The History of Japanese Snack Culture: From the Edo Period to Today

Introduction: Why Japanese Snacks Are More Than Just Food

In Japan, snacks are not just something to eat between meals—they are deeply connected to daily life, fond memories, and the culture itself. From nostalgic childhood treats to beautifully packaged seasonal sweets, Japanese snacks have long captured the hearts of people both in Japan and abroad. But what makes them so unique, and where did it all begin?

To find the answer, we need to go back in time and explore the roots of Japan’s snack culture. This article traces the story of Japanese snacks from the Edo period to today, uncovering their history, meaning, and evolution.

Edo Period: The Origins of Oyatsu Culture

In the Edo period (1603–1868), most people in Japan ate only two main meals a day—one in the morning and one in the evening. To bridge the long gap between meals, people developed the habit of eating something small in the early afternoon.

This time of day, around 2 p.m., was called "yatsudoki," which means "the eighth hour" in the old Japanese time system. This is the origin of the word "oyatsu," which today simply means "snack."

At the time, white sugar was expensive, so people used brown sugar, syrup, and rice-based ingredients to make simple sweets. Puffed rice crackers, ohagi (sweet rice balls with red bean paste), and roasted soybeans were some of the typical snacks.

These humble yet comforting treats mark the beginning of what we now call Japanese snack culture.

Meiji Era: Western Influences and Innovation

During the Meiji era (1868–1912), Japan opened up to the outside world, and Western sweets like caramel and chocolate began to appear.

These new flavors were quickly adapted into the world of Japanese snacks. For example, chocolate products were often wrapped in cute packaging or included small prizes, turning the act of snacking into a playful experience.

Western influence introduced new tastes, but Japan made them its own—adding creativity, surprise, and a sense of fun.

Showa Era: The Golden Age of Dagashi

The Showa era (1926–1989) was a golden age for traditional Japanese snacks known as "dagashi."

Inexpensive and imaginative, dagashi were a beloved part of daily life for children. Snacks like Choco Bat or Umaibo often came with a small prize or a chance to win another one—making snack time a thrilling experience.

Dagashi shops were more than just places to buy sweets. They were social hubs filled with arcade games, spinning wheels, and even street performers. Kids gathered after school not just to snack, but to connect, laugh, and play.

In this way, dagashi culture helped children learn to make choices, interact with others, and explore their communities.

Heisei to Reiwa: Endless Variety and Experience

From the 1990s onward, Japanese snacks became even more diverse. Flavor options expanded far beyond sweet—now including salty, sour, spicy, and umami-rich varieties.

Take Umaibo, for example. This puffed corn snack is available in unique flavors like mentaiko (spicy cod roe), corn soup, takoyaki, and cheese. Regional and seasonal variations also add excitement, and snack makers frequently introduce limited-time editions.

Convenience stores made snacks more accessible than ever, but many still visit small dagashi shops in search of nostalgic, old-school experiences.

Why Snacks Feel Uniquely Japanese

Japanese snack culture is shaped by a combination of time, taste, and togetherness:

Time: The tradition of eating a small snack at a specific time (yatsudoki) remains rooted in Japanese life.

Taste: Flavors go beyond sweet—featuring seaweed, soy sauce, miso, and other ingredients deeply connected to Japanese cuisine.

Togetherness: Dagashi shops acted as neighborhood gathering spots for generations of children.

This combination turns a simple snack into a small cultural experience.

How the World Sees Japanese Snacks

From an international perspective, Japanese snacks often feel playful, surprising, and even strange—in the best way.

While Western snacks usually focus on chocolate, chips, or gummy candy, Japanese varieties include things like takoyaki-flavored crackers or senbei with fish bones. It’s not uncommon to hear visitors say, “This is so weird—but so good!”

The range and boldness of Japanese snacks give people from other cultures a fun and memorable way to connect with Japan.

Snacks as Cultural Storytellers

From Edo-period rice treats to Showa-era dagashi and today’s flavor-packed innovations, Japanese snacks have continued to evolve alongside society—while always retaining their sense of warmth and play.

At TOKYOBITES, we aim to capture that history and spirit in every box we deliver. Snacks are more than just food—they’re memories, stories, and connections, ready to be shared.

We hope you’ll taste the culture, the joy, and the heart behind every bite.