diversity. Whether you are a sweet or savory lover, you will find what you are looking for in our selection available on Nippon Boutique.
Treat yourself to a gourmet break in the colors of Japan and savor these unique delights!
