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Leave it to the ingenious ideas of Japanese candy and toy companies like Kracie, Meiji, and Bandai to bring countless hours of hands-on fun for kids and parents alike. Known in Japan as “educational confectioneries,” the DIY candy kits below go far beyond colorful wrappers and extreme flavors, giving chefs-in-training the chance to explore colors, tastes, and textures while developing fine motor skills, practicing patience, and learning how to follow instructions. Keep reading to find out FROM JAPAN’s top Japanese candy kit picks that will have your kids cookin’ up a storm!

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What’s the secret to Japan’s world-famous cuisine: is it the indescribable umami of dashi, the delicately sticky texture of Japanese rice, or the subtle, clean flavor of fresh ingredients? Each of these culinary characteristics has a unique place in Japanese cuisine, but there is one category of ingredients that can take even the finest dish to new flavorful depths—Japanese condiments. Although Japan offers an extensive list of condiments, ranging from tangy and sweet to spicy, we’re highlighting eight of the country’s must-try seasonings and sauces that will expand your Japanese epicurean experience beyond simple soy sauce.

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