Sakuraco is a monthly Japanese Snack Box subscription celebrating authentic Japanese flavors. They support family-owned businesses, featuring monthly 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 pair of legit chopsticks. 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. I will definitely be repurposing it. I love it when subscriptions put so much care into their boxes. ♡
Sakuraco included an inspirational note describing the Noto Peninsula, which was rocked by a devastating earthquake this year. The area is resilient, rebuilding, and is dedicated to preserving its traditions despite the natural disaster.
It was not surprising that Sakuraco included a gorgeous booklet since its packaging was so impressive. This booklet describes each snack and lists if it contains any common allergy. It also includes several articles ranging from in-depth descriptions of how some snacks are made, traditional crafts of Noto, and stories of hope and restoration after the earthquake. I learned so much that I really worked up a hunger. Let's dig into these snacks!
What's Inside:
Hojicha Kinako Mochi
I never had such fresh, bouncy little mochi balls, yum! I am accustomed to the frozen ones from Trader Joe's, so this was a really welcomed change of pace. They are perfectly squishy, and I love the subtle green tea flavor. They are coated in roasted soybean flour called kinako, and the filling is a subtly sweet roasted green tea.
Wakasa Chopsticks
Each subscriber will receive a pair of lacquered chopsticks from the Wakasa region of Fukui this month. I received the black, but there is also a red variation that looks equally cool. The top is embellished with traditional, ornate Japanese designs. They feel more comfortable to hold than the disposable ones I've used in the past, and they are dishwasher safe.
Cocoa & Plain Ruby Roman Wafers
These two were in my top five treats in this month's box. I've always loved wafers, who doesn't!? But these had a fun fruity twist, and they weren't as sweet as your typical vanilla, chocolate or strawberry wafer that you can find here.
Chocolate Pie
This petite chocolate pie has so many great components. Flakey crust, sugar-dusted, and a rich chocolate filling in the center, I was so happy they included two in this month's box.
Kombu Arare & Shrimp Arare
This savory snack is a crispy, crunchy find that comes in two flavors. The shrimp flavor was my favorite; I was initially hesitant, but it had a subtle sweetness that instantly won me over. The kelp flavor wasn't as bold, but it was still tasty.
Shrimp Flower Senbei
As soon as I unwrapped this little cutie, my 2-year-old snatched it right out of my hand and took a big bite. She loved the crunch it made. I managed to wrangle the last bite or so from her, and I enjoyed the shrimpy taste. This rice cracker is baked with black beans and shrimp, two foods considered signs of good fortune.
Yuzu Senbei
This Yuzu Senbei was created just for this box! It is a unique blend of a savory crunch plus citrus fruit tied into a little crunch that happens to be shaped like adorable little tacos. These are full of flavor and were a delight to munch on.
Sesame Senbei
I just love the taste of sesame seeds, so this was a hit for me. It is made without using butter or additives, and it is a local favorite at the the Wajima Morning Market in Ishikawa.
Grape Jelly
I took the jelly label too literally and tried this on toast. It was too slippery and wet, so basically, it is slurpable like jello. My toddler was excited by this method and helped me to finish the cup. We loved the tangy grape flavor and wished we had another to share.
It is also fun to poke and wiggle around.
Cinnamon Walnuts
Walnuts are my favorite, especially when they are coated in cinnamon sugar. They were sweet enough to kick my sweet tooth but not nearly as sweet as the ones you'd find at the mall. I am learning to appreciate the art of subtle sweetness that Japanese snacks have to offer.
Kaga Shizuku Rice Candy
I made the mistake of biting right into one of these blocks of candy (old habits-ouch!). It is made from Kaga Shizuku pears kneaded into rice syrup. This candy craft has been around for nearly 500 years, a traditional Noto gem.
Kintsuba
This confection is a rich blend of red bean paste in a lightly toasted crust. I enjoyed the sweet red bean flavor, but I could have done without the crust. My daughter loved the soft texture, crust and all!
Noto Sweet Potato
This little tator was packaged so delicately. I loved unwrapping it to find a little spud of sweet potato and bean goodness. With a hint of cinnamon mixed with sweet potato, this guy impressed the whole family.
Earl Grey & Gorojima Cakes
Out of all the snacks from this month and last, these two are tied for my number one favorite. Both flavors were amazing, fruity yet sophisticated. Gorojima cake is infused with Kaga vegetables and sweet potatoes, and the Earl Grey is made using Noto black tea. I can't stop thinking about the Earl Grey cake, and once I do, my mouth starts watering. These little slices were so moist and delicious; I need to start googling recipes immediately!
Bowcha Roasted Tea
Bowcha tea is made from organic matcha stems; it has a unique and bold flavor, but at the same time, it is easy and soothing to sip on.
The Verdict
Sakuraco's November box was vastly different from last month's, which left me feeling really excited for this subscription. There was such a wonderful range of flavors and textures, and I can't stop thinking about that delicious Earl Grey cake, yum! I am so happy to report that after two months of subscribing, I am still wowed by the whole presentation; everything from unboxing to the taste-testing session I enjoyed with my family was 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 chopsticks. 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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