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No matter where you travel in the country, you'll discover a wide variety of sweets, snacks, and other confections to enjoy or share with your loved ones! Every corner of Japan has a sweet indulgence to die for, and many of them have a delightful backstory.
Whether you want traditional sweets to go with tea or futuristic creations that display the newest trends, Japan offers something for every taste and occasion. From cakes to cookies, pies to pastries, and rice to bananas, this guide is your perfect companion for indulging in Japan's sweetest delights.
Mochi is a chewy rice cake made from glutinous rice that is pounded into a paste and shaped into various forms. This versatile rice cake can be savoured in its simplest form or with a variety of fillings like sweet red bean paste, assorted fruits, nuts, or even ice cream. Mochi is often served during festivals and special occasions, such as the Japanese New Year.
One of the most popular types of mochi is daifuku, which is a round mochi stuffed with anko (red bean paste). Another popular type is dango, which is a skewer of three or four mochi balls coated with different sauces, such as soy sauce, green tea, or sweet soy syrup. Whether enjoyed as a festive treat or a daily indulgence, mochi continues to be a cherished delicacy in Japan.
Anmitsu is a refreshing summer dessert that consists of cubes of agar-agar jelly, sweet red bean paste, mochi, fruits, and brown sugar syrup. Agar-agar is a vegetarian gelatin made from seaweed that has a firmer texture than animal gelatin. Anmitsu is usually served cold in a bowl and can be customised with different toppings, such as ice cream, whipped cream, or chestnuts. Anmitsu's popularity as a summertime treat is not just due to its delicious taste but also because it's a refreshing way to stay hydrated during the hot months.
Matcha is a finely milled powder of green tea leaves that has a distinctive bitter and earthy flavour. Matcha is used in many Japanese desserts, such as cakes, cookies, puddings, and candies. Among its many culinary applications, matcha ice cream is a fan favourite, masterfully blending the tea's natural bitterness with the sweet, creamy richness of ice cream. Matcha ice cream can be found in many shops and restaurants in Japan and is often served in a cone, a cup, or a taiyaki (a fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste or custard).
Distinct from its Western counterpart, Japanese cheesecake offers a delightfully light and airy alternative to the typically dense and rich cheesecakes. Crafted from a blend of cream cheese, eggs, and flour, this delectable cake is baked in a water bath, resulting in a uniquely moist and fluffy texture.
Japanese cheesecake is also known as soufflé cheesecake or cotton cheesecake and is usually flavoured with lemon, vanilla, or chocolate. Japanese cheesecake is best enjoyed when it is slightly warm and jiggly and can be topped with whipped cream, fresh fruits, or powdered sugar.
Dorayaki is a sweet sandwich that is made of two round pancakes filled with anko (red bean paste). Dorayaki is one of the oldest and most beloved of Japanese desserts and is said to have originated in the 16th century. Gaining additional fame as the favoured snack of Doraemon, the beloved animated character, Dorayaki holds a special place in popular culture.
Ubiquitous in Japanese bakeries and convenience stores, Dorayaki's traditional red bean filling is often creatively substituted with other ingredients such as creamy custard, rich chocolate, or smooth cheese, catering to a variety of taste preferences. Dorayaki is a simple but satisfying dessert that is perfect for any time of the day.
