Japanese Festival Food: Cotton Candy (Wataame)

Among the many colorful treats found at Japanese festivals, wataame is one of the most eye-catching. Known as cotton candy or candy floss in English, this sweet snack is made by spinning melted sugar into delicate strands that are gathered into a light, fluffy cloud.

Wataame has been a festival favorite for generations and is especially popular with children. One of its most distinctive features in Japan is the large decorative bag it is sold in. (But you can also get it on a stick). Festival stalls often use bags printed with popular anime characters, game mascots, or children's cartoon favorites, making the treat feel even more special.

Despite its impressive size, wataame is surprisingly light. The airy texture melts almost instantly in the mouth, leaving behind a simple sugary sweetness. Watching the candy being spun is often just as enjoyable as eating it.