If you have sampled the traditional sweets of Japan, you might have been surprised how different the tastes – and ingredients that include sweet potatoes, sweet beans and rice - are from Western sweets. These sweets are not only savory, but generally extremely fancy and beautiful. They usually are served with tea and are used for temple ceremonies, offerings and gifts. They also have a deeper meaning to the Japanese. The traditional sweets supply nourishment to the heart, according to Mitsuo Yabu, managing director of Traditional Japanese Sweets Association.

https://okinawa.stripes.com/food-drink/okinawan-mainland-japan-traditional-sweets-real-treat

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