Japanese convenience stores, known as “conbini,” are always a place for new discoveries. This time, we’re introducing a very unique new candy from Lawson, one of Japan’s major convenience store chains.
On Tuesday, December 2, 2025, the confectionery company Kanro, famous for its candies and gummies, will release “Kari Kari Ume Crunch” exclusively at Lawson stores nationwide in Japan. The product’s greatest appeal, as its name suggests, is its addictively “kari kari,” or crunchy, texture.
Why is the “Crunchy Texture” Craze Happening Now?
Recently, “ASMR videos” have become hugely popular on social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube in Japan. ASMR refers to the pleasant sensation or reaction people feel from auditory or visual stimuli. In particular, “chewing sounds” are one of the most popular genres.
Among these, the satisfying chewing sound of “Kari Kari Ume” (crunchy pickled plum), a traditional Japanese pickle, has become a trend, especially attracting attention from the younger generation. Kanro’s existing product, “Gummy-tzel,” also gained fame in ASMR videos for its unique texture, but this new product was developed with a specific focus on the texture of “Kari Kari Ume.”
Previously, most plum-flavored candies were mainstream products that either replicated the taste of umeboshi (pickled plums) itself or were intended for salt replenishment during the summer. However, the new thing about “Kari Kari Ume Crunch” is that it is made with a special focus on the “joy of chewing” and the “sound.”
A Unique Two-Layer Structure Creates the Ultimate “Kari Kari” Texture
The secret to the texture of “Kari Kari Ume Crunch” lies in its unique two-layer structure.
The inside of the candy features freeze-dried chips of “Kishu Nanko Ume,” a particularly famous high-end brand of plum in Japan, mixed with puffs to create a light, crunchy texture. The outside is then coated with a hard candy that contains even more puffs. The combination of these two layers creates a fun and new bite that feels just like eating a real crunchy pickled plum.
The flavor isn’t just sour, either. Based on the plum flavor, kombu (kelp) extract, shiso (perilla), and rock salt are added to create a deep flavor where the “umami,” so valued in Japanese food culture, spreads throughout your mouth. This exquisite balance of flavors and the crunchy texture are the source of its charm, making it hard to stop once you start eating.
“Exam season” is about to begin in Japan. For the many students studying late into the night, a crisp bite of this candy will be a great mental break. It’s also perfect for working adults who are busy toward the end of the year and need a little refreshment.
Product Overview
Product Name: Kari Kari Ume Crunch
Release Date: Tuesday, December 2, 2025
Reference Price: 210 yen (tax included)
Contents: 32g (including individual wrappers)
Sales Area: Lawson stores nationwide in Japan (some stores may not carry the product)
Features: A crunchy crunch candy meant to be enjoyed by chewing, with the umami of plum and kombu extract spreading in your mouth.
“Kanro,” A Long-Beloved Confectionery Maker in Japan
Kanro Co., Ltd., the developer of this unique product, is a historic confectionery company founded in 1912. They have created numerous hit products, starting with the “Kanro Ame” which is also the company’s namesake, the pioneering “Kenko Nodo Ame” throat lozenge, the “Kin no Milk” which boasts the No. 1 sales in the milk candy market, and “Pure Gummy,” which leads the gummy market in Japan.
This is a candy with a new texture and flavor that could only have been created by Kanro, a company that has been brightening the snack time of people in Japan for many years.
For more detailed company information and other products, please visit their official website.
https://www.kanro.co.jp/
https://kanro.jp/
When you visit a convenience store in Japan, be sure to look for this “Kari Kari Ume Crunch.” A new kind of snack experience, unique to Japan and born from the ASMR trend, is waiting for you. Its pleasant texture and deep flavor are sure to become a fond memory of your trip.
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