Takoyaki originates from the rough-around-the-edges city of Osaka, an ancient port town that spent periods as the official capital and served as a hub for industrialization and even organized crime.

When enjoying Japanese cuisine one of the things that will catch your eye is how well presented food is set before you. The tray becomes a garden, curated by a master who carefully placed food on tastefully chosen ceramic pieces of different colors, shapes and sizes.

In Japan, people of all ages, including children and the elderly, commonly drink hojicha, a roasted green tea. This healthy and aromatic beverage has a distinct, deep, earthy taste and an exciting history that makes it truly special.

Kit Kats, Pocky, umaibo—many of Japan’s most popular snacks might give the more health-conscious among us pause. But despite the country’s well established enthusiasm for colorful, super-salty, and sugary treats, there are just as many healthy Japanese snacks as there are indulgent ones.

When you think of Japan and wagashi, the first images that spring to mind are mochi and all things anko. But there is a wagashi staple that can be confusing for most—Nagasaki’s Castella. It looks like your typical sponge cake, simple but delectable. It is great with black tea or coffee for a sweet snack at home. So how did Castella become a Japanese cake?

Waffles are a sweet treat that anyone is sure to love, and in Japan, there are actually plenty of Japanese people who are fans of waffles too!

Warm, hearty, and full of rich history, senbei jiru is an incredible dish from the northern port city of Hachinohe.

Japanese candy art has been making a renaissance: the traditional craft of amezaiku.

Let’s explore the world of anpan, a unique Japanese wagashi that combines soft bread with sweet fillings. It’s red bean paste blending perfectly with freshly baked dough.

What comes to your mind when you hear the words, “milk tea”?

Melonpan consists of a thin cookie dough covering that generously sprinkles sugar on sweet bread. Plus, melonpan is available in local bakeries, konbini, specialty shops, and street vendors throughout Japan.

Custard has been popular in Japan since the Meiji era, when it became a classic component in Japanese yogashi, or Western-style sweets.