Grand Castella, a Taiwanese castella brand operating in eight countries worldwide, is bringing back its "Sakura An Habutae Mochi Castella" for a limited period from February 27 (Friday) to April 5 (Sunday), 2026. The seasonal treat sold out at multiple event venues last year after drawing attention in the media. Its return is part of a series of initiatives themed around "Japan-Taiwan friendship" to mark the brand's 5th anniversary since launching in Japan.
A Spring Japanese Sweet Capturing the Fragrance of Sakura
The Sakura An Habutae Mochi Castella features a moist, fluffy sakura-flavored castella base with premium habutae mochi and fragrant sakura an (sakura bean paste) kneaded into the dough. Salted pickled cherry blossoms on top add a gentle hint of saltiness, creating a balanced interplay of sweet and savory. As soon as it hits the tongue, the soft aroma of sakura and the supple, yielding texture of the habutae mochi blend together in a new sensory experience — one that truly embodies the feeling of spring.
The World's First Mochi-Filled Castella That Captivated Media Last Year
Kneading habutae mochi directly into castella dough is an innovative technique found nowhere else in the world. Even after baking and cooling, the castella retains a soft texture that stretches gently and melts in the mouth.
The contrast between the delicate character of Japanese confectionery and the light fluffiness of Taiwanese castella produces a texture combination unlike anything before it. Last year, the product attracted widespread coverage from television programs and various media outlets in addition to enthusiastic sweet lovers, with multiple sell-outs at event venues across the country.
Celebrating 5 Years in Japan with a Japan-Taiwan Friendship Theme
Grand Castella is approaching its 5th anniversary since arriving in Japan. To mark this milestone, a variety of plans and events centered on the theme of "Japan-Taiwan friendship" are set to be announced. As a symbolic gesture, the Sakura An Habutae Mochi Castella is returning in limited quantities. The Tokyo Skytree Solamachi main store will also carry a special limited-edition packaging version.
The Taiwanese castella traces its origins to the traditional Japanese castella, and its founding concept of spreading that shared culinary culture around the world continues to guide the brand today. This ongoing collaboration between Japanese and Taiwanese food cultures offers something new to savor.
Further 5th anniversary plans are expected to be announced in the coming months.
Available Locations
- Tokyo Skytree Solamachi Main Store
- Yokohama Takashimaya Store
The product may also be available at select event venues. Check the brand's official website and online stores for purchasing options.
