When you think of spring in Japan, sakura (cherry blossoms) come to mind! As the season of hanami (cherry blossom viewing) approaches, a variety of limited-time sakura-themed products appear every year. From sakura sweets and drinks to cosmetics and lifestyle goods, let's explore the must-try spring exclusives and the stores where you can find them.
1. Where to Enjoy Sakura Sweets & Drinks
Starbucks Japan's Sakura Flavors
Every year, Starbucks Japan launches its iconic “SAKURA Series”, featuring beautifully designed pink packaging. Sakura lattes and sakura Frappuccinos are exclusive to Japan and are highly anticipated each year. What new flavors will 2025 bring?
Sakura Sweets at Convenience Stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart)
Japan’s major convenience stores also roll out limited-time sakura sweets:
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7-Eleven: “Sakura Mont Blanc,” “Sakura Anpan” (sweet bean paste-filled bread)
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Lawson: “Sakura Dorayaki” (red bean pancake), “Sakura Roll Cake”
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FamilyMart: “Sakura Milk Pudding,” “Sakura Cream Puff”
These are easy to grab and perfect for cherry blossom picnics!
Traditional Japanese Wagashi Shops
Famous wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) stores offer seasonal delights such as sakura mochi, sakura manju, and sakura dorayaki. If you’re visiting Kyoto or Asakusa, be sure to check out their exclusive spring wagashi collections.
2. Sakura-Themed Cosmetics & Lifestyle Goods
Sakura-Scented Body Care & Fragrances
Enjoy the fresh and floral scent of cherry blossoms with sakura-scented hand creams and body lotions:
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LUSH: Sakura bath bombs and shower gels
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L'Occitane: “Cherry Blossom” series (hand creams, perfumes, and more)
Sakura-Designed Tableware & Accessories
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MUJI: Sakura-patterned mugs and plates
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100 Yen Shops (Daiso, Seria): Sakura-themed paper plates, cutlery, and picnic goods
These items bring the essence of spring into your home and outdoor gatherings!
3. The Best Time to Buy Sakura Items & Where to Find Them
When to Buy? Sales Period Guide
Sakura-themed products typically hit the shelves between late January and early April, but the most popular ones sell out quickly. Starbucks and convenience store sweets are usually available from mid-February to mid-March.
Can You Buy Them Online?
Many sakura goods are now available online:
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Amazon & Rakuten: Sakura-flavored snacks, sakura tea, and sakura liqueur
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Official Online Stores (Starbucks, L'Occitane, etc.): A chance to grab limited-edition items
Conclusion
Spring in Japan is filled with sakura-themed treats and goods, allowing you to experience the beauty of cherry blossoms in many ways! Whether it’s through a sakura latte, a floral-scented body product, or charming seasonal accessories, don’t miss out on these limited-time exclusives. Check them out before they’re gone!
