Sakuraco Japanese Snack Box: July 2023 — Heritage of Nikko

My July Sakuraco box arrived a couple of weeks ago, and this is the very last box in my subscription.

For those who don't know, Sakuraco is a monthly premium Japanese snack box subscription program. I decided to do six months to start and accidentally subscribed for another six months, which ended up being approximately $65 CAD per box after shipping costs. (I want to note that they sometimes use DHL to ship. Out of the 12 boxes I've received so far, I only got charged for duties on one box, but I want to be transparent about additional fees.) It is not a cheap subscription, but the snacks have proved to be quite unique. Each box includes 20 items — including a tea, traditional sweets, seasonal treats, baked goods, and one home item — all centred around one specific Japanese region or theme. All monthly boxes are available from the 15th of every month to the 15th of the next month. 

Sakuraco July 2023 "Heritage of Nikko" Japanese Snack Box
July's theme is "Heritage of Nikko," which features the city of Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. For this box, Sakuraco wrote, "Nestled in majestic mountains, Nikko embodies the essence of the revered Edo period. The region is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Toshogu Shine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the most powerful man in Edo period history... Experience the captivating allure of Nikko's rich heritage and indulge in these sweet and savoury offerings that honour its history." 

Sakuraco July 2023 "Heritage of Nikko" Greeting Postcard — Sacred Bridge by Hasegawa Chikuyo
Sakuraco July 2023 "Heritage of Nikko" Snack Guide
Sakuraco July 2023 "Heritage of Nikko" Snack Guide — Introduction
Sakuraco July 2023 "Heritage of Nikko" Snack Guide — Discover Japan and Maker Highlight
Sakuraco July 2023 "Heritage of Nikko" Snack Guide
This month's box comes with a postcard featuring the artwork, Sacred Bridge, from the series, Twelve Views of Famous Places in Nikko, by Hasegawa Chikuyo.  On the back is a message from the founder of Sakuraco about why she chose to feature this particular theme this month. Every box also contains a "snack guide," which includes an introduction and a brief history of a particular maker, snack, and prefecture, as well as information on the the month's selected tea and snacks. Of course, the guide also showcases every item included in the box, with detailed descriptions and allergy warnings. Included in this month's "Heritage of Nikko" box are the following items:

Clockwise from top left: 88th Night Shincha x 2, Hinohikari Senbei x 2, and Seven Flavour Senbei

• 88th Night Shincha by Hagiri (Shizuoka) — "Translating to 'new tea,' shincha refers to the first harvest of green tea. This tea, meticulously plucked on the 88th day after the first day of spring, holds a profound historical significance. Imbued with the promise of good health and longevity, it has been revered as a lucky elixir since ancient times."
• Hinohikari Senbei by Ishidaya (Nikko) — "Ishidaya's time-honoured dough recipe for this crunchy senbei has been passed down for generations. Shaped like the sun, the soy sauce-based sauce embodies simplicity and depth."
• Seven Flavour Senbei by Ishidaya (Nikko) — "Delight in the colourful shapes of Seven Flavour Senbei, a stunning array of bite-sized rice crackers with seven distinct flavours. From the smoothness of salted butter to the whimsy of colourful sugar and shrimp senbei, each piece offers a unique taste and texture."

Clockwise from top left: Waka Ayu Marshmallow, Chigiri Kusamochi x 2, and Kuzukiri

• Waka Ayu Marshmallow by Yachiyodo (Osaka) — "In Japan, the ayu, or sweetfish, holds a special place as a symbol of summertime. This sweet, shaped like the iconic ayu, is not only a treat but a symbol of the season and its cultural traditions."
• Chigiri Kusamochi by Seiki (Ehime) — "Kusamochi, a Japanese sweet with roots tracing back to ancient Japan, is a traditional treat that captures the essence of yomogi, Japanese mugwort. These bite-sized mochi pieces unveil a harmony of flavours, as their velvety coating of black sesame kinako imparts a deep and aromatic taste."
• Kuzukiri by Nakaki Foods (Aichi) — "Kuzukiri is a summer delicacy known for its smooth, chewy texture. This version is adorned with rich black honey and can be enjoyed on its own or elevated with seasonal fruits. Indulge in its refreshing allure, a perfect treat for warm days."

Clockwise from top left: Skyberry Waffle Cookie x 2, Sesame Anko Donuts, Nikko Rusk, and Sesame Tetra x 2

• Skyberry Waffle Cookie by Nagatoya (Tochigi) — "Skyberry strawberries from Tochigi are known across Japan for their exceptional quality and exquisite flavour. The strawberries impart a delight scent and essence when used in this crispy cookie, adding a touch of fruity bliss to the thin and crispy baked cookie."
• Sesame Anko Donuts by Motohashi Seika (Tochigi) — "Motohashi Seika has crafted anko donuts with their tried and true recipe for over half a century. Here, these fluffy donuts feature sesame-filled sweet bean paste, offering a unique, nutty flavour. Enjoy with milk for a truly delightful experience."
• Nikko Rusk by Nisshodo (Tochigi) — "With its crispy and light texture, this sweet rusk is carefully baked by the makers at Nisshodo with milk from Tochigi. Embodying attention to detail and dedication to experience, it perfectly represents Nikko's cultural heritage and natural beauty."
• Sesame Tetra by Uchiyama Tosaburo Shoten (Niigata) — "Witness Ichiyama Tosaburo's meticulous artistry as a single sesame seed is delicately coated with batter and adorned with an outer layer of sesame seeds. Their satisfying crunch is followed by the rich nuttiness of sesame flavour that lingers on the palate."

Left to right: Thousand Samurai Procession Manju, Soy Sauce Okogemeshi x 2, Salt & Pepper Yuba Crisps, and Patchwork Furoshiki

• Thousand Samurai Procession Manju by Fukado (Tochigi) — "Delve into the velvety embrace of milky white bean paste nestled within a tender dough. Adorned with its namesake on the packaging, this treat is sold as a souvenir gift at Toshogu Shrine."
• Soy Sauce Okogemeshi by Fujiya (Osaka) — "Traditionally, rice was cooked in heavy iron pots called kama or kettles over an open flame. As the rice simmered, the water would evaporate, and the bottom layer of rice would toast and develop a fragrant and crispy texture. This layer, called okoge, turned into a deliciously crunchy treat. This senbei captures the essence of okoge with a flavour profile reminiscent of the special culinary treat."
• Salt & Pepper Yuba Chips by Nikko Foods (Tochigi) — "Yuba is made from the thin film that forms on the surface of heated soy milk. This thin film is carefully harvested and dried, resulting in thin sheets of yuba. Nikko is known for this velvety smooth delicacy. Crafted from 100% domestically grown soybeans, these chips boast a rich flavour mixed with the familiar tastes of salt and pepper."
• Patchwork Furoshiki by Nishio (Osaka) — "Furoshiki, a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth, carries a rich history that dates back centuries. The furoshiki was initially utilized in temples to wrap and transport sacred objects as far back as the Nara period (710-784). This versatile wrapping cloth doubles as a handkerchief, bandana, or bento box wrap."

This month's box includes more savoury snacks, making it the perfect last Sakurco box for me, since I prefer salty snacks over sweets. It also includes a furoshiki as this month's "household item," which they also included in last December's box. I remember being so disappointed when I first got one of these, partially because I don't consider it a household item, but mostly because I wouldn't use such a beautifully designed cloth to wrap anything in. But I've since discovered that it makes a gorgeous bandana and a pretty purse accessory, so I'm not even mad that this isn't really a household item. 

As this is my last Sakuraco box, I waited until I finished most of these snacks to actually make this post so I could pick my favourites: Seven Flavour Senbei (I love the variety of rice crackers here; most senbei are salty, so it was delightful to get some different flavours in the mix), Nikko Rusk (my god, this might be my favourite snack from all the Sakuraco boxes I've gotten — buttery and subtly sweet like a croissant, but in crunchy toast form — and I could easily eat at least 12 in one sitting), Sesame Anko Donuts (I love Japanese donuts because they're not as sweet as their North American counterparts, and these ones are like deep-fried versions of my favourite black sesame tangyuan); and Soy Sauce Okogemeshi (okay, you'd be hard-pressed to find an Asian who doesn't love the crispy bottom layer of rice when it's cooked in a stone pot, and this senbei is based off of that but, like, crunchier with more flavour).

Now, my picks from June's box: Lemon Pie (it's like a Passion Flakie but way crispier and filled with lemon jelly — my favourite item in June's box), Momo Kibidango (peach-flavoured mochi that isn't too sweet and has the perfect chewy texture — I shared this one with my colleagues, and it was a huge crowd-pleaser), Kabosu Nut Sable (sable cookies are one of my Top 5 favourite cookies, and this one has an amazing citrus aroma, like a lemony butter cookie), and Melon Gaufrette (one flavour that I think the Japanese do especially well is honeydew melon, and it's really tasty in these thin wafer cookies — especially refreshing for summer).

I have decided not to re-subscribe to Sakuraco after two consecutive six-month subscriptions. It's been a great experience and I do think that they offer a great variety of interesting Japanese snacks and teas, but at $65 CAD per box after international shipping fees, it's just not worth it for me at this time. (Note that Sakuraco charges their fees in USD, so if you live in the US, it will be more worth it to you as it's $46 USD per box after shipping. But as someone living in Canada, the value diminishes significantly after the currency conversion.) Finally, a reminder to those who have decided to subscribe to Sakuraco: Sakuraco will auto-renew your subscription if you do not cancel before your previous subscription ends. Remember that any amount paid is final and non-refundable. So always double-check when your subscription will end so you don't get surprise charged.

Sakuraco Japanese Snack Box: June 2023 — Mochi & Fruit Marvels

My June Sakuraco box arrived last week!

For those who don't know, Sakuraco is a monthly premium Japanese snack box subscription program. I decided to do six months to start and accidentally subscribed for another six months, which ended up being approximately $65 CAD per box after shipping costs. (I want to note that they do use DHL to ship. Out of the 11 boxes I've received so far, I only got charged for duties on one box, but I want to be transparent about additional fees.) It is not a cheap subscription, but the snacks have proved to be quite unique (and I say this after coming back from Japan). Each box includes 20 items — including a tea, traditional sweets, seasonal treats, baked goods, and one home item — all centred around one specific Japanese region or theme. All monthly boxes are available from the 15th of every month to the 15th of the next month. 

Sakuraco June 2023 "Mochi & Fruit Marvels" Japanese Snack Box
June's theme is "Mochi & Fruit Marvels," which is obviously centred on mochi. For this box, Sakuraco wrote, "Among the many delicacies that define Japanese cuisine, mochi and fruit hold a special place in the hearts and palates of those who indulge in their unique flavours and textures. Mochi, a soft and sticky rice cake, symbolizes good luck and longevity. It delights the senses with its chewy texture and subtle sweetness. Meanwhile, fruit offers a refreshing and colourful complement to the savoury flavours of Japanese cuisine and is renowned for its high quality and freshness. This month, we invite you to celebrate the artistry and flavour of both of these unique Japanese flavours with this specially curated selection of treats and tea." 

Sakuraco June 2023 "Mochi & Fruit Marvels" Greeting Postcard
Sakuraco June 2023 "Mochi & Fruit Marvels" Snack Guide
Sakuraco June 2023 "Mochi & Fruit Marvels" Snack Guide — Introduction
Sakuraco June 2023 "Mochi & Fruit Marvels" Snack Guide — Maker Highlight and Prefecture Spotlight
Sakuraco June 2023 "Mochi & Fruit Marvels" Snack Guide
This month's box comes with a postcard featuring a Japanese painting of a man kneading mochi. On the back is a message from the founder of Sakuraco about why she chose to feature this particular theme this month. Every box also contains a "snack guide," which includes an introduction and a brief history of a particular maker, snack, and prefecture, as well as information on the the month's selected tea and snacks. Of course, the guide also showcases every item included in the box, with detailed descriptions and allergy warnings. Included in my "Mochi & Fruit Marvels" box are the following items:

Clockwise from top left: Shine Muscat Jelly x 2, Lemon Pie, Genmaicha with Green Tea x 2, and Ichigo Mochi Manju

• Shine Muscat Jelly by Kuniwa Sangyo (Okayama) — "This treat is crafted from the finest Okayama-grown Shine Muscat grape, certified as 'The Fruit of Okayama' by Japan's Chamber of Commerce. The makers at Kuniwa Sangyo have infused this jelly with liqueur from the famous fruit to give it its sweet taste and heavenly fragrance."
• Lemon Pie by Shoeido (Hyogo) — "Handcrafted with Hokkaido wheat and infused with tangy lemon pulp, this fresh and fragrant pie is a masterpiece of flavour and texture. Let the zesty aroma transport you to sunny groves with every bite."
• Genmaicha with Green Tea by Brooks (Kanagawa) — "Savour the delicate flavour and subtle sweetness of genmaichawith green tea. With its gentle notes of roasted rice and matcha, this tea offers a savoury and clean taste that lingers on the palate."
• Ichigo Mochi Manju by Nakamuraya (Saitama) — "Enclosed under the surface of this delectable manju sits a soft, pillowy mochi. Tucked away in the mochi's centre, you'll find a strawberry red bean paste infused with the juice of Japanese strawberries. It is the perfect bite."

Clockwise from top left: Momo Kibidango, Lemon Vinegar Arare x 2, Kabosu Nut Sable, and Melon Gaufrette x 2

• Momo Kibidango by Seiki (Ehime) — "This delectable Japanese treat combines the irresistible sweetness of Ehime white peaches with the soft, chewy texture of kibidango. Kibidango is a traditional Japanese confectionery made with millet flour and sugar, and is often associated with the legend of Momotaro (Peach Boy), an admired hero in Japanese folklore."
• Lemon Vinegar Arare by Morihaku Confectionery (Gifu) — "This refreshing Lemon Vinegar Arare is crafted with 100% domestic glutinous rice. Infused with the refreshing, tangy aroma of Setouchi lemons and the zesty sourness of vinegar, this traditional Japanese snack delivers a delightful combination of flavours and textures that will tantalize your taste buds."
• Kabosu Nut Sable by Dontoyaki Honpo (Oita) — "Kabosu is a citrus fruit native to Japan and primarily grown in Oita. It has a tart and refreshing flavour, similar to a mix of lemon and lime. This rich, nutty Kabosu Nut Sable is baked perfectly with roasted almond chips and a special ingredient — powdered kabosu from Taketa, Oita Prefecture."
• Melon Gaufrette by Itokawaya (Mie) — "These crispy, thin gaufrette wafers are carefully filled with a luscious melon cream, delivering a gentle burst of sweet and refreshing flavour."

Left to right: Chrysanthemum Dish, Honey Apple Mochi, and Hana Moyou

• Chrysanthemum Dish by Bloom (Gifu) — "Experience the refined elegance of traditional Japanese artistry with this beautiful dish, featuring a delicate design of chrysanthemums and arabesque patterns. Mino ware pottery is renowned for its warmth and meticulous attention to detail since the 7th century; this piece is no exception."
• Honey Apple Mochi by Tengudo Takarabune (Hokkaido) — "Enjoy the sweetness of honey and the fruity goodness of apples with every bite of this delectable mochi. Made using apple powder sourced from Nanae-machi in Hokkaido, the birthplace of Western apple cultivation, it offers a unique and flavourful experience. This treat is also wrapped in an edible oblate wrapper, ensuring your hands stay clean while you enjoy it."
• Hana Moyou by Sakura Confectionery (Niigata) — "This sachet of diverse flavours contains seven distinct rice crackers, each leaving a lasting impressing on the palate. Featuring a well-balanced mix of savoury and sweet tastes, it's the perfect snack for any occasion."

Clockwise from top left: Wasabi Kabocha Seeds x 2, Ajiko Mochi Crackers x 2, and Setouchi Lemon Squid Tempura

• Wasabi Kabocha Seeds by Uchiyama Tosaburo Shoten (Niigata) — "A delightful treat, this biteful features a crunchy kabocha, or Japanese pumpkin, seed core enveloped in a zesty wasabi coating that is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its aromatic heat."
• Ajiko Mochi Crackers by Realize Planning (Gifu) — "In Japanese cuisine, 'mochi' refers to a soft, chewy rice cake made from glutinous rice. However, in the context of these crackers, the slightly chewy texture lays underneath its crispy, crunchy surface. This snack features two unique tastes: a savoury soy sauce, and a refreshing salad flavour."
• Setouchi Lemon Squid Tempura by Maruka Foods (Hiroshima) — "Setouchi, located in the Seto Inland Sea area, is a region known for its mild climate, clean water, and fertile soil, which makes it an ideal place for growing citrus fruits like lemons. This treat has a refreshing acidity and flavour from Setouchi lemons that perfectly complements the squid tempura, resulting in a delicious and fresh culinary experience."

I'm particularly excited for this month's box partially because I like mochi, but mostly because I think the Japanese incorporate fruit exceptionally well into their snacks. I also love the combination of both mochi and fruit with the clean, delicate flavours of green teas, so I'm also glad to see that this month's tea is a genmaicha (roasted rice tea) with sencha (green tea). The chrysanthemum dish, which is this month's home item, is really pretty as well (and it's both microwave- and dishwasher-safe), and far more useful than last month's tea glass that can't be used for hot beverages. 

Now, my picks from May's box: Genji Pie (basically the Japanese version of French palmier cookies — flaky, crunchy, and subtly sweet) and Ichigo Roll (a soft, not-too-sweet sponge cake with a thin layer of strawberry cream — pairs particularly well with green tea). Unfortunately, the rest of the items in last month's box weren't particularly noteworthy or just weren't good. (To be fair, I'm not a fan of sakura-flavoured food in general, and last month's theme was all about sakura.)

Finally, a reminder to those who have decided to subscribe to Sakuraco: Sakuraco will auto-renew your subscription if you do not cancel before your previous subscription ends. Remember that any amount paid is final and non-refundable. So always double-check when your subscription will end so you don't get surprise charged.

Sakuraco Japanese Snack Box: May 2023 — Moonlit Sakura

My May Sakuraco box has arrived!

For those who don't know, Sakuraco is a monthly premium Japanese snack box subscription program. I decided to do six months to start and accidentally subscribed for another six months, which ended up being approximately $65 CAD per box after shipping costs. (I want to note that they do use DHL to ship. Out of the 10 boxes I've received so far, I only got charged for duties on one box, but I want to be transparent about additional fees.) It is not a cheap subscription, but the snacks have proved to be quite unique (and I say this after coming back from Japan). Each box includes 20 items — including a tea, traditional sweets, seasonal treats, baked goods, and one home item — all centred around one specific Japanese region or theme. All monthly boxes are available from the 15th of every month to the 15th of the next month. 

Sakuraco May 2023 "Moonlit Sakura" Japanese Snack Box
May's theme is "Moonlit Sakura," which, like April's box, celebrates sakura, but more specifically, yozakura, which are cherry blossoms that are lit up at night. For this box, Sakuraco wrote, "Sakura, or cherry blossoms, symbolize renewal, hope, and fleeting beauty. While breathtakingly beautiful during the day, the moonlight dances off the petals at night, taking on a whole new level of enchantment... This sight, which is mesmerized Japan for centuries, has inspired many across Japan to come together after the sun sets to celebrate this natural phenomenon." 

Sakuraco May 2023 "Moonlit Sakura" Greeting Postcard — Cherry Blossoms at Night on Naka-no-chō in the New Yoshiwara by Utagawa Hiroshige
Sakuraco May 2023 "Moonlit Sakura" Snack Guide
Sakuraco May 2023 "Moonlit Sakura" Snack Guide — Introduction
Sakuraco May 2023 "Moonlit Sakura" Snack Guide — Discover Japan and Maker Highlight
Sakuraco May 2023 "Moonlit Sakura" Snack Guide
This month's box comes with a postcard featuring the artwork, Cherry Blossoms at Night on Naka-no-chō in the New Yoshiwara, from the series, Famous Places in the Eastern Capital, by Utagawa Hiroshige. On the back is a message from the founder of Sakuraco about why she chose to feature this particular theme this month. Every box also contains a "snack guide," which includes an introduction and a brief history of a particular maker, snack, and prefecture, as well as information on the the month's selected tea and snacks. Of course, the guide also showcases every item included in the box, with detailed descriptions and allergy warnings. Included in my "Moonlit Sakura" box are the following items:

Clockwise from top left: Sakura Ame, Mini Plum Mochi, and Sakura Cream Gaufrette x 2

• Sakura Ame by Amesho Sawahara (Kyoto) — "Indulge in the delicate essence of Japan's iconic cherry blossom with these pink sakura hard candies. This Sawahara premium candy recipe is specially infused with cherry blossom powder using traditional direct flame cooking. Let each bite transport you to a night of sakura in full bloom."
• Mini Plum Mochi by Fuji Confectionery (Aichi) — "These old-fashioned plum mochi candies have been sold in treat shops in Japan for decades. Slightly sour yet addictive, these tiny pink gems transport many across Japan back to childhood memories of frolicking amongst the blossoms while snacking."
• Sakura Cream Gaufrette by Itokawaya Confectionery (Mie) — "Treat your senses to this gaufrette, a seasonal cream sandwich adorned with a beautiful cherry blossom pattern on its surface. Experience the perfect balance of sweet and floral with each bite of cherry blossom cream inside."

Clockwise from top left: Rich Ogura Bread Loaf, Hana Warabimochi, Tetra Pon x 2, and Genji Pie x 2

• Rich Ogura Bread Loaf by Tokyo Natural Yeast (Saitama) — "Ogura is an azuki bean jam found across Japan. With the aroma of freshly baked bread and the taste of creamy ogura paste, this snack perfectly captures the essence of a blooming spring day."
• Hana Warabimochi by Yukio (Kyoto) — "Warabimochi originated in the Kansai region of Japan during the Edo period and was initially made as a offering to the gods at Shinto shrines. Delight in the exquisite taste and texture of salted cherry blossoms nestled in this bouncy warabimochi, the perfect snack to enjoy under the night sky."
• Tetra Pon by Matsumoto Confectionery (Osaka) — "Adorned with charming cherry blossom packaging, each colourful bite of these Tetra Pon evokes the freshness and beauty of spring."
• Genji Pie by Sanritsu Confectionery (Shizuoka) — "Baked to perfection with a glossy sugar finish, these classic biscuits feature a light crispiness that compliments their deliciously sweet taste. As indicated by the shape, these biscuits are sure to be as heartwarming as the sun shining on a warm spring day."

Clockwise from top left: Sakuraco Tea Glass, Peach Hibiscus Tea x 2, Mame Mochi x 2, and Ume Salt and Vinegar Senbei

• Sakuraco Tea Glass by Ishizuka Glass (Aichi) — "We proudly partner with Ishizuka Glass to bring you this intricately crafted tea glass. Its rounded contours are designed to nestle perfectly in your palm, evoking a sense of serenity with each sip."
• Peach Hibiscus Tea by Maruyama Seicha (Shizuoka) — "We partnered with Maruyama Seicha to craft a tea that captures the beauty and essence of Japan's cherished cherry blossom season. This delicate blend of green tea and hibiscus, infused with the luscious flavour of white peach, creates a stunning pink hue."
• Mame Mochi by Fujiya (Osaka) — "Crafted with the utmost care and precision, this soft and fluffy mochi is accented with a subtle hint of saltiness and features the rich, earthly flavour of black soybeans."
• Ume Salt and Vinegar Senbei by Sanshu Confectionery (Saitama) — "Slow-pickled Nanko plums from the verdant fields of Kishu form the base of the seasoning, lending their rich flavour to a crispy, deep-fried rice cracker. The refreshing sourness of vinegar pairs perfectly with the umami essence of pickled plums, creating a unique and satisfying taste experience."

Clockwise from top left: Sakura Sweet Potato, Sakura Uiro, White Soy Sauce Sakura Arare, and Ichigo Roll

• Sakura Sweet Potato by Nagata Foods (Ibaraki) — "This bite-sized snack captures the subtle flavour of Ibaraki-produced Beniazuma sweet potatoes and combines it with sakura bean paste to create a complex yet delicate taste profile. Infused with the warmth of brandy and the richness of egg yolks, these snacks are baked to perfection."
• Sakura Uiro by Matsuya Foods (Aichi) — "Enjoyed initially by the wealthy  classes in the Edo period, uiro has since evolved into a beloved snack an dessert cherished by people of all backgrounds. This sakura uiro features a delicate cheer blossom flavour that perfectly complements its soft and chewy texture."
• White Soy Sauce Sakura Arare by Sakura Confectionery (Niigata) — "Crafted with 100% Niigata glutinous rice, this exquisite snack features a luscious blend of shrimp kneaded into the dough and white soy sauce. Expertly baked using artisanal techniques, the ultra-thin arare delivers a satisfyingly crisp and delicate crunch that perfectly complements its delightful taste."
• Ichigo Roll by Serii Daikokudo (Osaka) — "Soft and tender sponge dough, tinted in shades of red and white, is expertly crafted into a stunning mosaic pattern. Rolled up with sweet and tangy strawberry cream, each bite of this exquisite confection celebrates the season's joys."

Frankly, the cherry blossoms in Japan are long gone by now — in fact, most of them were gone by the time I was there in early April — so I think Sakuraco is just taking advantage of the fact that sakura-themed snacks are rampant in Japan right now. Still, sakura is so fleeting that I get why so many people in Asia celebrate its blooming — once they're gone, you have to wait a whole year for the next bloom. That having been said, I'm not a huge fan of sakura in food, so I thought we'd be free of that this month, but alas, we have another box of almost exclusively sakura-flavoured snacks. We shall see if any of them are actually any good — or rather, better than their non-sakura-flavoured counterparts. On that note, this month's household item is a tea glass that cannot be microwaved, put in the dishwasher, or be used with hot liquids. So basically, the tea glass is not meant to be used, but rather just looked at. And even then, it's not a particularly nice design, either — it's literally Sakuraco's logo. Colour me disappointed.

Now, my picks from April's box, in which most of the snacks are sakura-flavoured but I did find some gems: Sakura Karinto (I've always loved karinto so they're almost always a win for me, and these didn't taste like sakura as the brown sugar flavour overpowers everything), Sakura Donut Bou (again, I didn't taste any kind of floral flavouring at all in these; they were just like old-fashioned donuts with a hint of honey and, therefore, were delicious), and Sakura Cookies (butter cookies that aren't too sweet and again, no floral taste that I could sense — these were a crowdpleaser at work). Basically, if it doesn't taste like flowers, I'm good to go.

Finally, a reminder to those who have decided to subscribe to Sakuraco: Sakuraco will auto-renew your subscription if you do not cancel before your previous subscription ends. Remember that any amount paid is final and non-refundable. So always double-check when your subscription will end so you don't get surprise charged.

Sakuraco Japanese Snack Box: April 2023 — Arrival of Sakura

So, my April Sakuraco box actually arrived just as I was coming back from Japan.

For those who don't know, Sakuraco is a monthly premium Japanese snack box subscription program. I decided to do six months to start and accidentally subscribed for another six months, which ended up being approximately $65 CAD per box after shipping costs. (I want to note that they do use DHL to ship. Out of the 9 boxes I've received, I only got charged for duties on one box, but I want to be transparent about additional fees.) It is not a cheap subscription, but the snacks have proved to be quite unique (and I say this after coming back from Japan). Each box includes 20 items — including a tea, traditional sweets, seasonal treats, baked goods, and one home item — all centred around one specific Japanese region or theme. All monthly boxes are available from the 15th of every month to the 15th of the next month. 

Sakuraco April 2023 "Arrival of Sakura" Japanese Snack Box
April's theme is "Arrival of Sakura," which celebrates sakura, or cherry blossom, season. For this box, Sakuraco stated, "As the tapestries of pink and white begin to develop across the country, the hearts of many become filled with a sense of fascination and joy. This breathtaking landscape is mostly celebrated with hanami, a tradition of admiring flowers while picnicking under the blooming trees... This month, we want to share the beauty of sakura with you through a selection of hanami-inspired sweet and savoury treats and tea. No matter where you are in the world, the magic of sakura season is waiting to be discovered." 

Sakuraco April 2023 "Arrival of Sakura" Greeting Postcard
Sakuraco April 2023 "Arrival of Sakura" Snack Guide
Sakuraco April 2023 "Arrival of Sakura" Snack Guide — Introduction
Sakuraco April 2023 "Arrival of Sakura" Snack Guide — Discover Japan and Maker Highlight
Sakuraco April 2023 "Arrival of Sakura" Snack Guide
This month's box comes with a postcard featuring hanami-inspired artwork. On the back is a message from the founder of Sakuraco about why she chose to feature this particular theme this month. Every box also contains a "snack guide," which includes an introduction and a brief history of a particular maker, snack, and prefecture, as well as information on the the month's selected tea and snacks. Of course, the guide also showcases every item included in the box, with detailed descriptions and allergy warnings. Included in my "Arrival of Sakura" box are the following items:

Clockwise from bottom left: Sakura Castella, Sakura Warabimochi, Sweet Sakura Tea x 2, Sakura Mochi, and Sakura Konpeito

• Sakura Castella by Serri Daikokudo (Osaka) — "Serii Daikokudo craftsmen carefully bake each cake on by one in a kiln to create this fluffy castella. Its sweet and slightly sour flavour results from the sugar-pickled cherry blossom petals blended into its cherry blossom paste."
• Sakura Warabimochi by Tsuuruya Confectionery (Osaka) — "This soft traditional Japanese dessert crafted by the makers at Tsuruya Confectionery brings a floral burst of elegance to your palate. Infused with the sweet taste of cherry blossom honey, each refreshing bite is a reminder of breezy spring days."
• Sweet Sakura Tea by Nihon Ryokucha Center (Tokyo) — "Experience a small taste of hanami during your afternoon tea. This slightly sweet tea contains real cherry blossoms that bloom in hot water, creating a gorgeous bouquet for all the senses."
• Sakura Mochi by Marusan Tamakiya (Nagano) — "This chewy mochi is lightly sprinkled with an iridescent powder, making it glisten in the light. The sweetness of these pieces, combined with the floral notes of the cherry blossom, creates a harmonious balance of flavours and textures."
• Sakura Konpeito by Matsumoto Confectionery (Osaka) — "The pink hue of these konpeito is inspired by the delicate petals of the sakura flower. The crisp, crunchy texture and gentle sweetness of each piece make for the perfect treat to enjoy during a picnic."

Left to right: Sakura Karinto, Sakura Shortbread Cookies x 2, Sakura Soft Chew x 2, and Sakura Donut Bou x 2

• Sakura Karinto by Kimura (Kumamoto) — "This crunchy confection crafted with delicate cherry leaves brings a gentle and sweet flavour to your palate. The aroma of cherry blossoms ads to its charm, offering a sensory experience that is both tranquil and delightful."
• Sakura Shortbread Cookies by Nakayama Seika (Tochigi) — "These shortbread cookies are filled with a warm-coloured pink sakura jam. The cookies are expertly kneaded with margarine and cocoa, making the crunchy outside the perfect sweet cradle."
• Sakura Soft Chew by Sugiura Confectionery (Shiga) — "Embrace the ethereal beauty of sakura season with this namagashi, or traditional Japanese sweet. The artisans at Sugiura Confectionery have artfully crafted this soft chew in the shape of a cherry blossom flower."
• Sakura Donut Bou by Fujibambi (Kumamoto) — "The crispy fried dough of these donut bou is soaked in honey and plenty of cherry blossom syrup, resulting in a fresh, spring flavour. Crispy on the outside and moist on the inside, these treats are perfectly paired with a warm cup of tea."

Left to right: Shiso Senbei, Sakura Cookies, Sakura Leaf Senbei x 2, and Ume Shio Rice Cracker x 2

• Shiso Senbei by Sakurado (Niigata) — "These bite-sized pink rice crackers are dipped in premium Japanese sugar and shiso before being finished with a Nanko pickled plum powder. The fresh aroma of shiso leaves wonderfully compliments the crackers' sweet and sour taste."
• Sakura Cookies by Shoeido Confectionery (Hyogo) — "These crisp and crunchy cookies are carefully made with cherry blossoms and Hokkaido wheat, giving them sweetness and a golden brown colour with hints of pink."
• Sakura Leaf Senbei by Kato Confectionery (Aichi) — "These rice crackers are kneaded with salted cherry blossom leaves, giving them the soft aroma of sakura blended nicely with hints of shrimp and salt."
• Ume Shio Rice Cracker by Kuriyama Beika (Niigata) — "This crispy and soft rice cracker is made with Seto Island salt, or Seto shio. Its deep flavour is balanced with a refreshing plum flavour with a hint of bonito."

Sakura Springtime Dish

• Sakura Springtime Dish by Bloom (Gifu) — "The surfaces of these dishes serve as the perfect backdrops for the soft cherry blossoms. The pink petals seemingly float across each dish's surface, freezing the beauty of sakura season in time."

I was actually in Seoul during the prime of cherry blossom blooming, and also managed to catch some late-blooming sakura while in Kyoto as well, and let me tell you, it is really a glorious sight to see in real life. The cityscapes do look magical, and everyone's moods are just lighter and happier. That having been said, though, I've never been a huge fan of sakura in food — sakura-flavoured snacks and desserts were literally being sold everywhere while we were in Japan, even McDonald's, and even though they look pretty (the food and the packaging), they're still, you know, floral. So we'll see how I fare with April's snacks. But the plate is really, really cute.

Now, my picks from March's box: the Hitoiki Cafe Cream Cake (imagine a Twinkie meets those little vanilla cupcakes from the Chinese bakery — nostalgia at its finest!), the Yatsuhashi (it's like Big Red gum in cookie form, but it works), the Salted Caramel Nut Sable (sweet, nutty, and buttery, maybe the tastiest packaged cookie I've ever had), the Lightly Spiced Mayo Crackers (exactly as described — it somehow tastes creamy while giving a spicy kick — and super addictive), and of course, the Sencha (this one from Ujicha Gion Tsujiri has an amazing aroma and deep flavour).

Finally, a reminder to those who have decided to subscribe to Sakuraco: Sakuraco will auto-renew your subscription if you do not cancel before your previous subscription ends. Remember that any amount paid is final and non-refundable. So always double-check when your subscription will end so you don't get surprise charged.

Sakuraco Japanese Snack Box: March 2023 — Taste of Japan

My March Sakuraco box arrived while I was actually in Japan, so this post is really delayed. (In fact, my April box also arrived while I was in Japan, and my May box is already arriving next week so I have a lot of snacks to go through.) I was actually thinking of not posting this at all because this box is no longer available anyway, but I haven't missed a single one yet and I figured I can still use it for review and comparison purposes.

For those who don't know, Sakuraco is a monthly premium Japanese snack box subscription program. I decided to do six months to start and accidentally subscribed for another six months, which ended up being approximately $65 CAD per box after shipping costs. (I want to note that they do use DHL to ship. Out of the 8 boxes I've received, I only got charged for duties on one box, but I want to be transparent about additional fees.) It is not a cheap subscription, but the snacks have proved to be quite unique (and I say this after coming back from Japan). Each box includes 20 items — including a tea, traditional sweets, seasonal treats, baked goods, and one home item — all centred around one specific Japanese region or theme. All monthly boxes are available from the 15th of every month to the 15th of the next month. 

Sakuraco March 2023 "Taste of Japan" Japanese Snack Box
March's theme is "Taste of Japan," which, unlike the previous boxes, focuses on Japan as a whole. For this box, Sakuraco stated, "This month, we invite you on a journey to sample all of what Japan has to offer. As you taste these carefully curated snacks, let your taste buds transport you. Brace against the cold of Hokkaido, trek through the wilderness of Chiba, and feel the fresh sea breeze of Okinawa. Indulge in the diverse bits of flavour that's developed over the centuries from the land of the Rising Sun." I think that Sakuraco decided to do this "general" theme for the sake of introducing new subscribers to Japanese snacks, although as someone who was only able to explore three cities in Japan, I still think it's interesting to see snacks from other parts of the country that I wasn't able to visit. (And it's pretty cool that I can say I've visited the place featured on the front of the snack guide this month.)

Sakuraco March 2023 "Taste of Japan" Greeting Postcard — The Entrance Gate at Enoshima in Sagami Province by Utagawa Hiroshige
Sakuraco March 2023 "Taste of Japan" Snack Guide
Sakuraco March 2023 "Taste of Japan" Snack Guide — Introduction
Sakuraco March 2023 "Taste of Japan" Snack Guide — Maker Spotlight and Discover Japan
Sakuraco March 2023 "Taste of Japan" Snack Guide
This month's box comes with a postcard featuring the artwork, The Entrance Gate at Enoshima in Sagami Province, from the series, Thirty-Six Views of Mt. Fuji, by Utagawa Hiroshige. On the back is a message from the founder of Sakuraco about why she chose to feature this particular theme this month. Every box also contains a "snack guide," which includes an introduction and a brief history of a particular maker, snack, and prefecture, as well as information on the the month's selected tea and snacks. Of course, the guide also showcases every item included in the box, with detailed descriptions and allergy warnings. Included in my "Taste of Japan" box are the following items:

Clockwise from left: Kuromitsu Kinako Mochi, Salted Caramel Nut Sable, Edomae Sushi Candy, and Vanilla Hime Kagami

• Kuromitsu Kinako Mochi by Tengudo Takarabune (Hokkaido) — "Japan's northernmost prefecture, Hokkaido, endures harsh and snowy winters. The Hokkaido-based makers at Tengudo Takarabune have crafted a kinako (soybean flour) mochi to warm the soul and wrapped it in a kuromitsu, or brown sugar, edible wrapping."
• Salted Caramel Nut Sable by Nanpudo (Okinawa) — "In contrast to Hokkaido's harsh winters, Okinawa is known as a vacation destination for those wishing to escape into a tropical paradise. The moderate saltiness of the Okinawan salt is the perfect contrast to the sweet, smooth flavour of caramel."
• Edomae Sushi Candy by Sanshu Confectionery (Saitama) — "These sushi-shaped pieces of sweet candy are a treat for the eyes and the taste buds. Each piece is artfully crafted by the makers at Sanshu Confectionery in Saitama to resemble the traditional Japanese dish."
• Vanilla Hime Kagami by Kawachi Surugaya (Osaka) — "Creamy vanilla filling sit encased between two crisp waffle-inspired wafers to create this decadent cookie sandwich from Osaka's Kawachi Surugaya."

Left to right: Hina Arare, Hitoiki Cafe Cream Cake, Sencha x 2, and Yatsuhashi x 2

• Hina Arare by Tenkei Confectionery (Nagano) — "Filled with slightly sweet red bean paste, this moist Japanese-style pie has a wonderfully tender, buttery crust. It's perfect as a light dessert or as an afternoon snack."
• Hitoiki Cafe Cream Cake by Lima (Osaka) — "These sweet cakes from Osaka tempt the tastebuds with a creamy filling inside. Their pillowy outside harmoniously blends with the sweet smooth flavours enveloped inside. A delightful surprise awaits with a clue on the packaging. Will you sink your teeth into an indulgent custard cream or a fruity banana filling?"
• Sencha by Gion Tsujiri (Kyoto) — "The ritual of preparing and savouring sencha, a type of Japanese green tea, has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. The birthplace of sencha, Kyoto, has a rich cultural heritage helping to shape sencha as a symbol of refinement and elegance. Traveling to Kyoto today, you'll still find sencha being used for traditional tea ceremonies throughout the city."
• Yatsuhashi by Kyoeidou (Kyoto) — "Rice flour is carefully kneaded and mixed with sugary cinnamon powder and sesame seeds, then rolled out and baked to create this signature yatsuhashi. Kyoeidou's confectioneries are known across Japan as Kyoto's representative souvenirs."

Left to right: Lightly Spiced Mayo Crackers, Mayonnaise Arare, Kanji Side Dish, and Mini Millet Okoshi x 2

• Lightly Spiced Mayo Crackers by Maeda Confectionery (Osaka) — "Mayonnaise and chili peppers are carefully kneaded with dough then topped with a sprinkling of cod roe mayonnaise seasoning to create these rice crackers. The spiciness of the chili pepper and cod roe combined with the mildness of the mayonnaise create the perfect balance of savoury flavours."
• Mayonnaise Arare by Takahashi Shokuhin (Osaka) — "The bold flavours of savoury shrimp, nutty sesame, and the ocean's essence of seaweed are expertly blended together with rich mayonnaise to create this arare. Light and crispy, these arare are the perfect snack for traveling."
• Kanji Side Dish by Yamako (Gifu) — "This side dish is decorated with the red and white traditional symbols that represent key aspects of Japanese culture. On the lids of the dishes, you can find a fuku character, meaning fortune, a kotobuki character, meaning longevity, and a mizuhiki symbol, meaning togetherness."
• Mini Millet Okoshi by Nissin Foods (Nara) — "Starting as far back as the 8th century, this treat was used as an inconic omiyage, or souvenir, for travelers in the Kansai region. This okoshi from Nissin Foods has a perfectly balanced taste of ginger infused in its millet."

Left to right: Matcha Round Boro x 2, Chestnut Kanoko, Salted Yokan, and Akita Miso Senbei

• Matcha Round Boro by Motomura Confectionery (Saga) — "The makers at Motomura Confectionery craft the subtle sweetness of this soft cookie by carefully kneading green tea into its dough, lending it its beautiful green colour hidden inside."
• Chestnut Kanoko by Morihaku Confectionery (Gifu) — "This jelly, called kanoko, hails from Gifu prefecture. Its warm, golden colour gives a hint to the earthy, lightly sweet taste of the jelly. At the bottom of the jelly, you'll find a candied chestnut surrounded by azuki beans sourced from Hokkaido."
• Salted Yokan by Yoneya (Chiba) — "This bite-sized, delicately-flavoured red bean paste jelly is made from salt from the inhabited volcanic island off of the coast of Chiba prefecture called Izu Oshima. A two-hour boat ride from Mainland Japan, Izu Oshima is known by many adventure seekers as an island escape."
• Akita Miso Senbei by Akita Inafuku (Akita) — "This rice cracker is made with the finest miso from Kodama Brewery in Akita prefecture. Crispy, bite-sized, and infused with a delicate sweetness, it serves as a perfect representation of the culinary heritage of Akita prefecture. Furthermore, this senbei was the recipient of the Akita Food Championship 2021 Encouragement Award.

I actually went to Ujicha Gion Tsujiri while visiting Kyoto, so I am particularly excited for the inclusion of their sencha in this box. I've discovered that I love really potent green tea and the one at Ujicha Gion Tsujiri is excellent. (One of my regrets is not bringing back a couple boxes of their sencha while I was actually at the store. Alas, I had no more luggage space.)  

My picks from February's box: Chocolate Strawberries (it's basically freeze-dried strawberries dipped in chocolate, but the crunchiness somehow makes it more addictive — and way cheaper — than fresh chocolate-dipped strawberries), Ogura An Pie (I'm kind of indifferent to the red bean paste filling, but the buttery crust is hecking delicious), Senshu Onion Sable (you wouldn't think an onion-flavoured butter cookie would work, but this was surprisingly tasty), and the Kinchidori Soup Bowl (which is super cute and has really come in handy — except I use it to hold my fruits rather than soup).

Finally, a reminder to those who have decided to subscribe to Sakuraco: Sakuraco will auto-renew your subscription if you do not cancel before your previous subscription ends. Remember that any amount paid is final and non-refundable. So always double-check when your subscription will end so you don't get surprise charged.