Showing posts with label Japanese sweets and snacks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Japanese sweets and snacks. Show all posts

Thursday, May 7, 2026

9 Products I Purchased at Muji in Japan - Muji Haul

  Last summer, my husband and I spent time in Japan, and one of the things I was most excited about was visiting Muji. I’ve always loved their simple, well‑designed products, so stopping by a Muji store was high on my list. This time, I had the chance to explore locations in both Fukuoka and Nagasaki.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, I really recommend visiting a Muji store there. The selection feels broader, the prices are often more reasonable, and many items are especially popular among locals. Today, I’d love to share the Muji products I picked up during this trip.

    This time, I didn’t buy my usual Muji lotions because I had stocked up during my previous trip to Japan. I actually hadn’t expected that I would be returning last summer, so I still had plenty left at home. If you are interested in my previous Muji haul, you can take a look here


1. Urethane Foam 3 Layer Sponge (ウレタンフォーム三層スポンジ)

Sponges for Dish Wash
3 pieces for 299 yen
Urethane Foam 3 Layer Sponge (ウレタンフォーム三層スポンジ)
I picked up the Urethane Foam 3‑Layer Sponge (ウレタンフォーム三層スポンジ), which is one of Muji’s classic dish‑washing sponges. I’ve always liked Japanese dish sponges—they’re light, dry quickly, and somehow make everyday cleaning feel a little easier. This one has a firm core with softer layers on the outside, so it creates a good lather without feeling bulky. It’s simple, inexpensive, and works beautifully, which is exactly why I love Muji household items.
Urethane Foam 3 Layer Sponge (ウレタンフォーム三層スポンジ)




2. Tube Squeezer (チューブ絞り器)

3 pieces for 99 yen

Tube Squeezer (チューブ絞り器)

     I also picked up the Tube Squeezer (チューブ絞り器) for 99 yen. It’s such a simple little tool, but incredibly useful. You just slide it onto the end of a tube—toothpaste, hand cream, even wasabi—and it helps push out every last bit without much effort. I love these practical Muji items that quietly make daily routines easier. It’s lightweight, inexpensive, and one of those things you don’t realize you needed until you start using it.

Tube Squeezer (チューブ絞り器)





3. Portable Paper Napkin (携帯用ペーパーナプキン)

6 packs for 99 yen

Portable Paper Napkin (携帯用ペーパーナプキン)
     I also bought the Portable Paper Napkin (携帯用ペーパーナプキン), which came as a set of six packs for 99 yen. They’re thin, compact, and easy to slip into a small bag or pocket—perfect for travel days, quick snacks, or moments when you just need something handy. I like how lightweight they are, and the simple packaging feels very Muji. It’s one of those practical items that’s nice to have on hand, especially when you’re out and about in Japan.
Portable Paper Napkin (携帯用ペーパーナプキン)


Portable Paper Napkin (携帯用ペーパーナプキン)





4. Spectacles Wipes (メガネ拭き)

14 sheets for 80 yen

Spectacles Wipes (メガネ拭き)
     I also picked up the Spectacles Wipes (メガネ拭き), which come with 14 sheets for 80 yen. They’re packaged together in a slim, lightweight pouch that’s easy to slip into a small bag. The wipes are soft enough to clean glasses quickly, and they’re handy for moments when my sunglasses get smudged. It’s another simple Muji item that feels practical to keep on hand while traveling or running errands.




5. Mini Ramen Tom Yam Kung (ミニラーメン トムヤンクン味)

4 pieces for 150 yen

Mini Ramen Tom Yam Kung (ミニラーメン トムヤンクン味)
     I also bought my all‑time favorite Mini Ramen Tom Yam Kung (ミニラーメン トムヤンクン味), which comes in a pack of four for 150 yen. These little ramen bricks are perfect as a quick snack—you can enjoy them as‑is, like crunchy ramen chips, or add hot water for a light soup. The Tom Yam Kung flavor has a nice balance of sourness and gentle spice, and it’s fun to keep a few on hand for an easy treat. It’s one of those affordable Muji snacks that instantly brings back the feeling of being in Japan.

Mini Ramen Tom Yam Kung (ミニラーメン トムヤンクン味)





6. White Peach Jelly (白桃ゼリー 乳酸菌入り)

250 yen

White Peach Jelly (白桃ゼリー 乳酸菌入り)
     I also purchased the White Peach Jelly (白桃ゼリー 乳酸菌入り) for 250 yen. It has a soft, refreshing white‑peach flavor and contains 50 billion lactic‑acid bacteria, which can be supportive for overall gut health. The texture is light and easy to enjoy, almost like a small dessert you can eat anytime. I like that it feels both tasty and a little functional.





7. Chestnut Steamed Buns (栗まんじゅう)

6 pieces for 390 yen

Chestnut Steamed Buns (栗まんじゅう)
     I also purchased the Chestnut Steamed Buns (栗まんじゅう), which come in a pack of six for 390 yen. They’re small, soft buns with a mild sweetness and a comforting chestnut flavor. The texture is tender and slightly moist, making them easy to enjoy with tea or as a little afternoon snack. It’s one of those simple Japanese treats that feels nostalgic and satisfying.

Chestnut Steamed Buns (栗まんじゅう)


Chestnut Steamed Buns (栗まんじゅう)





8. Sweet Potato Cake (スイートポテトケーキ)

250 yen

Sweet Potato Cake (スイートポテトケーキ)
     I also purchased the Sweet Potato Cake (スイートポテトケーキ) for 250 yen. It has a soft, moist texture with a warm sweetness that feels very comforting. The flavor is simple but satisfying—just the natural taste of sweet potato without being too heavy. It’s the kind of small treat that pairs nicely with tea and makes a quiet moment feel a little cozier.
Sweet Potato Cake (スイートポテトケーキ)





9. Burdock Snack (素材を生かしたスナック ごぼう)

120 yen 

Burdock Snack (素材を生かしたスナック ごぼう)

       I also purchased the Burdock Snack (素材を生かしたスナック ごぼう) for 120 yen. These light, crispy snacks have a mild burdock aroma and a savory flavor that feels very Japanese. They’re not too salty, and the texture is airy enough that you can enjoy them without feeling heavy. It’s the kind of simple snack that pairs well with tea and makes a nice little break during the day.




     These are also my entries you might like.
Café & Meal MUJI

Shopping at Muji Yurakucho

7 Products I Purchased at Muji Store in Japan - Muji Haul

13 Muji Products I Purchased in Japan - Muji Haul

Which Muji Keshosui Should You Choose? - Muji Toning Water Sensitive Skin Care Series 
 
My Shopping List for Japanese Beauty Products - What I Want to Get in Japan

Top 10 Japanese Beauty Products Loved by Foreign Tourists in Japan

3 Best Japanese Facial Sheet Masks (No.1 Facial Sheet Mask on @cosme, Amazon Japan and Loft)  

3 Best Japanese Sunscreens with SPF50+ PA++++

3 Best Japanese Enzyme Powder Cleansers to Minimize Your Skin Pores

3 Best Affordable Japanese Facial Lotion, Keshosui (& My Favorite One + My Skincare Routine) 

7 Best Japanese Beauty Products Hall of Fame  

Top 5 Life-Changing Japanese Beauty Products   

10 Best Japanese Beauty Products on Amazon Japan, You Can Also Purchase Them at Drugstores in Japan 




     My entries related to Muji can be seen here.

     My entries related to beauty can be seen here.

     My entries related to Best Japanese Beauty Products can be seen here

     My entries related to Japan can be seen here.

     My entries related to Japan Haul can be seen here.


Thursday, November 20, 2025

What I Bought at Costco Japan: 16 Favorites

 


      As I mentioned in my previous entry, my husband and I visited Japan this summer—and as always, we made a stop at Costco. It’s become a tradition for us. Costco Japan offers a treasure trove of Japanese products you’d never find at U.S. branches. If you're curious, feel free to check out my earlier posts about our Costco Japan adventures.


💳 A Quick Tip for International Shoppers

If you're a Costco member, you can visit any Costco location worldwide. Just keep in mind:

  • Costco Japan only accepts MasterCard credit cards and cash

  • Costco U.S. accepts Visa credit cards and cash

      This time, I used my Capital One Quicksilver (MasterCard), which has 0% foreign transaction fees and earns 1.5% cashback on all purchases. For more travel tips like this, check out my post What You Should Take to Japan – Japan Travel Tips.



     Costco Japan Haul

     We actually visited Costco Japan twice this summer. On one of those trips, I mentioned to my sister that I’ve been taking supplements from Costco. As a healthcare professional, I gave her a few recommendations—she hadn’t taken any before. Her husband chimed in and suggested we all go together. Since her membership had expired, I brought her family along using mine.

It was a fun outing—part shopping spree, part mini family reunion. And today, I’m excited to share the 16 products I picked up during our Costco Japan visits!







1. Sushi, 48 Pieces (寿司ファミリー盛 48貫)

48 Pieces for 3,880 yen

(Tuna, Squid, Yellowtail, Shrimp, Salmon, Octopus, Seared Bonito, Negitoromaki, Tamago)

Sushi, 48 Pieces (寿司ファミリー盛 48貫)

      One of the main reasons I love visiting Costco in Japan is their incredibly fresh, high-quality sushi—at prices that feel almost too good to be true. This summer, we picked up a 48-piece sushi set for just 3,880 yen, which breaks down to about 54 cents per piece! We shared it with my family, and everyone was impressed by how plump, flavorful, and generously sized each piece was. From silky salmon to smoky seared bonito, every bite tasted like it came straight from a sushi counter. I’ll absolutely be buying this set again next time—it’s a staple in our Japan Costco tradition.




2. Custard Cream Croissant (カスタードクリーム クロワッサン 6個入り)

Croissants filled with custard cream 

6 Pieces for 1,298 yen

Custard Cream Croissant (カスタードクリーム クロワッサン 6個入り)

      While browsing the bakery section, we noticed a crowd gathering around these custard cream croissants—so naturally, we had to try them. Each croissant was enormous, yet surprisingly soft and airy, with a texture that reminded me of fluffy cake. The custard filling was light, creamy, and just sweet enough to feel indulgent without being overpowering.

      My husband and I could only manage a few pieces before sharing the rest with my sister’s family. They loved them so much, my sister ended up buying a pack for herself! If you spot these at Costco Japan, I highly recommend giving them a try—they’re a delightful treat and perfect for sharing.



3. Yamaya Mentai Mayonnaise Type (やまや めんたい マヨネーズ タイプ)

 Mayonnaise with spicy cod roe

 500g for 598 yen

Yamaya Mentai Mayonnaise Type (やまや めんたい マヨネーズ タイプ)

      This creamy, savory mayonnaise is infused with Yamaya mentaiko—a premium brand of Japanese marinated cod roe. I first discovered it during our 2019 Costco Japan trip and was instantly hooked. The flavor is rich, slightly spicy, and deeply umami—perfect for adding a Japanese twist to everyday meals.

     You can sometimes find the regular-sized version at local Japanese supermarkets, but Costco offers a generous 500g bottle at a great price.


Yamaya Mentai Mayonnaise Type (やまや めんたい マヨネーズ タイプ)

      My favorite way to enjoy it? Egg toast on thick-cut Japanese bread. The combo of fluffy bread, soft egg, and spicy mayo is pure comfort food. If you’re curious, check out my earlier post: How to Make an Easy Egg Toast (Japanese Sliced Bread + Japanese Mayonnaise = Deliciousness).

Egg and Yamaya Mentaiko Mayonnaise over Toast 




4. Fleup Baumkuchen (フルール しっとりなめらかおとなのバウム)

Baumkuchen

16 Pieces for 1,448 yen

Fleup Baumkuchen (フルール しっとりなめらかおとなのバウム)

      This was our first time trying Fleup’s baumkuchen, and it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. Each slice was soft, moist, and subtly sweet, with a texture that felt somewhere between sponge cake and pancake. It’s the kind of treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee—simple, satisfying, and easy to share.

      We ended up enjoying it with my family, and I’d definitely recommend picking up a box if you spot it at Costco Japan. It’s a gentle introduction to Japanese-style baumkuchen.




5. Hizatsuki Benishoga Senbei (ひざつき 紅ショウガせんべい)

Shredded Ginger Pickles Flavored Riced Crackers

10 packs (32g each pack) for 968 yen

Hisatsuki Benishoga Senbei (ひざつき 紅ショウガせんべい)

      Have you ever tried benishoga (紅ショウガ), the bright red shredded ginger pickles often used as a topping for gyudon, okonomiyaki, or yakisoba? I absolutely love it—it’s tangy, spicy, and adds a punch of flavor to so many Japanese dishes.

     So when I spotted these benishoga-flavored rice crackers at Costco Japan, I knew I had to try them. They were crispy, bold, and surprisingly true to the ginger pickle flavor—a perfect savory snack with a kick. My husband was especially impressed; he declared it his favorite find of the trip!

Hizatsuki Benishoga Senbei (ひざつき 紅ショウガせんべい)

       The box came with 10 individual packs, and honestly, I wish it had more. If you’re a fan of benishoga or curious to try something uniquely Japanese, this snack is a must.

Hizatsuki Benishoga Senbei (ひざつき 紅ショウガせんべい)




6. Gobochi (ゴボチ)

Burdock Chips

10 Packs (17g per pack) for 1,248 yen

Gobochi (ゴボチ)

        Have you ever tried burdock root, known as gobo in Japanese? I love its earthy, slightly nutty flavor, and often add it to miso soup for extra depth and fiber. So when I spotted Gobochi, a snack made from burdock chips, I knew it would be a hit.

Gobochi (ゴボチ)

      According to the package, Gobochi isn’t just for snacking—you can also use it as a topping for udon noodles or salads, or even mix it into rice balls for a flavorful twist.


Gobochi (ゴボチ)

       The box came with 10 small packs—perfect for snacking or sharing. As expected, each chip had a rich, savory gobo taste with a satisfying crunch. I honestly couldn’t get enough! If you enjoy root vegetables or want to try something uniquely Japanese, Gobochi is a delicious and wholesome choice.

Gobochi (ゴボチ)




7. Hinodeya x Kuzefuku Shiroebi Senbei (日の出屋製菓 x 久世福商店 しろえびせんべい)

Umami Dashi Flavored Shrimp Rice Crackers

20 packs (13g each pack) for 1,158 yen 

Hinodeya x Kuzefuku Shiroebi Senbei (日の出屋製菓 x 久世福商店 しろえびせんべい)

       This elegant snack instantly caught my eye—Kuzefuku Shoten is a well-known Japanese brand celebrated for its rich umami dashi products. These rice crackers are made with Toyama-grown rice and delicate white shrimp (shiroebi), then coated with Kuzefuku’s signature dashi powder for a deeply savory flavor.

Hinodeya x Kuzefuku Shiroebi Senbei (日の出屋製菓 x 久世福商店 しろえびせんべい)

       Each bite is crispy, aromatic, and layered with umami, making it a refined twist on traditional senbei. The 20 individually wrapped packs make it easy to share or savor slowly. If you’re curious about regional Japanese flavors, this is a beautiful way to taste Toyama’s coastal and culinary heritage.







8. Ashitamo Okura Ume Katsuo (アシタモ オクラ梅かつお)

Japanese Plum Pickle Flavored Okura Chips

11 Packs (18.5g per pack) for 1,458 yen


Ashitamo Okura Ume Katsuo (アシタモ オクラ梅かつお)

      This was one of the most unique snacks in our haul—okra chips seasoned with ume (Japanese plum pickles) and katsuobushi (bonito flakes). The texture was a fun surprise: crispy on the outside, yet retaining that sticky, slightly slimy okra feel that’s so familiar in Japanese cooking.

      I especially loved the bright, tangy ume flavor, which balanced beautifully with the savory depth of bonito. Even my mother-in-law was impressed—she said it was one of her favorites! If you’re open to adventurous textures and bold Japanese flavors, this snack is definitely worth trying.

Ashitamo Okura Ume Katsuo (アシタモ オクラ梅かつお)

Ashitamo Okura Ume Katsuo (アシタモ オクラ梅かつお)




9. Cleat 3 Shurui No Imo Kenpi, 3 Kinds of Imo Kenpi (クリート 3種類の芋けんぴ)

Crispy Japanese Sweet Potato Fries

11 Packs (65g each) for 1,288 yen 

5 Packs of Regular Imo Kenpi
3 Packs of Salted Finely Cut Imo Kenpi 
3 Packs of Brown Sugar Coated Finely Cut Imo Kenpi

Cleat 3 Shurui No Imo Kenpi, 3 Kinds of Imo Kenpi (クリート 3種類の芋けんぴ)

       This was a repeat purchase for me—I first bought this imo kenpi set at Costco Japan in 2019 and again in 2022, and I couldn’t resist picking it up once more this summer. The large bag includes three delicious varieties of crispy Japanese sweet potato fries.

Cleat 3 Shurui No Imo Kenpi, 3 Kinds of Imo Kenpi (クリート 3種類の芋けんぴ)

      Each type has its own charm, and the variety makes it fun to share and compare. With 11 individually wrapped packs, it’s also a perfect souvenir to bring home and share with friends and family. Sweet, salty, and nostalgic—this snack never disappoints.




10. ALLIE GEL UV EX (アリー クロノビューティ ジェルUV EX)

Sunscreen

SPF50+ PA++++

Super Waterproof

2 Tubes (90g each tube) for 3,680 yen

ALLIE GEL UV EX (アリー クロノビューティ ジェルUV EX)

       I’m a huge fan of Japanese sunscreens—they offer serious UV protection while feeling lightweight, non-sticky, and breathable on the skin. Every time I visit Japan, I stock up on sunscreen products, and this time I chose ALLIE GEL UV EX for its beach-friendly ingredients and super waterproof formula.

ALLIE GEL UV EX (アリー クロノビューティ ジェルUV EX)

            I plan to wear it when swimming at the beach, and I’ve already shared one of the two tubes with my coworker. She was amazed by how light and smooth it felt—she’s now a fan too! Honestly, once you experience the texture and performance of Japanese sunscreen, it’s hard to go back to anything else.

ALLIE GEL UV EX (アリー クロノビューティ ジェルUV EX)




11. Kyo Miyarisan, Strong Miyarisan (強ミヤリサン)

Probiotics

1,200 tablets for 5,498 yen 

Kyo Miyarisan, Strong Miyarisan (強ミヤリサン)

      This year, I’ve been especially interested in probiotics—they help balance gut bacteria, improve digestion, reduce harmful microbes, and support nutrient absorption and immune health. Before our Japan trip, I researched which Japanese probiotic to buy and ultimately chose Kyo Miyarisan, a well-known brand with positive reviews, especially among people managing autoimmune conditions like palmoplantar pustulosis.

      I purchased it for my husband, who’s had chronic dermatitis of unknown cause for over 20 years. He’s been taking three tablets, three times daily, and we’ve noticed a gradual but encouraging improvement. It feels like his immune system is finally finding balance, and we’re hopeful this trend continues.

Kyo Miyarisan, Strong Miyarisan (強ミヤリサン)

      You can find Kyo Miyarisan at many drugstores across Japan, but I found the best price at Costco Japan, with Amazon Japan coming in second. If you’re exploring Japanese health products, this one is worth considering.
Kyo Miyarisan, Strong Miyarisan (強ミヤリサン)





12. Asahi EBIOS Seichoyaku (アサヒ エビオス 整腸薬)

Brewer's Yeast + Probiotics

1,008 tablets for 2,548 yen

Asahi EBIOS Seichoyaku (アサヒ エビオス 整腸薬)

      My primary care physician once told me that probiotics play an important role in women’s health, and that even one to three strains can be effective. Since then, I’ve made probiotics part of my daily routine. I started with Shin Biofermin (新ビオフェルミン) and now I’m taking Ebios Seichoyaku (エビオス整腸薬), which combines brewer’s yeast and probiotics.

      Both have worked well for me, especially in helping regulate bowel movements. Although the recommended dosage is six tablets, three times daily (18 tablets total), I personally take just two tablets in the evening, and it still works for me.

Asahi EBIOS Seichoyaku (アサヒ エビオス 整腸薬)

        Everyone’s body responds differently to probiotics, so it’s important to find the one that suits you.

Asahi EBIOS Seichoyaku (アサヒ エビオス 整腸薬)





13. Nakatani UV ALL WEATHER UMBRELLA (中谷 遮光遮熱折り畳み傘)

UV Protection Umbrella

UPF50+

Shading Rate 100%

968 yen

Nakatani UV ALL WEATHER UMBRELLA (中谷 遮光遮熱折り畳み傘)

       Since I visited Japan in the summer, I knew I needed a UV protection umbrella—something I used to rely on when I lived there years ago. I’ve learned that for optimal UV and heat protection, the outer fabric should be light-colored to reflect sunlight, while the inner lining should be black to absorb and block rays.

Nakatani UV ALL WEATHER UMBRELLA (中谷 遮光遮熱折り畳み傘)

       At Costco Japan, I spotted this Nakatani UV umbrella and bought it without hesitation. I used it every single day during my trip, and it truly made a difference. It felt like I was walking under a personal patch of shade—cooler, more comfortable, and protected from the intense summer sun. For under 1,000 yen, it was one of the most practical and effective purchases of the season.



  

14. Uji Matcha Soft Serve (宇治抹茶ソフトクリーム)

Matcha Soft Serve

300 yen

Uji Matcha Soft Serve (宇治抹茶ソフトクリーム)

       Costco Japan offers Uji Matcha Soft Serve at their food court for a limited time, and we were lucky to catch it during our summer visit. I had quite a few matcha soft serves while in Japan, and while this one wasn’t the absolute best, it was refreshing, creamy, and pleasantly bitter-sweet—a solid contender, especially considering the price was the cheapestof all.

      If you’re craving a quick matcha fix while shopping, this soft serve is a fun and affordable treat.




15. Cold Brewed Iced Coffee (コールドブリューコーヒー)

Cold Brewed Coffee

150 yen

Cold Brewed Iced Coffee (コールドブリューコーヒー)

       As coffee lovers—especially fans of simple black coffee—we couldn’t pass up the cold brewed iced coffee at the Costco Japan food court. At just 150 yen, it was an easy choice. The flavor was smooth, refreshing, and pleasantly bold, making it a satisfying pick-me-up during a hot summer shopping day.

      I hope Costco US also starts serving cold brew coffee at a reasonable price in their food court—this one was such a treat!




16. Salmon Poke Rolls (サーモンポキロール)

Salmon Rolls

700 yen

Salmon Poke Rolls (サーモンポキロール)

       For the first time, I spotted Salmon Poke Rolls at the Costco Japan food court and knew I had to try one. The roll featured generous cuts of fresh salmon and was labeled as Hawaiian-style poke, which added a fun international twist to the menu.

      The salmon was plump, flavorful, and satisfying, and the overall roll felt fresh and well-balanced. I really enjoyed it—and at 700 yen, it was a tasty and affordable way to mix up our food court favorites.

Salmon Poke Rolls (サーモンポキロール)




        These are my entries you might like.

■Costco Japan Haul - What I Purchased at Costco in Japan (2022)

■What Do They Sell at Costco in Japan? 

■10 Products I Purchased at Costco in Japan 

■All Beauty Products I Purchased in Japan in 2022

■Japanese Snack and Candy Haul - 9 Products I Purchased in Japan 

■7 Products I Purchased at Muji Store in Japan - Muji Haul 

■My Shopping List for Japanese Groceries - What I Want to Get in Japan

■My Shopping List for Japanese Beauty Products - What I Want to Get in Japan 

■8 Japanese Snacks and Candies I Purchased in Japan - Japan Haul

■Japanese Grocery Haul - 7 Products He Purchased at Kitano Ace in Japan

■Don Quijote (Donki) Haul - What He Got in Japan 

■Japanese Lawson Convenience Store Bread Haul

■What He Got at Drugstore in Japan - Haul 

■Top 10 Products You Should Buy at Japanese Supermarkets (for Beginners!)

■My Top 15 Must Eat Foods in Japan - My Favorite Japanese Foods

■Top 10 Most Popular Japanese Foods

■5 Best Delicious Souvenirs from Fukuoka

■Top 3 My Favorite Delicious Souvenirs from Osaka 

■My Top 10 Favorite Japanese Snacks

■My Top 10 Favorite Japanese Sweets


     My entries related to Costco in Japan can be seen here.

     My entries related to Best Japanese Beauty Products can be seen here.
 

     My entries related to Japan can be seen here.

     My entries related to beauty can be seen here.

     My entries related to Japan Haul can be seen here.

     You can find my beauty entries by categories from here.