Known as a signature souvenir from Hokkaido, I’d heard the name ROYCE but didn’t expect much. Still, on a whim at the airport, I picked up a box—and what followed was a revelation. Opening it, I placed one melted piece on my tongue. Its softness, velvety melt, and rich cocoa aroma washed over me. In that moment, I realized this was not just chocolate—it was an experience.
What struck me most was the texture. As “nama chocolate” suggests, it melts at first touch, dissolving effortlessly like a refined ganache. Despite its creamy richness, it leaves no heaviness. I understood why it’s sold refrigerated—such delicacy simply couldn’t exist at room temperature.
Then came the taste: the classic au lait variety is soothingly milky yet not overly sweet, with a deep cacao flavor and a faint hint of liquor—making it a truly sophisticated treat for adults. The range extends to bitter, white, matcha, champagne, and more—each flavor uniquely refined, yet unmistakably ROYCE.
Each small square encases not just flavor, but a moment of mindful elegance. Although not individually wrapped, the included tiny fork and the cocoa-dusted coating inspire a gentle ceremony of savoring. Taking one piece from the fridge and enjoying it on a quiet afternoon is like unwrapping a small piece of joy.
The reason ROYCE enjoys such widespread popularity goes beyond just the exquisite taste and quality. Its packaging is minimalist yet exudes a refined elegance, making it a perfect gift that looks as good as it tastes. With a lineup starting at just a few hundred yen, ROYCE offers something for everyone—whether as a treat for oneself or as a thoughtful souvenir. Readily available at airport shops, major train stations, and department store fairs, ROYCE products are easy to pick up while traveling, adding to their appeal.
Another charm lies in the seasonal and region-exclusive flavors that appear throughout the year. Winter brings delights like strawberry and rum, spring features cherry blossom, summer offers refreshing citrus notes, and autumn introduces flavors like chestnut and caramel. These seasonal variations keep fans coming back, often inspiring travelers to seek out the flavor they discovered on their last visit to Japan.
More than just a sweet treat, ROYCE’s nama chocolate leaves a lasting impression as a cultural experience. Every detail—from ingredients and production methods to packaging and storage—is meticulously crafted. It offers a level of quality on par with luxury brands, yet remains accessible and inviting.
Next time you visit Japan, you’ll find yourself instinctively reaching for that familiar blue box again. And surely, you’ll want to share this velvety indulgence with family and friends. A single piece of ROYCE nama chocolate has the power to move hearts—undeniably a “true” souvenir that captures the essence of Japanese craftsmanship and hospitality.