Sakuraco is a monthly Japanese Snack Box subscription celebrating authentic Japanese flavors. Committed to supporting family-owned businesses, each month this box features snacks from a ''new corner of Japan.'' Indulge in artisan treats and learn more about Japanese culture with them through flavor and tea.
This box was sent to us at no cost for review. (Check out our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes).
Sakuraco costs $37.50 monthly; you can save more by committing to a longer subscription. I received plenty of snacks to try this month, plus a beautiful Sakura Wagashi Plate. This box shipped directly from Japan; everything arrived in perfect condition and didn't take long to get to me.
First Impressions
Once again, the packaging for this box is stunning. ♡
June's box gives you a taste of Kyushu. It was not surprising that Sakuraco included a gorgeous booklet, since its packaging is so impressive. This booklet describes each snack and lists if it contains any common allergens. It also includes articles about crafts, traditions, and the natural wonders of Kyushu.
What's Inside:
Wasabi Pistachios
No matter how hard I try, I can never get past the potent taste of wasabi. I am sure these are delicious for anyone remotely interested in that particular experience, but my taste buds do not agree.
Kyushu Soy Sauce Arare
Every month, I look forward to different versions of Arare snacks. I've never tried anything like it before this subscription, and I have to admit that I am completely hooked on that sweet and savory crunch Arare is known for. This version is made with rice flour dough, which is covered in a delicious soy sauce glaze.
Issa Senbei
This flaky senbei has a subtly sweet flavor. The green coating is an aonori, or green laver, syrup; it is a traditional snack that is said to have a nostalgic taste. I shared the two servings with my two-year-old, who was immediately intrigued by the "green biscuits."
Kumamoto Watermelon Gummies
I couldn't wait to try gummies from Japan, immediately wondering how they would differ from the ones made in the US. I was glad these are not the texture that stick to your teeth, and the watermelon flavor was brilliant.
Kokuto Donuts
This donut was nothing like the donuts you can find at Dunkin' or any local bakery. It is understated and subtly sweet. You can taste the brown sugar in every bite, and it isn't cloying or sticky. I loved the crisp exterior, but once you bit into it, the moist, chewy middle stole the show. I prefer donuts this way and wish there were somewhere close to buy them.
Black Sesame Taiko
This impressive snack took home the gold at Japan's 25th National Confectionery Expo, and I can attest to its merit. Black sesame seeds and almonds are stuck together with a sweet honey glaze, and the combination is phenomenal. I've grown to really appreciate sesame flavors, but when it is paired with a subtle sweetness, it is bliss in snack form.
Kuzukiri
I am always fascinated by this slimy snack. It is fun to try; my kids and I love to watch them wiggle around the bowl. They are delicious straight out of the pack, but the black honey is a total game-changer.
Kudzu starch is known for its smooth and chewy texture, which gives this treat its a solid gel-like consistency.
Wakasa Lacquer Chopsticks
Each subscriber will receive a pair of lacquered Wakasa chopsticks this month. I received the black, but a red variation also looks equally cool. The top is embellished with folding fans and gourds (an interesting combo to me), symbols of beauty and good fortune. They feel more comfortable to hold than the disposable ones I've used previously, and they are dishwasher safe.
Tsuru no Sato Marshmallow
Marshmallows are my absolute favorite treats. I love everything about them, but not all are as scrumptious as this. A smooth bean paste is nestled inside a bouncy 'shmallow, a newfound dynamic duo for me.
Amaou Strawberry Crunch
This tiny bite was a total tease. I believe crispy puffed rice is coated in smooth chocolate while the Amaou strawberries give this snack a tangy, fruity flavor. It is a lovely little snack, and I am thankful I have two to enjoy this month.
Gyokuro Chocolate Wafer
Wafers have always had a hold on me. Any flavor with a subtle sweetness, including this infamous green tea grown in Yame, infused with a wafer is magic. Two sweet bites and your sweet tooth is quenched.
Nagasaki Honey Castella
Sweet cakey snacks are my absolute favorite. They are always impressively moist, packing a subtle sweetness you simply can't find in our grocery stores.
Chiran Ryokucha
While steeping this tea, I could smell its aroma across the room. It is a rich, full-bodied, and flavorful green tea hailing from Chiran, Kagoshima Prefecture, infamous for exceptional quality and unique flavor profiles.
The color of this tea is a vibrant spring green. Lovely!
The Verdict
Sakuraco's June box was, once again, stacked with diverse flavors and a range of textures. My favorites were the watermelon gummies, the black sesame taiko, and the Tsuru no Sato Marshmallow - yum! I will be thinking about all of those tasty snacks all month long. Japan has so many marvelous snacks, which I would have never known if it wasn't for my Sakuraco subscription. This box always bursts with authentic Japanese flavors, and I thoroughly enjoy everything from unboxing the lovely packaging to our taste-testing session. It is especially fun sharing this experience with my family and is so worth the $37.50 price tag.
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Value – Was This Box Worth It?
The Cost: $37.50. This box ships directly from Japan and included 14 artisanal snacks and a pair of snack plate. It is like spending $2.50 per item.
To Wrap Up
Can you still get this box if you sign up today? Yes
What do you think of this month's Sakuraco's box?
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