“Have you tried wagashi? Does it taste good?”

Yes! But here’s a secret – I didn’t like them at first. Let me explain.

The Secret to Enjoying Wagashi

“What changed your mind?”

I realized I was eating them wrong. Wagashi are meant to be eaten with matcha!

• Matcha is very bitter
• Wagashi are very sweet
• Together, they balance perfectly

It’s like:

• Cola with a hamburger
• Milk in coffee to make cafe au lait

The combination is key!

What Makes Wagashi Special

“Why do people like them?”

Wagashi are:

• Visually beautiful – Like edible art
• Less sugar than Western sweets – Considered healthier
• Seasonal – Different designs for each season
• Traditional – Part of tea ceremony culture

How to Start

“I want to try them. Where do I begin?”

My advice:

• Start with small wagashi (not big manju)
• Order matcha with it
• Try famous shops for the best quality

Top shops:

• Toraya – Most famous, has a shop at Tokyo Station
• Taneya – Also excellent quality

What Japanese People Actually Do

Most locals:

• Eat wagashi with tea
• Buy them as gifts (very common!)
• Enjoy seasonal varieties
• Consider them a special treat

Extra Travel Tips

1. Order matcha together – Trust me on this

2. Start small – Don’t buy a big box first

3. Department store basements – Great selection

4. Seasonal is special – Ask what’s available now

5. Great souvenirs – Beautiful packaging, lasts well

Have more questions about Japanese food? Follow me on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok for daily tips!