As the year draws to a close and vibrant autumn landscapes fade into serene white snowfalls, we reminisce about the many beautiful places we have journeyed in Japan. This month, we’ve included a Japanese snack that captures the different flavors of Japan’s many prefectures.
Discover which prefecture your hand-picked snack is from—with a detailed description and allergy information—below.
Momiji Cookie
By Seki Confectionery (Kyoto)
Common Allergens: Egg, Dairy, Wheat
May Contain Traces Of: Buckwheat, Peanuts
Vegetarian Friendly: Yes
Momiji, or Japanese maple leaves, are a staple in Japan’s autumn scenery. Expertly baked by skilled craftsmen, these cookies boast a light and palatable flavor, complemented by a crisp texture. Pairs wonderfully with tea.
Uji Koicha Bouchée
By Takumi Uji Ayana (Kyoto)
Common Allergens: Egg, Dairy, Wheat, Soy
May Contain Traces Of: Peanuts
Vegetarian Friendly: Yes
Delight in the exquisite Uji matcha cream nestled between layers of airy cakes. Crafted from premium, stone-ground matcha sourced from an esteemed tea garden in Uji-Tawara, Kyoto—each bite is a moment of pure indulgence offering an authentic taste of Japan’s finest matcha.
Adzuki Pear Jelly
By Yukio (Kyoto)
Common Allergens: Dairy, Soy
May Contain Traces Of: Egg, Wheat, Orange, Kiwi, Peach, Apple, Banana, Walnuts, Japanese Sweet Potato, Gelatin, Sesame, Cashews, Almond
Vegetarian Friendly: Yes
Enjoy the refreshing sweetness of this pear-infused jelly, encapsulating Dainagon adzuki beans from Kyoto. Decorated with charming maple and ginkgo leaf motifs, this autumn treat is a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors.
Nikki Yatsuhashi
By Higashiyama Yatsuhashi Honpo (Kyoto)
Common Allergens: Soy
May Contain Traces Of: Sesame
Vegetarian Friendly: Yes
Yatsuhashi, a cherished Kyoto delicacy, has been beloved for generations. Its popularity stems from the delightful blend of a crisp texture and graceful cinnamon flavor. Baked in the likeness of a Japanese harp, or koto, each piece echoes a timeless culinary art.
Heart Wasanbon Senbei
By Watanabe Confectionery (Kyoto)
Common Allergens: N/A
May Contain Traces Of: Egg, Dairy, Wheat, Shrimp, Crab, Apple, Gelatin, Soy, Pork, Chicken, Sesame
Vegetarian Friendly: Yes
Crafted with care and meticulously baked to perfection, artisans transform Uruchi rice into these charming heart-shaped senbei. Coated with the gentle sweetness of a wasanbon—Japanese sugar—for an effortlessly enjoyable treat.
Peanut Arare
By Naniwaya Confectionery (Niigata)
Common Allergens: Peanuts, Wheat, Soy
May Contain Traces Of: Egg, Dairy
Vegetarian Friendly: Yes
Experience the irresistible crunch of these savory arare. Each bite unveils a delightful nutty essence from peanuts kneaded into the dough. These crispy and light treats are perfectly finished with a simple yet satisfying salt flavor.
Full Moon Soft Chew
By Midori Confectionery (Osaka)
Common Allergens: Egg
May Contain Traces Of: Wheat, Dairy
Vegetarian Friendly: Yes
Indulge in the pleasant sweetness of this soft chew that enchants both the palate and the eyes as you let your imagination wander under the moonlit sky. Each piece is beautifully designed with a charming rabbit gazing up at the full moon.
Black Okoshi
By Nissindo Confectionery (Nara)
Common Allergens: Peanuts, Wheat, Sesame
May Contain Traces Of: N/A
Vegetarian Friendly: Yes
Crafted by esteemed artisans in Nara, this treat is a testament to meticulous ingredient selection and masterful culinary techniques. Carefully chosen peanuts, karinto, and roasted black sesame seeds are lovingly coated with Okinawan brown sugar—infusing it with a decadently rich and distinctive sweetness.
Peach Jelly
By Igar (Kyoto)
Common Allergens: Peach
May Contain Traces Of: Dairy, Egg, Wheat
Vegetarian Friendly: Yes
This delectable two-layer jelly, infused with the sweetness of peach juice, encapsulates a charming tsukimi design. Best enjoyed chilled, it offers a delightful burst of flavor that will transport you to a world of fruity bliss.
Hinerinpon
By Taihei Confectionery (Aichi)
Common Allergens: Wheat
May Contain Traces Of: Dairy, Shrimp, Crab, Sesame, Soy, Chicken, Pork
Vegetarian Friendly: Yes
Delicately twisted and fried to perfection, this savory arare is seasoned with a touch of salt and a balanced blend of spices. Each piece boasts a delightful crispness that’s both airy and satisfying.