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 $32.50 monthly with an annual subscription. I received plenty of snacks to try this month, ranging from sweet to savory. 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. ♡
November's box gives you a look inside of the wonders of Nagano. It was not surprising that Sakuraco included a gorgeous booklet; all of their packaging is so impressive! This booklet describes each snack and lists whether it contains any common allergens.
What's Inside:
Apple Manju
Nagano, located in the Alps, has orchards that grow a prized crop called the Shinshu apples. They are known to be crisp and sweet with a subtle tangy flavor. This little treat features a Shinshu apple and white bean paste filling, enveloped by a moist milk bun.
Apple Cookie
I was so impressed by how much apple flavor was packed into this small, beige cookie. It honestly blew me away, and I wished we had more to snack on. This would have been a lovely treat to enjoy with hot black tea.
Shinshu Apple Sandwich Cookie
If fall were a flavor, I think it would taste exactly like this cookie sandwich. Notes of cinnamon, apple, and vanilla combine to make this cookie sandwich a memorable one. Cornflakes are also added to the filling, which adds an unexpected crunch that works perfectly.
Mochi Mugi Senbei
Sweet and savory is my love language. I was thrilled to have several senbei in this bag to enjoy! The rich flavor is a combination of soy sauce glaze and honey, finished off with a powdered miso that turned ordinary rice and barley crackers into an addictive snack.
Wasabi Senbei
I really wish I appreciated the complexity of wasabi, but alas, I am not that girl. Of course, I still had to give these a fair shot, and I did notice other flavors of seaweed and soy that made the wasabi less of a main character.
Black Pepper Shiitake Arare
I absolutely loved the unique flavors found in the Black Pepper Shiitake Arare. It was a flavor bomb that my little ones did not enjoy, but I couldn't get enough of the rich umami flavors and prominent black pepper. There aren't enough mushroom-flavored snacks in the world, which made this a very unique tasting experience.
Walnut Biscuit
I eat walnuts every day, so it was a delight to find walnut biscuits inside this month's box. I know that I've never had the pleasure of trying a walnut biscuit, but I will be seeking them out now. This beautiful biscuit is made by kneading walnut pieces and powder into biscuit dough, then they are baked slowly til they are a crispy golden brown. I loved the subtly sweet, nutty flavor, and once again, wished I had more to savor.
Saga Shippo Plate
I love it when Sakuraco features lovely Japanese ceramics. They are always safely nestled inside the box; I've never had any issues with the items arriving damaged or broken. The Shippo pattern on this plate symbolizes harmony and endless connection, something the world needs a little more of nowadays. It is the perfect size and shape for condiments or dessert. It is also microwave and dishwasher-safe.
Chestnut Pie
Every month, this subscription helps me realize how I enjoy simpler, more subtle desserts much more than the sugary-sweet treats you can find here. White bean paste and smooth chestnut is gently wrapped in a flaky dough that stays tender and moist.
Mitarashi Mochi
I have never tried a savory mochi, so I was a little hesitant at first. Of course, they were a win all around, and my three-year-old ended up being their biggest fan. They are irresistibly fresh and chewy on the outside, with gooey, sweet soy sauce tucked inside.
Apple Pie Danish
This season's apple theme has been such a joy to unwrap. The apple pie danish was lovely; it is made with Nagano Prefecture apple jam, generously folded into a delicate crust made from fermented Japanese wheat.
Shine Muscat & Kyoho Grape Jellies
This month's jellies were our top favorites. The grape flavors were out of this world; bold, juicy fruit in every drop. My kids slurped these up very quickly, I was lucky to have a taste at all. I liked that these were a little firmer than the usual slurpable jellies, and I hope to see more of these in future deliveries.
Melon Hojicha
Woah, I absolutely loved this month's tea samples. This sencha was heightened by notes of sweet melon; the aroma of this tea was honestly mouth-watering, even before brewing.
The Verdict
Sakuraco's November box had luscious finds from beautiful Nagano. I was impressed with all the vibrant snacks that were just bursting with bold, fruity flavor. My family and I cherish unboxing this subscription together; it is so fun to see their reactions to each flavor profile and to fight over all of the tasty pastries and sugary treats. Discovering new treats and unboxing with the fam makes this $32.50 worth every penny.
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Value – Was This Box Worth It?
The Cost: $32.50. This box ships directly from Japan and includes 14 artisanal snacks and an adorably authentic furoshiki cloth. It is like spending $2.30 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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