My first foray into Japanese sour candies was during a solo trip to my local Japanese market in New York City. I had gone with the intention of buying only a few necessities, but couldn’t resist a ...

Japanese candy surpasses American in many regards. The candies feature exciting, unusual flavors (musk melon, kabocha pumpkin, soy sauce), packaging that’s covered with animated figures and ...

During cherry blossom season in Japan, folks participate in “hanami,” which translates to “flower watching.” Friends, co-workers and families spread blankets under the blossoming trees, eat a bento or ...

Imagine inhaling the delicate, sweet scent of azuki bean paste mingled with the soft, enticing textures of mochi rice. Wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets, are more than just delightful treats; they ...

EDITOR’S NOTE: This CNN Travel series is, or was, sponsored by the destination it highlights. CNN retains full editorial control over subject matter, reporting and frequency of the articles and videos ...