The “Dagashi” refers to “Japanese cheap candies”, it is inexpensive candies manufactured mainly for children. It is not a high-class confectionery that is served at tea ceremonies or used as a gift, nor is it a confectionery that is sold in ordinary supermarkets and elsewhere. In the Showa period (1926-1989), after World War II, there were “Dagashi-Ya” stores to sell these “dagashi” all over Japan. There were the several stores in each elementary and junior high school district. They used to be called “social place for children”. There were also some toys and magazines for sale, so children would gather there every day. Their prices are usually in the range of what you can buy with coins (\5～\100 in today’s value). Most of them were available for about \30 or less. Showa’s Children used to moan and groan over the coins their parents gave them and visit “Dagashi-Ya” shop, thinking about which “candy” to eat within their limited budget. There were some candies with lottery, if you win, you get another one. Or you can get some extra toys as prizes. Each of these “dagashi” candies were manufactured by specialized manufacturers scattered across the country. In spite of this, the lineup of candies was relatively uneven compared to any other “Dagashi-Ya” shops in Japan. Well, that’s why there was such a nationwide demand for “dagashi” candies.

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However, as the times changed from the Showa period to the Heisei period, the number of “Dagashi-Ya” shops rapidly decreased. After the period of high economic growth, the whole world in Japan became, in a sense, bored and extravagant… As a result, the demand for “dagashi” candies decreased. However, the demand for these “dagashi” candies did not disappear. It would be because that the unique simplicity and addictive feeling of the products were indeed a product that had been thoroughly researched and made for children. In fact, they are all pretty high quality products for their price, right? It is really true. Even today, you can buy some of these “dagashi” candies at supermarkets and convenience stores. In some large shopping malls, there are stores that specialize in recreating “Dagashi-Ya” shops. Well, the adults of today who were still children then can enjoy nostalgic shopping there…(￣▽￣;)www Oh, and of course, it’s a place where today’s kids can have a good time, too.

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Although there are very few, there are still some “Dagashi-Ya” shops left today. It’s a social gathering place for local children and a special place for adults who want to feel nostalgic and come from far away. If you see them, please visit them. Fun more time!!