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- Jan. 16. 2025
If you’re a fan of fresh, vibrant fruits, Japan’s fruit desserts are a must-try. From strawberries to grapes, oranges, and apples, each fruit is carefully crafted into unique and beautiful desserts. Japan’s world-class fruit culture stems from advanced farming techniques and passionate farmers who create high-quality, seasonal produce. Here’s a look at three of Japan’s iconic fruit desserts to add to your travel itinerary: Japanese fruit parfaits, fruit sandwiches, and fruit daifuku.
The Japanese fruit parfait is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of seasonal fruits and a visual masterpiece. Originating from the early Showa period (1926–1989), fruit parlors became popular spots where fresh fruit was served as a luxurious treat. Today, fruit parfaits are beautifully layered with fruits, whipped cream, and ice cream, all stacked in a tall glass, creating an enchanting dessert. These parfaits change with the seasons, featuring fruits at their peak freshness, from sweet strawberries in winter to juicy peaches in summer.
Where to Try It: Fruits Parlor Goto (Asakusa, Tokyo)
A long-standing fruit parlor beloved in Asakusa. Originally started as a fruit shop, it offers around 10 types of parfaits at any given time, all made with seasonal fruits. The photo features items introduced in the August 2024 issue of Kateigaho: right to left, the pineapple parfait, today’s fruit parfait, and the watermelon parfait.
📍 2-15-4 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
The Japanese fruit sandwich is a surprisingly delightful Japanese dessert that combines fresh whipped cream with seasonal fruits between two soft slices of bread. Though simple, its balance of flavors and textures has won fans across Japan. Perfect as a snack or light meal, fruit sandwiches are also highly photogenic, with bright colors and neatly cut edges, that make them popular as take-out items and gifts.
Where to Try It: Fruits and Season (Ebisu, Tokyo)
This shop stands out by using a vegan-friendly soy milk-based cream and original soy milk bread, allowing the natural flavors of the fruits to shine. Here, you can enjoy creative twists on the classic fruit sandwich, with every bite showcasing the taste of seasonal fruits. The photo was taken in October 2021.
📍 1st Floor, Clean Palace, 1-10-1 Ebisu Nish, Shibuya City, Tokyo
A modern twist on the beloved wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets), fruit daifuku combines the chewy texture of mochi with fresh, seasonal fruit, such as strawberries, grapes, or kiwi. Some daifuku are crafted to resemble the fruits they encase, making them both a photogenic and delicious treat. These desserts are perfect with green tea –or even coffee–and offer a unique way to experience Japanese fruit culture. Availability often depends on the season, making each encounter with fruit daifuku a special discovery.
Where to Try It: Gion Ninigi (Kyoto)
Located in the heart of Kyoto, Gion Ninigi’s fruit daifuku showcases seasonal fruits wrapped in soft mochi, making them a delectable treat that embodies the beauty of Japanese seasonal sweets. Pictured here is the “Gion Pocchiri,” a delightful combination of strawberries, grapes, chestnuts, bananas, and blueberries, wrapped in a sweet-and-tangy Amaou strawberry paste and light whipped cream.
📍 347-115 Gion-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
When visiting Japan, don’t miss the chance to experience Japan’s unique fruit desserts which reflect the beauty of each season and the artistry of Japanese craftsmanship. From intricate fruit parfaits to charming fruit sandwiches and exquisite fruit daifuku, these sweets capture the essence of Japan’s fruit culture and culinary dedication. Each bite takes you on a journey through Japan’s world of fruit desserts, leaving a lasting impression long after you leave.
※Please note that the items featured in this article may not always be available, as offerings vary depending on the season and fruit harvest conditions.