Of course, you can't miss all the limited-edition snacks in Japan! This time, I found a rather unusual amazake-flavored Pocky, and just seeing the flavor made me want to buy it and give it a try! Amazake is a traditional Japanese drink with a subtle rice aroma and natural sweetness. Paired with Pocky's crispy biscuit sticks, it has a distinctive flavor. If you're used to classic flavors like chocolate and strawberry, trying a special flavor once in a while feels fresh! If you like collecting limited-edition Japanese snacks, keep an eye out for it. It's great to buy for yourself or as a souvenir, and it was a nice little surprise to discover while traveling!
Pocky Chocolate | Review by Gina C
Other Reviews by Gina C
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Oronamin C Drink
Since its introduction in 1965, this national carbonated nutritional drink has sold over 35 billion bottles in Japan. It contains the vitamin C equivalent to 11 lemons, as well as B2, B6, essential amino acids for building the body, and honey.
When I saw Oronamin C this time, I couldn't resist buying one to try. The bottle is small and cute and fits perfectly in your hand. It's great for when you're tired from walking around or want something a little different to drink while traveling.
When you open it, there's a light citrus aroma. It tastes sweet and tangy, with plenty of carbonation. It's refreshing with a slight kick, and it leaves a sweet taste in your mouth afterward. The bottle may be small, but the flavor really stands out. It tastes even better ice-cold!
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Oshino Hakkai – The 8 Springs of Oshino
Oshino Hakkai is the collective name for Mt. Fuji’s 8 natural ponds, Deguchi-ike, Okama-ike, Sokonashi-ike, Choshi-ike, Waku-ike, Nigori-ike, Kagami-ike and Shobu-ike. Once a former lake, the area has dried up and formed the 8 spring-sourced ponds that remain today.
This is a very famous tourist attraction near Mount Fuji, known for its crystal-clear spring ponds. It’s also a great place to enjoy Mount Fuji’s natural scenery. Walking into the area feels like entering a small village filled with traditional Japanese charm, surrounded by Japanese-style buildings, thatched roofs, and flowing streams. The whole setting is very distinctive.
Oshino Hakkai is actually made up of eight spring ponds. The water comes from snowmelt on Mount Fuji, which emerges after being filtered through layers of earth over a long period of time. As a result, the water is so clear and transparent that you can clearly see the bottom of the ponds. In the sunlight, the water takes on a beautiful blue-green color, and together with the surrounding natural scenery, it’s truly beautiful! Standing by the ponds, you can’t help but marvel at the wonders of nature. Even casual photos have the atmosphere of the Japanese countryside.
Besides viewing the spring ponds, there are also quite a few shops nearby selling local specialties, where you can buy snacks and souvenirs while strolling around and enjoying the relaxed countryside atmosphere. If the weather is good, you may also get to see Mount Fuji rising behind the village. The snow-covered summit paired with the traditional Japanese buildings makes for a very charming view. However, Mount Fuji is often obscured by clouds, so seeing the entire mountain really takes a bit of luck!
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SATUDORA Tanukikoji Daio Building Store
SATUDORA Tanukikoji Daio Building Store is a spacious two-story store located on a corner in Tanukikoji 5-chome, part of Sapporo’s famous covered shopping arcade. It's within walking distance of Sapporo Station, Odori Station, and Susukino Station. As the arcade is covered, it’s also easy to visit on rainy or snowy days. Its convenient location also makes it an ideal stop before or after sightseeing or a meal.
I think when visiting Hokkaido, besides enjoying the snowy scenery and exploring Otaru and downtown Sapporo, you can also set aside some time to shop at a drugstore. Especially during the last few days of your trip, you can pick up any skincare products and souvenirs you still want to buy. However, the product selection, prices, and promotions may vary by location, so it’s worth comparing them a little before buying to find items you like at a good price.
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