"The Sweet Rivalry That Divides a Nation: Mushroom or Bamboo Shoots?"

Hello everyone! Today, let’s dive into one of Japan’s most iconic snack battles: Kinoko no Yama (Mushroom Mountain) vs. Takenoko no Sato (Bamboo Shoots Village). If you’re reading this, chances are you belong to one of these two camps—or maybe you’re a rare neutral party who enjoys both. Either way, you’re in for a treat (pun intended)!

The Charm of Kinoko no Yama and Takenoko no Sato

• Kinoko no Yama
  These are mushroom-shaped snacks with a biscuit stem and a rich chocolate cap. Perfect for chocolate lovers who enjoy an indulgent, sweet experience!

• Takenoko no Sato
  These bamboo shoot-shaped snacks have a crunchy cookie base coated with chocolate. If you prefer a good balance of biscuit and chocolate, this one’s for you!

The Ripple Effect of Rising Prices and Cocoa Shortages

Let’s take a brief detour into reality. Did you know that recent climate changes and crop diseases have significantly impacted cocoa production? This has led to a surge in cocoa prices, which is now affecting Japan’s chocolate industry. For instance, in June 2024, the 12-pack version of Kinoko no Yama and Takenoko no Sato was replaced with an 8-pack. Yes, that’s a stealthy price increase...

Despite these challenges, we can still be grateful that these iconic snacks remain a staple in our lives.

Which Camp Am I In?

To be honest, I used to be a Takenoko no Sato fan when I had a sweeter tooth. But as I grew older (and maybe more refined?), I shifted to Kinoko no Yama because I now appreciate the richer chocolate flavor. Is this personal growth or just a change in taste? Who knows, but I’ll take it!

By the way, when I eat Kinoko no Yama, I always bite off the chocolate cap first. Anyone else do this? Come on, I know you’re out there!

A Fun Little Story

Did you know that there’s been an official Kinoko vs. Takenoko election? That’s right! The entire nation participated in a heated snack battle. But in true Japanese style, the results were wrapped up in a wholesome “Let’s support both snacks” message. Classic, right?

 

 

Are You Team Kinoko or Team Takenoko?

So, which side are you on? Let me know in the comments! If you’re on Team Kinoko, do you eat the chocolate cap first? And for Team Takenoko fans, how much do you love the crunchy texture? I’d love to hear your snack stories!

 

 

Conclusion

Both Kinoko no Yama and Takenoko no Sato have their unique charms. It’s tough to pick a side, but why not enjoy both? Grab a mixed pack, share it with friends, and experience the taste of harmony.

Until next time, happy snacking!

Category	Details
Ingredients	Sugar, Wheat Flour, Cocoa Mass, Vegetable Oils, Whole Milk Powder, Cocoa Butter, Lactose, Shortening, Condensed Milk Powder, Skim Milk Powder, Creaming Powder, Malt Extract, Salt, Yeast / Emulsifiers, Raising Agents, Flavors
Calories	Kinoko no Yama: 69 kcal per 12g (1 pack) Takenoko no Sato: 60 kcal per 11g (1 pack)
Allergens	Wheat, Milk, Soybeans, Eggs, Almonds