It’s a tad embarrassing to say this, but during our first day or so in Japan we completely relied on snack foods for nourishment, seeing as we had no idea where to find a market. This has led me to discover some of the most amazing treats that would put any American packaged snack to shame. Not only do the Japanese win in the taste category, but they also stomp the competition in presentation. For some reason, the Japanese seem to love excess packaging which is apparent when opening a can of Pringle-like chips here (Chip Star). Aside from the can, the chips are also wrapped in a plastic wrapper. Here are some of the delectables that i’ve discovered along my short journey. The Japanese word for snack is okashi (お菓子).

Crunky
Crunky is simply fantastic. Not only is it a beefed up version of the American Crunch bar (more crunch for your ￥), it’s name is also hilarious. Try putting a little more Crunk in your day.

The Peach Pouch
This isn’t the actual name for this tasty temptation, but it’s how it has become affectionately known by our group. The peach pouch seems to be a mixture or peach juice and peach flavored gelatin, a texture that might make some gag, but a snack that has become one of my favorites, and it’s only 49 kcal!

Pocky
Pocky is a crunchy stick covered in some type of coating (all delicious). These Pocky are apple yogurt, but the strawberry and chocolate Pocky are good as well. They actually have “Pocky for Men” which is more of a bitter chocolate (apparently the women can’t handle it).

Pure Gummies
Pure Gummies come in many flavors, and I assume that they are made with real fruit juice, since they taste exactly like their target fruit. The lime are the best in my opinion, but the others are good too.

Creepy Panda Cookies
さくさくぱんだ or Sakusaku Panda are delicious, but creepy, panda cookies and are definitely the most entertaining food that I’ve had so far. There are actually rare faces that you can find in the boxes (the angry looking one in the picture).