What Is Hi-Chew? Inside Japan’s Most Popular Chewy Candy by Morinaga

Hi-Chew is one of the most iconic Japanese candies ever made. Created by the Japanese confectionery brand Morinaga in the 1970s, this chewy fruit candy has become a favorite across Japan and beyond. Known for its long-lasting flavor, smooth texture, and juicy chew, Hi-Chew offers a unique candy experience that’s both satisfying and addictive.

The Origins of Hi-Chew

Hi-Chew was first developed as a solution for people who wanted to enjoy the sensation of chewing gum but didn’t want to spit it out — which is considered impolite in Japanese culture. Morinaga created a soft candy that could be chewed like gum but swallowed like candy. The result? A game-changing product that quickly grew in popularity and launched a brand-new candy category in Japan.

Why Is Hi-Chew So Popular?

Hi-Chew stands out among Japanese candy for several reasons:

• Real fruit flavor: Every piece of Hi-Chew is infused with intense fruit taste that lingers as you chew.
• Smooth texture: Unlike other chewy candies, Hi-Chew has a soft, bouncy bite that’s never too sticky.
• Creative innovation: The brand constantly releases new and limited-edition flavors, keeping the experience exciting.
• Authentic Japanese quality: Made by Morinaga, a trusted name in Japanese confectionery since 1899.

Hi-Chew Around the World

While Hi-Chew originated in Japan, its popularity has gone global. In the U.S., it’s commonly found in Asian markets and specialty stores — but the flavor selection often differs from what you’ll find in Japan. Many unique flavors are released exclusively in Japan or as regional specialties.

If you're looking for the best place to buy Hi-Chew online, explore our full Hi-Chew Japanese candy collection. We ship directly from Japan, offering you exclusive flavors and limited-edition varieties you won’t find anywhere else. For even more treats, don’t miss our full Japanese candy collection.

Want to Explore All Flavors?

Hi-Chew comes in an incredible variety of fruit flavors — from classics like strawberry and green apple to Japan-only options like yuzu and ramune. Curious to see what’s out there? Check out our full Hi-Chew flavors list with pictures and discover which ones you want to try next!

Frequently Asked Questions About Hi-Chew

Is Hi-Chew made in Japan?

Yes! Hi-Chew was originally created in Japan by Morinaga and is still manufactured there. Some varieties are also produced in the U.S., but Japan-exclusive flavors are only available through stores that ship directly from Japan — like Konbini Stop.

Is Hi-Chew gluten-free?

Hi-Chew does not contain wheat, but Morinaga does not officially certify it as gluten-free. Always check the label or product details if you have dietary restrictions.

Does Hi-Chew contain real fruit?

Hi-Chew is made with real fruit juice and fruit puree for authentic flavor. The ingredients vary by flavor, so some may contain more fruit content than others.

Is Hi-Chew vegan or vegetarian?

Hi-Chew is not vegan, as it contains gelatin derived from animal sources. Most varieties are also not suitable for vegetarians for the same reason.

How is Hi-Chew different from other chewy candies?

Hi-Chew is known for its smooth, bouncy texture and long-lasting flavor. It’s less sticky than Western-style chewy candies and offers a more refined fruit taste. That’s why it has earned its reputation as one of the best Japanese candy products around.

Try Hi-Chew Today

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Japanese candy, Hi-Chew is a must-try. Discover the latest releases, exclusive flavors, and original Japanese packs in our Hi-Chew collection and bring a burst of fruity joy to your snack stash.