Looking for the best Japanese candy? Check out the list of top Japanese candies and snacks that are worth devouring. Read further to find out more about it.
I have very fond memories of candies. Growing up, I remember trying out so many different varieties of candies. Today, when I eat the best Japanese candies, I am transported back to those summer days when I would sit snacking on those candies.
Best Japanese Candy: Quick Summary
| Best Japanese Candy | Type | Flavor |
| Pocky Chocolate | Biscuit sticks | Chocolate |
| Apollo | Candy | Strawberry |
| Caplico | Wafer Cones | Vanilla, Strawberry |
| Meiji Chocolat | Chocolate Bar | Chocolate |
| Morinaga Chocolate | Soft Candy | Caramel |
| Meiji Macadamia | Chocolate | Macadamia |
| Black Thunder | Bar | Chocolate |
| Otoko Ume Candy | Candy | Plum |
| Kasugai Soda Flavor Tsubu Gumi Jelly Beans | Gummies | Assorted |
| Kanro Pure | Gummies | Grape |
Japanese candies are extremely popular across the nation and also all over the world. These candies help satisfy your cravings while also giving your taste buds a wonderful ride.
Which is the best Japanese candy?
- Pocky Chocolate
- Apollo
- Caplico
- Meiji Chocolate
- Morinaga Milk Caramel
- Meiji Macadamia
- Black Thunder
- Otoke Ume Candy
- Kasugai Soda Flavour Gummies
- Kanro Pure
The sheer amount of Japanese candies that you can choose from is extremely vast, so today, I am only introducing you to some of the most popular Japanese Candies that have been my absolute favorite since my childhood days.
I have tried to put together an assortment of gummies, chocolates and candies, and a few others. If you are ready to go on a sweet and sugary journey, continue reading. I recommend that you try the best Japanese candy as soon as possible.
Best Japanese Candy
Grape Soft Chewy Taffy Candy with Grape Gummy - Puccho
Puccho candies come in a 10 piece stick pack, as pictured above. There are usually 5-10 different flavors available to purchase at any one time. I loved the taste.
They actually consist of delicious flavors. These won't get stuck between your teeth like you would with starburst, and the grape chunks inside are sort of yummy. There is no other way to describe what this tastes like.
Grape is the best flavor available compared to the rest of the flavors. You could also go for fruity strawberry or pineapple.
Ghana Chocolate
The Lotte chocolates are known as candy from the fast food lotteria and chocolate pies. They come in bright red packaging with a bright red logo, "Ghana." This chocolate is also just the right amount of sweet, so it is a good choice for milk chocolate lovers.
There are two ways to consume this chocolate plate: either as is, or you can melt it and add it to sweets. It is a Signature milk chocolate bar by lotte. This one is sweeter compared with Japanese branded chocolate. It tastes a bit less sweet, and is a bit mild. If it was a bit cheaper and easier to find, I'd buy more of it.
Pocky Chocolate Candy
Umeboshi
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We've all heard of this Classic Japanese Candy called Pocky. It is one of the most famous and the best Japanese candy in Japan.
This childhood classic has grown in popularity around the globe. The long and fragrant sticks covered in chocolate are probably the most comforting candies that you can try.
I love the texture of this candy and once I start, I cannot stop eating. There are so many different flavors that you can get including Litchi, Matcha, and banana. However, no matter how many flavors are released, nothing beats the Classic chocolate for me.
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Apollo Candy
I absolutely love these bitesize candies that come in a Tetra-shaped package. Because of its size, it is just so easy to eat and also finish.
Apollo is standard chocolate that is loved by people of all ages. This Candy strikes a perfect balance between strawberry, chocolate, and milk chocolate. The flavor is exquisite and delicious, and it will leave you wanting more of it.
If you are craving something sweet, I strongly recommend that you go for Apollo as its the best Japanese candy on Amazon in chocolate flavour.
Caplico Candy
I love any kind of candy that comes in a cone, just like the delicious Caplico. It has a very fluffy texture and there is so much chocolate in the cone that you will be completely satisfied.
There are different assorted flavors available so there is absolutely no chance of getting bored. Caplico is one size smaller than the standard size. I would recommend that you do not finish it off in one go; instead, eat a little every day or share it with the people you love.
Apart from its delicious taste and texture, I also love Caplico because of the nutrients it contains, including calcium and magnesium. Because of this, it is perfect for little kids.
Related: Types of Japanese Rice
Meiji Chocolate Candy
While I keep trying a number of different candies, nothing beats the classic pure chocolate. When it comes to eating chocolates, I always prefer Meiji chocolate because of its rich flavor. This chocolate does not contain vegetable oil; it is simple and yet so delicious.
The chocolate by Meiji can be eaten just like it, or you can use it to make sweets or for your cakes. Meiji is amongst the best Japanese candy brands.
Morinaga Milk Caramel Candy
After Meiji, if there is one chocolate I cannot say no to it is the Classic Morinaga Milk Caramel. This candy brings to the forefront the exquisite flavor of milk, but it is not too overwhelming. I love these candies even though I am not a huge fan of milk.
The texture is soft and yet quite firm. It just melts in the mouth and I most often chew my way through it. The packaging is also very convenient. It’s one of the best Japanese candy boxes that I’ve ever tried personally.
You get 12 cubes of caramel candies in each box; these candies are also individually wrapped. If you love caramel, these candies will be your next favorite.
Meiji Macadamia Candy
Macadamia nuts are extremely popular in Japan and in other parts of Asia. These candies are nothing but macadamia nuts covered in a delicious and rich chocolate coating.
One box contains about 10 pieces, which will be finished before you know it. I love the sweetness provided by the chocolate; this sweetness is immediately followed by the crunchiness of the nuts.
The flavor and texture go so well together that it is beyond exquisite. I almost always finish off an entire box by myself and then find myself reaching out for more. It’s the best Japanese candy.
Black Thunder
My cravings for candies can come in at the most inappropriate times and it is always something different that I crave for. When I am in need of something crispy and crunchy with a lot of chocolate in it, Black Thunder is what I go for.
This chocolate coated cookie bar with rice is absolutely delicious and will be loved by your tastebuds. Along with the delicious taste of this candy, the crunchiness is what really gets you. I got this from a Japanese candy store and found it to be the best Japanese candy.
Black Thunder first entered Japan in 1994 and it became an absolute favorite amongst the mass. This chocolate is so popular that McDonald's Japan used this chocolate to debut their Back Thunder McFlurry in June 2020. Do Try this Japanese candy in chocolate candy.
Otoke Ume Candy
I was a little hesitant to try out these candies because of their pickled plum flavor. It took me a few of these candies to acquire a taste for it.
And after that, I was completely blown over by its deliciousness. It has a slightly sour taste with sweetness to it. It is not soft, so do not eat too many at a time because it can hurt your teeth. It’s the best Japanese candy in sour flavour.
Kasugai Soda Flavor Tsubu Gumi Jelly Beans
The Kasugai Soda Flavor Tsubu Gumi Jelly Beans remind me of all the summers I spent in Japan. These candies introduce you to the classic Japanese beverage. I grew up drinking Ramun, a lemon-lime carbonated drink that is everyone’s favorite summer drink in Japan.
This packet of Jelly beans contains ice blue pop jelly that reminds me of Ramun. There are five different flavors of carbonated drinks available: grape soda, cola, energy drink, white soda, and pop. These are the best Japanese gummies that taste so good and chewy.
The grape soda, cola, and energy drink flavors have a very straightforward flavor, but I love the taste brought out by white soda. It tastes like cider or lemon-lime. This is the best Japanese candy in gummies.
One single package of these jellybeans is enough to last you a long time and also for you to share; however, it is so delicious, it will not last you for long. If you have little ones around you, make sure you have at least a few packages around.
Kanro Pure
The Kanro Pure is the best Japanese candy you will surely love for its flavour. I love these heart-shaped candies because they literally take care of my cravings. These candies are coated in sugar granules.
Every time I open a packet, I always try looking for a lucky star-shaped candy. If you are lucky you might just find one. The exterior of these candies is quite firm, however, the inside is chewy and has a fruit puree center.
The deliciousness of these candies is perfectly in contrast to its texture. Some of the most popular flavors that you can get here include Tangerine, Muscat, and lemon. However, if you ask me, nothing is better than the grape-flavored one. You must try it too.
Konpeita
Konpeita, also known as konpeito, is a traditional Japanese sugar candy that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is characterized by its small, colorful, and crystal-like appearance.
Konpeita is often associated with traditional Japanese culture and is a popular treat during festivals, special occasions, or as a nostalgic snack.
The history of konpeita can be traced back to the 16th century when it was introduced to Japan by Portuguese traders. The candy's name is derived from the Portuguese word "confeito," which means "candy" or "sweetmeat."
Konpeita was initially considered a luxury item and was consumed mainly by the nobility and upper class. However, over time, it became more widely available and accessible to the general population.
Konpeita is made by coating a sugar syrup with layers of colored sugar. The sugar syrup is boiled, and then small droplets are carefully dripped onto a spinning tray or cylinder.
As the droplets cool and solidify, more layers of colored sugar are added, resulting in the candy's distinctive appearance. The process requires precision and skill to create the uniform shape and texture of konpeita.
Traditionally, konpeita came in a limited range of colors such as white, red, green, yellow, and pink. Each color was often associated with a specific flavor, though the candy itself has a predominantly sweet taste.
The flavors commonly used include strawberry, lemon, grape, mint, and occasionally floral flavors like sakura (cherry blossom).
Konpeita is not only appreciated for its taste but also for its aesthetic appeal. The vibrant colors and unique shape make it visually appealing, and it is often used as a decoration or served in decorative containers.
In Japanese culture, it is sometimes used in tea ceremonies, offered as a gift, or used as a topping for desserts and pastries.
While konpeita has a long history in Japan, it has also gained popularity in other parts of the world. It is now available in specialty stores and online markets, allowing people from different countries to enjoy this traditional Japanese candy.
Overall, konpeita is a delightful and iconic Japanese candy known for its distinctive appearance, sweet taste, and cultural significance. It continues to be cherished as a nostalgic treat and a symbol of traditional Japanese confectionery.
Umeboshi Candy
Umeboshi candy is a type of Japanese candy that features the flavor of ume, a sour and tangy fruit known as Japanese plum or apricot. It is a popular treat in Japan, particularly during the summer months when ume fruits are in season.
Umeboshi candies are typically small, round or oval-shaped, and individually wrapped. They come in various colors, ranging from pale yellow to bright green, to mimic the appearance of the ume fruit.
The candies often have a slightly grainy texture and a hard, but not too hard, consistency.
The flavor of umeboshi candies is reminiscent of pickled ume, which is a common way to preserve and consume fruit. Ume plums are salted and aged, resulting in a distinctive sour and salty taste.
Umeboshi candies capture this unique flavor profile, offering a balance between tangy and sweet notes.
Umeboshi candies are enjoyed for their refreshing and palate-cleansing properties. They are often consumed after meals or during hot summer days to provide a cooling sensation.
Additionally, the sourness of the candies is believed to aid digestion and stimulate the appetite.
In Japan, umeboshi candies can be found in various forms, including hard candies, gummies, and chewy candies.
Some candies may also contain a small amount of ume paste or plum extract to enhance the fruit's flavor. The packaging of these candies often features images of ume fruits or traditional Japanese designs, adding to their visual appeal.
Umeboshi candies are widely available in Japan, both in grocery stores and specialty shops that sell traditional Japanese snacks and confectionery. They are also exported to other countries, allowing people around the world to experience the unique taste of ume through these candies.
Overall, Umeboshi candy offers a delightful combination of sour and sweet flavors, capturing the essence of the ume fruit. It is a popular treat in Japan and a favorite among those who enjoy tangy and refreshing candies.
Ramune Soda Candy
Ramune soda candy is a type of Japanese candy that is inspired by the popular Japanese carbonated soft drink called Ramune.
Ramune soda is known for its unique glass bottle and distinct flavors, and the candy aims to replicate that experience in a portable and edible form.
Ramune soda candies are typically small, individually wrapped hard candies that come in a variety of flavors that mimic the different Ramune soda flavors.
Some common flavors include original (lemon-lime), strawberry, melon, grape, and orange. Each candy is shaped like a small, round tablet and has a slightly fizzy or effervescent quality, reminiscent of the carbonation found in Ramune soda.
The candies often come in a cylindrical container that resembles a miniature Ramune soda bottle.
These containers typically have a twist-off cap and a small opening on top, which allows you to dispense the candies one at a time, much like opening a bottle of Ramune soda. This packaging adds a playful and interactive element to the candy experience.
When you place a Ramune soda candy in your mouth, it starts to dissolve, releasing its flavor and effervescence. The candies often have a tangy or slightly sour taste, which is characteristic of Ramune soda.
Some candies may even have a popping candy center, which provides an extra burst of fizziness and excitement.
Ramune soda candy is popular among children and adults alike in Japan and is often enjoyed as a sweet treat or nostalgic snack. It captures the essence of Ramune soda and offers a fun and flavorful way to enjoy its iconic taste.
You can find Ramune soda candies in many Japanese grocery stores, specialty candy shops, or online retailers that offer Japanese snacks and candies.
They are also sometimes included in candy assortment packs or as part of souvenir sets featuring Ramune soda-themed items.
In summary, Ramune soda candy is a Japanese confectionery that replicates the flavors and experience of Ramune soda in a small, hard candy form. It comes in various flavors, has a fizzy texture, and often comes packaged in a container resembling a miniature Ramune soda bottle.
It is a popular and enjoyable treat for fans of Ramune soda and those looking to try unique and fun candies from Japan.
HI-CHEW
HI-CHEW is a popular Japanese chewy candy that has gained international recognition and popularity.
It was first introduced in Japan in 1975 by the Morinaga & Company, a renowned confectionery company. HI-CHEW stands out for its unique texture, intense fruit flavors, and long-lasting taste.
The candy is made using a process that involves blending and kneading ingredients to create a soft and chewy texture. It is often described as being a cross between taffy and chewing gum.
HI-CHEW has a pliable consistency that allows you to enjoy a prolonged chewing experience without it becoming sticky or hard.
One of the key attractions of HI-CHEW is its wide range of flavors. It offers an assortment of fruit flavors, including strawberry, green apple, grape, mango, peach, melon, citrus, and many more. The flavors are often vibrant and true to the taste of the actual fruits they represent.
HI-CHEW candies are typically individually wrapped, making them convenient to carry and share.
HI-CHEW has become popular globally due to its delicious flavors, unique texture, and appealing packaging. It has expanded its reach beyond Japan and is now widely available in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia.
The candy has gained a devoted following and is often sought after by candy enthusiasts and fans of Japanese snacks.
In addition to its standard fruit flavors, HI-CHEW has also released limited-edition flavors and collaborations with other brands, which further adds to its allure and excitement.
The candy's packaging has evolved over time, featuring colorful and eye-catching designs that reflect the playful and fun nature of the product.
The success of HI-CHEW can be attributed to its ability to provide a satisfying and enjoyable chewing experience. Its long-lasting flavor and soft texture make it a popular choice for those who enjoy chewy candies.
HI-CHEW has also expanded its product line to include products like HI-CHEW Sours, HI-CHEW Bites, and HI-CHEW Sticks, offering consumers different formats to enjoy their favorite flavors.
Overall, HI-CHEW is a beloved Japanese candy known for its chewy texture, wide variety of fruit flavors, and long-lasting taste. Whether you're a fan of fruity candies or simply enjoy a satisfying chew, HI-CHEW offers a delightful and flavorful experience that has captivated candy lovers around the world.
Fujiya Milky
Fujiya Milky Candy is a popular Japanese candy that has been around since 1951.
It is made with milk, sugar, and corn syrup, and has a smooth, creamy texture. The flavor is mild and milky, not too sweet, and it melts in your mouth.
The candies are small and round, about the size of a small marble. They are wrapped in a white paper wrapper with a blue and white design. The wrapper features the cartoon character Peko-chan, who is the mascot of Fujiya.
Fujiya Milky Candy is a delicious and refreshing candy that is perfect for any occasion. It is a popular choice for Japanese snacks and desserts, and it is also a popular souvenir to bring back from Japan.
Meiji Gummies
Meiji Gummies are a Japanese gummy candy that are made with real fruit juice. They come in a variety of flavors, including grape, strawberry, apple, and pineapple.
The gummies are soft and chewy, with a slightly sour taste. They are not too sweet, and they have a refreshing fruity flavor.
The gummies are also a good source of vitamin C. Each serving contains 100 milligrams of vitamin C, which is about 150% of the daily recommended value.
Meiji Gummies are a delicious and healthy snack that is perfect for kids and adults alike. They are a great way to get your daily dose of vitamin C, and they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Mitsuya Cider Candy
Mitsuya Cider Candy is a Japanese candy that is made to taste like the popular Mitsuya Cider soft drink.
The candy is hard and chewy, with a refreshing cider flavor. It also has a slight fizzy feeling, which is reminiscent of the carbonated soft drink.
The candy comes in a variety of flavors, including original, lemon, and melon. The original flavor is the most popular, and it has a tart and sweet flavor that is perfect for a hot day.
The lemon flavor is also delicious, and it has a bright and refreshing taste. The melon flavor is a bit sweeter than the other flavors, and it has a fruity aroma.
Mitsuya Cider Candy is a delicious and refreshing candy that is perfect for a snack or a treat. It is also a great way to enjoy the taste of Mitsuya Cider without having to drink the sugary soft drink.
UHA Mikakuto Shio no Hana Chocolate-filled Salt Caramel Candy
UHA Mikakuto Shio no Hana Chocolate-filled Salt Caramel Candy is a Japanese candy that is made with a combination of caramel and chocolate.
The caramel is made with milk and sugar, and it is seasoned with salt and shio-koji (salted rice malt). The chocolate is made with cocoa beans, and it has a rich and creamy flavor.
The candy is shaped like a flower, and it has a hard outer shell and a soft, chewy center. The caramel is the first flavor that you taste, and it is followed by the chocolate.
The salt and shio-koji give the caramel a unique flavor that is both sweet and savory. The chocolate is rich and creamy, and it helps to balance out the sweetness of the caramel.
UHA Mikakuto Shio no Hana Chocolate-filled Salt Caramel Candy is a delicious and unique candy that is perfect for a snack or a treat.
It is a great way to enjoy the flavors of caramel and chocolate, and it is sure to please fans of both flavors.
Sakura Mochi Sweets
Sakura Mochi Sweets are a traditional Japanese dessert that is made with sweet rice cakes (mochi), red bean paste (anko), and pickled cherry blossom leaves.
The mochi is made with glutinous rice that is pounded until it is soft and sticky.
The anko is made with azuki beans that are mashed and sweetened. The pickled cherry blossom leaves add a subtle floral flavor to the sweets.
Sakura Mochi Sweets are typically eaten during the springtime, when cherry blossoms are in bloom. They are also a popular treat for Hinamatsuri, a Japanese holiday that celebrates girls.
Bontan Ame Pomelo Soft Candy
Bontan Ame Pomelo Soft Candy is a Japanese candy that is made with pomelo, a citrus fruit that is native to Southeast Asia.
The candy is soft and chewy, with a refreshing pomelo flavor. It also has a slight sweetness and tartness, which gives it a well-balanced flavor.
The candy is wrapped in an edible rice paper wrapper, which adds a nice texture to the candy. The rice paper wrapper is also slightly sweet, which helps to enhance the flavor of the candy.
Bontan Ame Pomelo Soft Candy is a delicious and refreshing candy that is perfect for a snack or a treat.
It is also a great way to enjoy the flavor of pomelo, a fruit that is not as common in other parts of the world.
Which is the best Japanese candy?
There are a lot of Japanese candies. However, the best Japanese Candy is Pocky for its flavour, taste and texture.
Pocky is an amazing candy that is sweet and comes in a variety of flavours like chocolate, matcha, litchi, strawberry etc. It was first sold in 1996 and was invented by Yoshiaki Koma. It’s biscuit sticks coated with flavours. It’s a perfect balance of flavours.
Why is Japanese candy so good
Japan has the highest per-capita candy consumption in the world. Japanese candy is delicious, varied, and cheap! Imported Japanese candy is huge in the USA, and its popularity continues to grow around the world. Its popularity is due to its consistently excellent quality and variety. In contrast, the USA has fewer varieties of candy because the market is dominated by the largest candy companies. In 2010, Japan produced more than 10,000 different types of candy, compared to about 1000 in the USA.
Sweet Tooth- Best Japanese Candy
These were some of my favorite and the best Japanese candy that I always turn to when I am craving something sweet and sugary. However, these are not the only Japanese Candies available out there.
If you enter any convenience store in Japan, you will be welcomed with over a hundred different types of Japanese candies.
These are just some of the most nostalgic ones. So if you come across other varieties, do not stop yourself from trying them out. Try out all of these candies and let me know what you think about them.
