Top 11 Japanese Snacks Brands in 2025

But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to choose which snacks to try. That's why we've put together this Japanese snacks buying guide to help you navigate the world of Japanese snacking. Types of Japanese Snacks There are a few different types of Japanese snacks to be aware of. These include: Senbei - Senbei are a type of Japanese rice cracker that are typically baked or grilled. They come in a variety of flavors, from savory to sweet, and are often seasoned with soy sauce or other traditional Japanese flavors. Mochi - Mochi is a type of sticky rice cake that is often filled with sweet or savory fillings. It has a soft, chewy texture that makes it a unique and enjoyable snack. Pocky - Pocky is a popular snack in Japan that consists of thin, biscuit sticks dipped in chocolate or other flavored coatings. Kit Kats - While the Kit Kats we're used to in the West are usually just milk chocolate or dark chocolate, Japan loves to experiment with different flavors. Some popular Japanese Kit Kat flavors include green tea, strawberry, and even soy sauce. Dagashi - Dagashi is a term used to describe cheap, fun snacks that are popular with kids in Japan. These snacks are often packaged in colorful, cartoonish bags and can include items like gummies, chips, and candy. Tips for Buying Japanese Snacks Now that you know the different types of Japanese snacks, here are some tips to keep in mind when making your purchases: Look for Unique Flavors - One of the biggest draws of Japanese snacks is the unique flavors that you won't find anywhere else. Don't be afraid to try flavors like wasabi or teriyaki that you might not normally associate with snack foods. Pay Attention to Packaging - Japanese snack packaging is often colorful and eye-catching, so it's a good idea to look for snacks that catch your eye. Also, many Japanese snacks come in small, individual packages that make them easy to eat on the go. Shop at Specialty Stores - While you can find Japanese snacks at many grocery stores and online retailers, you'll often find a wider variety and more authentic options at specialty Japanese markets. Don't Forget About Seasonal Snacks - Japan is known for its seasonal snacks that are only available for a limited time. Keep an eye out for these limited edition offerings when they come around. Popular Japanese Snacks to Try Now that you know what to look for when buying Japanese snacks, let's take a closer look at some of the most popular options. Pocky Pocky is one of the most popular snacks in Japan, and for good reason. These thin, biscuit sticks are dipped in a variety of flavors, including chocolate, strawberry, matcha (green tea), and more. Pocky also comes in special edition flavors that are only available for a limited time. Mochi Mochi is a unique and delicious Japanese snack that's made from glutinous rice that's been pounded into a sticky, chewy texture. Mochi is often filled with sweet or savory fillings, such as red bean paste or peanut butter. It's a great snack for those who enjoy chewy textures. Hello Panda Hello Panda are bite-sized biscuits that come in a variety of flavors and are filled with a creamy, chocolate or vanilla filling. The biscuits are shaped like pandas and come in a variety of packaging sizes, making them easy to share with friends. Umai Bo Umai Bo are puffed corn snacks that come in a variety of flavors, including salt, cheese, and barbecue. They're crunchy and flavorful, and are a great option for those who prefer savory snacks. Dorayaki Dorayaki is a traditional Japanese snack that consists of two small pancakes filled with sweet red bean paste. It's a simple yet delicious snack that's perfect if you're looking for something sweet. Green Tea Kit Kats Green tea Kit Kats are a popular snack in Japan that have gained a cult following around the world. These Kit Kats are made with high-quality matcha powder and have a subtle green tea flavor that pairs perfectly with the smooth white chocolate coating. Final Thoughts Japanese snacks offer a world of unique flavors and textures that are sure to delight anyone looking for a tasty snack. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, there's something for everyone in Japan's snack offerings. With this Japanese snacks buying guide, you'll be able to confidently navigate the wide variety of options and find the perfect snacks for your taste buds. Onigiri - Onigiri are small, triangular-shaped rice balls that are often filled with various ingredients like salmon, tuna, or pickled plum. They're a great snack option for those who want something filling and savory. Taiyaki - Taiyaki is a fish-shaped cake that's filled with sweet red bean paste or custard. It's a popular street food in Japan and is commonly found at festivals and markets. Wagashi - Wagashi is a term used to describe traditional Japanese sweets that are often made with mochi or sweet bean paste. There are many different types of wagashi to try, including yokan (a type of jelly), dango (small sticky rice dumplings), and manju (a sweet pastry filled with sweet bean paste). Calbee - Calbee is a popular Japanese snack brand that offers a wide variety of potato chips and other snacks. Some of their popular flavors include seaweed, soy sauce, and consomme. Ramune - Ramune is a carbonated soft drink that's popular in Japan. The drink is known for its unique glass bottle which has a marble inside that seals the bottle. To open the drink, you have to push the marble into the bottle using a small plastic device that comes with the drink. Matcha-flavored Snacks - Matcha is a type of powdered green tea that's often used in Japanese cuisine. It has a distinct, slightly bitter flavor that pairs well with sweet snacks like biscuits or chocolates. Some popular matcha-flavored snacks include matcha Kit Kats and matcha mochi. When trying out Japanese snacks for the first time, it's important to keep an open mind and be adventurous. You never know what unique flavor combinations might end up becoming your new favorite snack. And with so many options to choose from, there's always something new to discover in the world of Japanese snacking.