Dagashi and Wagashi: What’s the Difference?

There are tons of types of sweets in Japan. From wagashi (exquisite traditional confections) to dagashi (simple and cheap candy), there’s a sweet for every age and taste. Exploring the world of dagashi and wagashi guarantees the best experience of the playful side of Japan’s tasty treats. 

From cheap, colorful candies to intricately handcrafted sweets served during the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Japan is famous for its iconic sweets that are perfect for occasion and season. Here’s everything you need to know about Japanese sweets that have tickled taste buds for generations! Let’s dive into the delicious and colorful world of dagashi and wagashi—one of Japan’s best sweet treats! 

What is dagashi?

Dagashi is a fun and inexpensive treat from Japan that comes in many forms—candy, chocolate, chips, or even dried seafood! From sweet and sour to sometimes bizarre flavors, dagashi also comes in many flavors. Think of it as a cousin of regular candy with a unique and whimsical twist. Dagashi isn’t just sweets; it’s a tiny, affordable treasure packed with culture, flavor, and fun! It even brings back childhood memories for Japanese people.

Dagashi candy is well-loved in Japan for many reasons! First, they’re incredibly low-priced, so kids can buy them easily. These snacks also last long, so you don’t have to worry about spoiling, even in hot weather. And it’s not just the colorful wrappers that make dagashi exciting. These candies and snacks can be interactive, too! 

Some dagashi snacks can be played with before eating. Plus, sometimes you can find a prize inside, like another snack or a little toy. With all these fun features, it’s no wonder this Japanese treat is loved by kids and adults alike!

What is wagashi?

Flowers with pale pink and white petals, lavenders, and lilacs are arranged beautifully on a black plate. Their texture is soft, almost squishy. And when you put them in your mouth, they are heavenly. It is the heavenly world of Japanese confectionery or wagashi. 

Wagashi is a traditional Japanese dessert made from sweet bean paste, fruits, and vegetables with little or no artificial flavors. We’re talking about all the yummy treats sold on the streets of Japan for ages. They come in different colors, tastes, and various ingredients with varying preparation methods. There are many scrumptious Japanese wagashi to satisfy your cravings—each with unique tastes and designs. 

Unlike the much cheaper-to-produce dagashi, it took off during the Edo period of Japanese history. You’re probably already familiar with most of the popular types of wagashi. Mochi (rice cakes), taiyaki (fish-shaped cake), and anything matcha (green tea). Wagashi are more artisanal and a bit pricier than traditional dagashi. 

Where can I get dagashi?

In Japan, you can find dagashi at many convenience stores or old-school dagashi shops called dagashiya. It’s usually a small, family-run shop where kids love to hang out after school. The shop usually has more traditional flavors, like umeboshi (pickled plums) and ika senbei (squid-flavored crackers). You can also find tons of dagashi-inspired candies online. 

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What are some of the most popular wagashi in Japan?

Raindrop cake 

The raindrop cake is a famous agar agar-based wagashi. It’s a fun and refreshing jelly cake made from water and agar-agar. Raindrop cakes are less thick than jelly and quickly melt in the mouth.

This round-shaped gelatin dessert was initially served with kinako (roasted soybean powder) and kuromitsu (black sugar syrup). The roasted, peanut-y flavor and the sweet syrup, combined with the refreshing raindrop cake, make for a killer summertime dessert. Treat yourself to some heavenly raindrop cake!

Amezaiku 

What if we told you there’s a perfectly safe way to get your hands on some edible art? It’s called amezaiku, a traditional Japanese sweet that’s been around for centuries. Even more surprising is that you can buy and eat these candy sculptures—they’re not just for looking at. They are made with natural food coloring, so they are safe to eat and kind to your body. Try the enjoyment and taste of these treats!

Kompeito

Kompeito is a colorful sugar candy that looks like tiny stars and comes in all sorts of flavors. Originally from Portugal, the Japanese made it using zarame coarse sugar center. While it is tiny, the star shape makes it unique. These little candies are complex but very sweet. It comes in different colors and flavors.

If you need sugary goodness, konpeito is your go-to wagashi. You can have a pack in your pockets and throw some in your mouth while working or reading. 

Why should I try both wagashi and dagashi?

You should try wagashi and dagashi because they give an amazing glimpse into Japanese food, from high-end cuisine to more affordable choices! Enjoy the gorgeous wagashi desserts that are just as eye-catching as they are delicious. And don’t miss getting your hands on dagashi, which is enjoyed for its flavors and fun packaging. Why not let your taste buds go on a bit of adventure? You will get the best Japan has to offer! Have you tried dagashi or wagashi before? Share your favorite dagashi and wagashi in the comments below!