Among Miyazaki’s many traditional sweets, one relatively new creation has become a major hit: Cheese Manju. It is now firmly established as a local specialty of the prefecture and is particularly popular with women.
This distinctive confection consists of a crisp, lightly baked pastry shell filled with cream cheese instead of the traditional sweet bean paste. Although the combination of Japanese manju and cheese may initially seem unusual, this unexpected pairing is precisely what has made it so popular.
One of the secrets behind its refreshing taste is the use of plant-based cheese rather than animal-based cheese. This gives the filling a lighter, less rich flavor and makes the sweet easy to enjoy.
It is said that the popularity of Cheese Manju first spread among flight attendants working for airlines that stopped in Miyazaki. The confection has since become known throughout Japan.
This distinctive Miyazaki-born souvenir has won over even discerning travelers. If you visit the prefecture, be sure to try this popular sweet that brings together Japanese and Western influences.