Customs
 

Does Japan restrict "snacks" brought into the country? or instant coffee? I would like to bring these in, but don't see anything on their customs website restricting these.

I really think you will be fine. if you have sealed snacks and instant coffee in your checked luggage you should be fine.

I brought 10 peanut butter crackers and Kind bars in my luggage & daypack. No questions, no problems.

I appreciate your sharing your experience.

We have taken snacks many times, some not even in sealed packets but in ziplock bags. No fresh fruits and vegetables, no raw meats.

Not an issue at all. For the last couple of trips I brought in coffee bags as well (like tea bags, but with coffee - I really don't care for instant), but next time I might not - many hotel rooms have refrigerators, and it is easy to buy refrigerated coffee in supermarkets and convenience stores (about 150 yen/liter) and just heat it up. I highly recommend you try some Japanese snacks while in Japan - there is a huge assortment to choose from, and it's another way to experience the country.

The only food I bring is oatmeal....I haven't found it in the Japanese supermarkets I have gone to and I love my oatmeal, plain no sugar or anything else - I stay in places with a kitchenette so am able to cook....
As far as coffee I have found the individual packets that you place over a cup and pour in boiling water to make delicious coffee. I buy them in Japanese supermarkets but they sell small packages in coffee shops like Doutor's, etc....

Good to know. I'm sure I'll try many things when I'm there.

I hope that includes their beer. ;)

I just returned from a trip to Kyoto. I took granola bars, mixed nuts and crackers in my carry-on. No problems at all.

Although I love trying different foods especially snacks during my travels abroad, I feel comfort in carrying my own. The reason being sometimes the ingredients or some spices or meats used in products do not agree easily with digestive system.

So, I do try them in small quantity and if I like the taste I enjoy them fully. If not, then I have my own little bites to enjoy in between meals.

I loved Pokey sticks in Japan---like long pretzel sticks with a variety of coatings such as chocolate, strawberry, pistachio etc. I brought some back for the grand kids too.
There are amazing bakeries with wonderful products to try. Have fun and enjoy your trip.

Thanks!

We brought 10 packs of instant noodles placed in luggage. It was fine