I was intrigued by several TikToks showcasing Japanese crystal candy this fall season.
Kohakutō’s ASMR-inducing crunch and elegant appearance were instantly fascinating. It’s colorful appearance and ability to be shaped into fun shapes is also appealing.
I felt like I could taste it through the screen. So I just had to get my hands on some. Luckily in Japan, it’s easy to find if you know what to look for.
Table of Contents
What is Kohakuto?
Kohakutō (琥珀糖) literally means amber sugar. The candies resemble pieces of delicately colored glass or amber.
They’re made simply using a combination of agar, sugar, and flavorings. They can be shaped into unique shapes, and some are even made with edible glitter.
Kohakutō has a signature crunch on the outside, yet a jelly-like interior. This is made possible since it’s let to dry after gelatinizing.
It’s also a classic “wagashi” (和菓子) or traditional Japanese sweet that can be enjoyed by anyone. Plus it’s a perfect pairing with green tea.
Ordering a Japanese Candy/Wagashi Box
@shiawasekat I go more in depth about kohakuto and this delightful box in my blog at katinjapan . com 😉 #kohakutou #kohakuto #japanesesweets #japan #livinginjapan #giftideas #christmastreats #ambersugar ♬ original sound - Kat
This year, instead of buying an advent calendar or lucky bags, we opted for a box of Japanese sweets.
Since I wasn’t sure what advent calendar would be best and I didn’t need any excess goods, this treat box sounded like a better way to celebrate.
We ordered our box online from a company called Mitsunobu-T. I used my browser’s translate feature a ton, but the order process was pretty straightforward!
They offered various gift options and wraps, plus seasonal sweets and flavors.
Essentially, you choose your preferred candy – we went with a variety box – then choose what type of wrap and optional personalization.
I chose a Christmas-themed wrap, which was very cute. The box itself was also very elegant, made of thick, black card-stock. Its wooden lid really impressed me.
It cost ¥6000 (about $40), and felt every bit as fancy.
They took Amazon Pay and credit cards. I was even able to schedule the delivery date and time.
No matter the holiday they offer seasonal boxes and deals. For example, kohakutō would make a great Valentine’s Day or birthday gift.
How Does it Taste?
The desserts included several flavors of youkan, aka Japanese-style sweets made with agar, sugar, and red bean paste.
It also included 4 dorayaki filled with red bean paste, which Ramón really enjoyed.
And of course the kohakutō! They came in 5 flavors: yuzu, strawberry, kiwi, blueberry, and mango.
Their texture is a bit difficult to describe, but it’s not completely smooth jelly. Rather, it kind of breaks apart like a dry gel.
This company’s flavors were really true to the fruits themselves. Lightly fruity and not-too-sweet.
I greatly enjoyed them, but they may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
Click images to enlarge!
While the dorayaki had to be consumed within a couple of weeks, the youkan and kohakutō have lasted the month since we bought them.
It’s made a fun treat box for this holiday season and one that won’t take up extra space once we finish the candies.
Should You Try Kohakutō?
I highly recommend giving this type of candy box a try.
If you’re ever in Japan or come across this treat in your area, I highly recommend trying it.
It’s certainly unique, and its subtle flavors make it a delicious tea-time treat or coffee accompaniment.
Plus it’s wonderful to share with friends and family during the holidays. And if you’re looking for other ways to enjoy the holiday season, look no further than ordering KFC Christmas!