Japan Rankings
Matcha (green tea powder 抹茶) is one of Japan's most iconic flavors. It's deeply rooted in traditional tea ceremonies, yet it has found its way into countless modern snacks and sweets. If you're planning a trip to Japan and want to explore the unique world of matcha treats, this guide is your ultimate list. Discover the most popular matcha snacks in Japan, why locals love them, and where you can find them!
What it is: A matcha-flavored twist on the globally loved chocolate wafer.
Why Japanese love it: It balances creamy white chocolate with the slightly bitter taste of premium Uji matcha. It’s nostalgic, familiar, yet unique.
Where to buy: Available in convenience stores, souvenir shops, airports, and supermarkets across Japan. Also found in special regional editions.
What it is: Creamy green tea ice cream from brands like Haagen-Dazs or local shops.
Why Japanese love it: It’s refreshing, slightly bitter, and sweet — the perfect balance. Great in summer or any time of year.
Where to buy: Supermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty ice cream parlors.
What it is: A soft, fluffy sponge cake infused with green tea.
Why Japanese love it: Castella (originally Portuguese) is a beloved cake, and matcha adds a traditional twist. Moist and slightly sweet.
Where to buy: Department stores, souvenir shops, and wagashi (Japanese sweets) stores.
What it is: Biscuit sticks coated in green tea chocolate.
Why Japanese love it: Easy to snack on, share, and enjoy with tea. Pocky is a childhood favorite upgraded with a grown-up flavor.
Where to buy: Widely available in supermarkets and convenience stores.
What it is: Soft, creamy dessert made with green tea.
Why Japanese love it: Elegant, smooth texture with a delicate balance of bitter and sweet. Often served with whipped cream or red bean paste.
Where to buy: Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart.
What it is: Two pancakes filled with matcha-flavored bean paste or cream.
Why Japanese love it: A modern take on a traditional sweet. The matcha brings a refreshing depth to the rich filling.
Where to buy: Supermarkets, traditional sweets shops, and convenience stores.
What it is: Thin butter cookies sandwiched with matcha-flavored chocolate or cream.
Why Japanese love it: Light, crisp, and perfect with tea. A common gift item thanks to its elegant packaging.
Where to buy: Souvenir stores, airports, department store food halls.
What it is: Rice crackers with a touch of matcha flavor.
Why Japanese love it: Combines the savory crunch of senbei with the subtle bitterness of green tea. A unique blend of flavors.
Where to buy: Supermarkets, traditional snack shops, and gift stores.
What it is: Glutinous rice cake filled with matcha cream or bean paste.
Why Japanese love it: Chewy texture with creamy, flavorful filling. A beloved seasonal treat, often found during spring and summer.
Where to buy: Supermarkets, wagashi shops, or convenience stores.
What it is: A green tea twist on the German-style layered cake.
Why Japanese love it: Soft, elegant, and perfect as a tea-time dessert. Popular as a gift or souvenir.
Where to buy: Specialty bakeries, department stores, and gift shops.
Whether you're a matcha maniac or just curious about Japanese snacks, these top 10 treats offer a delicious way to explore the culture through its flavors.
Don't forget to try them all and bring some back as souvenirs!
