Taste of Spring: Sakura-Colored Foods!

As spring approaches, we start seeing light pink-colored foods popping up everywhere! It’s a sign that sakura season is just around the corner, and I couldn’t be more excited—I love this time of year!

Welcome to From Japan with Flavor! This is where I share unique Japanese foods, historical food culture, food trends, and whatever I’m currently exploring—all straight from Japan!

Today, I’m sharing some adorable sakura-colored foods you can find during this season, from delicate pink soba to sweet sakura-flavored treats! If you’re in Japan during sakura season, don’t miss out on these limited-time foods!

Sakura Soba Noodles

First up—Sakura Soba! These beautiful pink soba noodles are made by kneading finely chopped salted cherry blossom leaves into the dough, giving them a delicate floral aroma and a light pink color.

The package comes wrapped in soft pink paper, making it feel extra special. Inside, you’ll find the sakura-infused soba noodles along with a soup base (mentsuyu) to complete the dish.

To enjoy them, I made a simple zaru soba (cold soba served with dipping sauce). The light pink noodles looked so pretty on the plate, and the subtle sakura fragrance made it feel like a true taste of spring!

Sakura Desserts at Japanese 7-Eleven

Japanese convenience stores always have fresh and delicious food, and during spring, they’re filled with pink-colored sakura treats! Among them, 7-Eleven’s seasonal desserts stood out the most, so I had to try them.

Here are some treats I picked up (from the top left): Sakura Milk Pudding, Sakura & Uji Matcha Parfait, and Spring Three-Color Mochi.

I tried the Sakura & Uji Matcha Parfait, and it was so satisfying! The bottom had three layers of different mousse, topped with chewy dango, jelly, whipped cream, and a small pancake. Every bite was a mix of textures and flavors—so delicious!

Sakura Manjyu

I found these beautiful sakura manjyu at a souvenir shop! Manjyu is a traditional Japanese sweet made of soft, fluffy dough filled with sweet red bean paste.

This sakura version has a delicate pink color and a subtle floral aroma, making it perfect for spring. If you love classic Japanese sweets, this is a must-try during sakura season, pair well with green tea for sure!

Best Spots for Sakura in Tokyo

If you’re in Tokyo during sakura season, you’re in for a real treat! These spots are the best places to witness the breathtaking cherry blossoms in full bloom!