Best Japanese Snacks of 2024
Discover the most delicious and innovative Japanese snacks of 2024 that are taking the world by storm. These delicious snacks range from unique flavors to innovative treats. Even though these Japanese snack foods include sweet and savory options, they share a common characteristic: they're beloved worldwide! Whether you prefer timeless Japanese snack choices or creative treats, this list includes a treat for every snacker.
Though these tasty treats are from Japan, you won't need to travel far to reach them. Sugoi Mart's selection includes an extensive list of popular Japanese snacks, such as Japanese Kit Kats and savory Japanese chips.
Continue reading to learn about the best Japanese snacks of 2024. Don't forget to catch up on the list of the best Japanese snacks of 2023 for more treat ideas!
Classic Japanese Snacks You Can't Miss
While Japan is known for its inventive snacks that appear in new flavors annually, it also offers a long list of classic sweet and savory snacks that have remained popular for years. Below are a few of the best Japanese snacks to enjoy in 2024.
Pocky
Pocky is a beloved treat that never goes out of style. With a delicious array of Pocky flavors, this sweet snack continues to fly off the shelves. It consists of a crispy biscuit coated in a creamy chocolate layer. Some flavors also include toppings, such as nut or cookie bits. Popular flavors include Almond Crush, Giant Yubari Melon, Giant Uji Matcha, and Pocky Original.
Japanese Kit Kats
Another one of the most popular Japanese snacks are Japanese Kit Kats. While Kit Kats are available globally, Japan has the most Kit Kat flavors of any country. These delightful crunchy chocolate bars come in 300+ options, with many featuring regional and seasonal flavors. Popular Japanese Kit Kat flavors include Frozen Cookies and Cream, Golden Caramel, Tokyo Banana, and Rich Matcha.
Senbei (Rice Crackers)
Senbei has been a popular savory snack in Japan for hundreds of years. These crispy rice crackers are typically crafted from glutinous rice and seasoning. Once baked, they offer a delicious light, crunchy texture. Though rice crackers are usually available in savory options, they occassionally feature sweet flavors. These crackers can also range in shapes, with some round and flat and others square. Some popular senbei flavors include soy sauce, Spicy Curry, and Shrimp Curry.
Caramel Corn
This is not your American caramel corn. Instead, this Japanese snack is more similar to corn puffs which feature a delicious, caramel flavor. Usually, there are also candied nuts at the bottom of each bag of caramel flavored corn puffs. This yummy snack is also available in unique flavors like Lemon Cake and Raspberry.
The Best New Japanese Snacks of 2024
Here are a few of the best Japanese snacks which launched in 2024. These Japanese snack foods have quickly rose to popularity, making them must-tries.
Royal Milk Tea Kit Kats
In Japan, royal milk tea is a beloved beverage that's crafted with black tea, like Assam. In 2024, Nestle released a Royal Milk Tea Kit Kat flavor that mimics this delightful drink. Though this option is not a regional flavor, it is an exclusive offering that will likely not be available forever.
Calbee Potato Chips Genovese Pizza
Another exciting flavor launch in 2024 was the Genovese Pizza flavor of Calbee Potato Chips. These crunchy chips taste like pizza topped with Genovese sauce and cheese. Expect a herby, rich, saucy flavor.
Koala's March Cheesecake Flavor
Koala's March has been a popular Japanese snack for many years. The original Koala March flavor includes a crispy biscuit outside and a creamy chocolate interior. The cheesecake flavor is a new offering that provides a creamy center that mimics the dessert it's named after.
Popular Japanese Chips to Try
Savory snackers can also rejoice with Japan's offerings, as there are a plethora of salty options. The following Japanese chips easily fall under the category of popular Japanese snacks, and for good reason. They feature delightful, unique flavors and textures.
Calbee Potato Chips
Locals will likely recommend Calbee Potato Chips as the first savory snack, as the brand is known for crafting delicious snacks with unique Japanese ingredients and flavors. This snack, made with real potatoes, is a favorite in the Japanese snack world. Some of the more exciting flavors include KFC Red Hot Chicken, Pizza, Spicy God Chili, and Overwhelming Barbecue.
Jagariko
Jagariko is another type of snack offered from Calbee. Instead of potato chips, this snack features crispy potato sticks which are sold in a cup. These sticks are remiscent of fries, but they're made through a more indepth process which includes steaming, mashing, straining, forming, and frying each piece. This process leads to a delightfully crunchy texture that allows Calbee Jagariko Sticks to stand out from other savory snacks. Some of the most popular Jagariko flavors include Cheese, Jagabutter, and Salad.
Koikeya Potato Chips
Another must-try brand is Koikeya, which specializes in savory potato and corn-based snacks. Their potato chips are particularly loved by fans of the brand, as they include authentic Japanese ingredients and flavors. Some of the top flavors include Pure Mixed Salt, Spicy Seaweed, and Seaweed & Salt.
Sweet Treats: The Best Japanese Confectionery
For those preferring sweet treats, Japan also offers a plethora of options. These popular Japanese snacks range from fruity to chocolatey, often using regional flavors and ingredients. A few of the most beloved Japanese snacks are noted below.
Hi-Chew
A long standing favorite, Hi-Chew candies offer a unique texture that is soft and chewy simultaneously. These sweet treats are known for their fruity flavors which provide a juicy taste for consumers. However, this is only a small portion of the offerings from the brand. There are a wide array of flavors (200+ currently), which range from spicy options to soda and dessert-inspired treats. A few popular flavors include Gold, Yogurt, and Shinshu Apple.
Meiji Chocolate
Meiji Chocolate is a confectionary company which has been serving customers since 1926. Originally, the candy company offered simple chocolate bars in Japan. However, it has since grown to include 20+ brands, each focusing on a different type of Japanese snacks. Some of their popular treats include Meiji Milk Chocolate, Meiji Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: Rich Strawberry, and Meiji Strawberry Chocolate Mini.
Mochi
One of the most popular Japanese snacks is mochi, a chewy, pillowy rice cake consumed for over 2000+ years. These sweet treats are crafted from glutinous rice flour and typically include a filling made with red bean paste or other local ingredients. It also usually features an exterior color that matches the flavor (for example, pink for strawberry). Mochi can come in various forms, including ice cream, chestnut doryaki, Triple Mochi Dango, or bite-sized mini mochi.
Bokksu is not responsible for the accuracy of the products’ nutritional or allergen information. Warning: California’s Proposition 65 may be in effect. For more information,visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. Some Bokksu Market products are produced overseas and may have a Production Date printed on the packaging, rather than a Best Buy Date as is standard in North America. If your product appears expired, do not be alarmed! This is most likely the Production Date. All items have been double checked to ensure they are not expired and safe to eat.
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Savory Delights: Japanese Snack Foods You'll Love
Whatever your palate desires, you'll find a worthy match in the category of Japanese snack foods. These examples prove that Japan has mastered the flavors and textures of various savory treats. Here's a few of the best Japanese snacks that everyone in your household will love.
Shinagawa Maki Okaki Rice Crackers: Nori Seaweed
Shinagawa Maki Okaki Rice Crackers are a classic snack that has never gone out of style. These senbei feature a rod-like shape and a golden brown color. They feature a delicious, lightly sweet umami flavor due to the soy sauce coating. The nori seaweed wrapping provides an extra bit of crunch to each bite.
Umaibo: Takoyaki Flavor
This delightful snack recreates the delicious taste of takoyaki, a Japanese street food consisting of dough balls stuffed with octopus pieces and other tasty tidbits. The Umaibo: Takoyaki Flavor is a crispy corn snack with a bold taste. It's also considered a dagashi, aka a Japanese snack that is offered at a low price.
Dried Seafood Snacks
Another favorite treat for savory snack lovers is the dried seafood snacks. These treats are available in many options, but typically include a specific type of seafood which has been dried and seasoned (similar to beef jerky). They're the perfect pairing with beer, though they're also delicious on their own or rehydrated in soup. A few varieties include Lawson's Spicy Grilled and Dried Squid Legs and Lawson's Dried Salmon.
Bokksu is not responsible for the accuracy of the products’ nutritional or allergen information. Warning: California’s Proposition 65 may be in effect. For more information,visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. Some Bokksu Market products are produced overseas and may have a Production Date printed on the packaging, rather than a Best Buy Date as is standard in North America. If your product appears expired, do not be alarmed! This is most likely the Production Date. All items have been double checked to ensure they are not expired and safe to eat.
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Mouthwatering Konbini Snacks
These delicious treats deserve their own separate section. A konbini, a Japanese convenience store, is known as the ultimate source of savory delights. From rice balls to chips, bento boxes, sushi, fried chicken, and steamed buns, these convenience stores have it all. Whether a snack is all you seek or a hot meal throughout the day, the conbini is the place to be. They're also equipped with microwaves and hot water machines, so you can enjoy hot beverages, instant noodles, and more during a visit.
Unique Japanese Snacks You've Never Tried
While many begin with traditional Japanese snack offerings, some opt for bold snack choices. These snacks are best for adventurous eaters who enjoy trying new eats and treats. While you may be able to find the below at a local Asian market, it's easiest to find these Japanese snacks online. Here are a few unique Japanese snacks that will surprise your tastebuds.
Kanro Petit Poli Natto Snack
Natto is a polarizing snack in Japan, with some indulging in the treat daily and others avoiding it as much as possible. It consists of fermented soybeans, typically topped with soy sauce or other similar condiments. This natto snack aims to recreate the treat with a chewy texture and similar soy sauce taste. It's crafted from real natto that has been freeze-dried, providing an authentic flavor.
Kit Kat Japan Shizuoka-Kanto Wasabi
Who knew wasabi and chocolate would make a delicious pairing? The Kit Kat Japan Shizuoka-Kanto Wasabi features the spicy root vegetable known as wasabi, sourced from the Shizuoka Kanto region. It's part of a fun line of Japanese Kit Kats, which focuses on local ingredients. Each bite of the exciting Kit Kat features a creamy, rich, sweet taste with an unexpected hit of quick heat.
Popin' Cookin' Fun Sushi Kit
DIY candy kits were initially created as a method for teaching children important life skills, such as patience. Now, they're a fun treat that's equally tasty and interactive. The Popin' Cookin' Fun Sushi Kit is one example of a DIY candy kit. It includes powder that turns into moldable ingredients. Once completed, you can enjoy an array of sushi-shaped candies.
Where to Buy Japanese Snacks Online
Though finding authentic Japanese snacks in person can be challenging, especially in areas which do not offer Asian markets, they're more easily available online. By purchasing Japanese snacks online, you'll find a larger variety of innovative and traditional Japanese snacks. Whether you're purchasing sweet treats, like Japanese Kit Kats, or savory Calbee potato chips, you'll find significant convenience in shopping online.
An excellent source for premium snacks from Japan is Sugoi Mart, which features an extensive Snack Collection. At Sugoi Mart, convenience and delicious Japanese snacks go hand in hand. With a wide variety ranging from sweet to savory, Sugoi Mart is the perfect option for purchasing the best Japanese snacks. Once the desired items are selected from the shop and check out is completed, you'll find a fun mixture of Japanese snacks delivered right to your door!
Sugoi Mart's Top Picks for Japanese Snacks
A wide range of Japanese snacks means it can be intimidating to narrow down which to try first. The below treats are top-sellers on Sugoi Mart, so they're a must-try for snack afficionados.
Pocky: Heartfelt Blueberry
This limited-edition Pocky flavor was inspired by Valentine's Day. The Heartfelt Blueberry Pocky features a delightful chocolate blueberry taste and pink heart-shaped biscuits. Only limited quantities are available, so it's best to try this popular snack while you can.
Pringles Japan Grilled Burger
These crispy Pringles feature a unique flavor - Japan Grilled Burger! Each chip includes a savory, meaty taste that is reminiscent of a burger straight from the grill. These chips also include a light cheese flavor, for a more authentic burger taste.
Chocolate Taiyaki
Taiyaki is another of the best Japanese snacks. It's a traditional treat that's shaped like a fish. It typically includes a crispy wafer outside and a creamy, sweet filling. In this case, it's a Chocolate Taiyaki. Enjoy a crunchy exterior and rich chocolate center with each bite.
Conclusion
With a bevy of Japanese snacks available on the shelves, it's no wonder Japan is considered a snack mecca. From sweet to savory, Japan truly has some of the best snack offerings in the world. With regional and seasonal ingredients and flavors incorporated into various treats, Japan has mastered the art of snacking.
Explore Japanese culture and Japanese popular snacks more fully with a visit to Sugoi Mart's Snack Collection. This extensive selection includes flavors that appeal to any snacker, with a mixture of traditional and modern snack offerings. Try even more exciting Japanese flavors with Sugoi Mart's Drink Collection and Sugoi Mart's Food Collection.
Find more Japanese snacks with a monthly Japan Crate subscription. This monthly delivery includes a curated selection of high-quality sweet and savory snacks. Explore seasonal and limited edition treats in every box with 15-17 full-sized items.
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