If you head to your local Starbucks coffee chain, what awesome Frappuccinos do you think you’ll come across? Some places might have a focus on showcasing regional goodness, while other locales may be experimenting with some crazy Japanese flavors (which if that’s what you’re in the mood for, make sure to check out Japanese snack subscription box TokyoTreat)!
But Japan is famous for its experimentation with unique drinks. And Starbucks Japan is no different. But with the very rotating flavors Japan has to offer, it’s a hard choice to pick exactly which is our favorite. So, we compromised and decided to choose 5 of our top Japan-exclusive Starbucks Frappuccinos!
1. Sakura Cherry Frappuccino
Nothing quite compares to Japan’s cherry blossom season. With all the excitement in the air, it’s important to recharge. And nothing is better than this Spring limited edition Sakura Cherry Frappuccino. The floral crushed ice drink is filled with a cherry jelly accent and topped with whipped cream and konpeito sugar stars.
Sakura is one of the most iconic Japanese flavors, and every year, seeing the new sakura-themed drinks that Starbucks offers is something everyone in Japan looks forward to each Spring!
2. Daigaku Imo Frappuccino
Daigaku Imo (or university potatoes) is a traditional dessert of candied sweet potatoes that is a popular side dish or dessert in Japanese cuisine, topped with black sesame seeds. Starbucks chose to honor this simple but must-try Japanese sweet potato dish in this tasty Fall exclusive drink.
Alongside the delicious caramel syrup you’ll find plenty of black sesame seeds sprinkled on top of the drink, faithfully representing every last detail of the beloved Japanese dish in a Starbucks form.
Just like Starbucks Japan's creations, there's no end to the interesting flavors available year-round in a TokyoTreat Japanese snack box!
3. Melty Chocolate Frappuccino
Chocolate fans, I hope you’re ready! This chocolaty drink is filled with delicious chocolate syrup. Released specifically for Valentines Day – always a big deal in Japan – this Starbucks Japan drink is popular with both men and women alike!
Topped with plenty of whipped cream, this drink is perfect for a moment of Winter indulgence that is unlike any other coffee drink you've tried before.
4. Berry Berry Rare Cheese Frappuccino
Ho Ho Ho! Starbucks Japan celebrated a very Merry Christmas with the Berry Berry Rare Cheese Frappuccino! Filled with plenty of berry sauce to set the Holiday mood in full swing, this cheesecake inspired drink is just what you need to give yourself some holiday cheer.
Topped off with plenty of whipped cream, it also has cute and crunchy pieces to give this limited edition Japanese Frappuccino some bite and texture as you sit back and enjoy the holiday season to the fullest extent.
5. Peach Frappuccino
When Summer comes around, nothing is more refreshing than fruity goodness! We fell in love with the Peach Frappuccino when it was available for a short time. With a little bit of added pulp to create a unique texture, this Frappuccino isn’t just all fruit flavors, thanks to its sweet cream topping that balances the taste profile out.
This Japanese Frappuccino is exactly what you need to wipe away any Summer fatigue brought on by the hot and humid temperatures.
Seasonality is Key!
Depending on the season, you can always find new and exciting Starbucks flavors to satisfy cravings based on that particular time of the year. And the new and exciting flavors never stop coming! The creative minds at Starbucks Japan are truly to be admired. Each year it seems that the drinks are becoming increasingly original and even based on the specialties and well-known flavor profiles of certain specific regions of Japan.
Starbucks Japan is also especially adept at combining Japanese flavors and traditional elements into their unique and modern drinks. What drinks and other refreshments do you think we’ll see coming in the upcoming Fall and Winter seasons this year? Let us know your thoughts or your recommendations in the comments!
Of course, if you want some seasonal Japanese snack goodness heading your way, why not take a look at TokyoTreat! Every month you’ll be able to discover new and exciting Japanese sweets, snacks and more with limited edition flavors and designs. Come check out what Japanese snack goodness will be heading to our subscribers this month!
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