Summer is long gone, and this time of year, we’re turning on the air conditioner less and less.
I’m sure many of you feel that this is the most comfortable time of year.
But doesn’t that very comfort make you crave a little excitement?
Meiji has released a “bitter” product just for you!
In this review, we’ll take a look at “Kinoko no Yama and Takenoko no Sato: Everyone’s Black,” which goes on sale Tuesday, October 13, 2026!
Reviewing “Kinoko no Yama & Takenoko no Sato: Everyone’s Black”! The super-popular snacks get a slightly “bitter” twist
First, let’s take a look at the large bag!
With black as the main color, it really gives off a distinctly “bitter” vibe.
"BLACK" is printed in large letters at the top of the package.
With it emphasized this much, I’m really curious about what it tastes like.
The words “slightly sweet, slightly bitter” are printed there.
It gives off a slightly more mature vibe, a far cry from the image we’ve had so far.
It seems the key is the balance between bitterness and sweetness.
I’m even more curious about the taste now.
It looks like a video streaming service called “ KINOTAKE+ ” has actually launched!
Clicking the link takes you to a stylish website featuring original content starring the hugely popular actor Toma Ikuta ( @TOMA_IKUTA10 ).
Apparently, it was created as a platform that anyone can enjoy for free without needing to register.
It’s not just the snacks—KINOTAKE+ is definitely worth checking out too!
Check the nutritional information!
Now that we’ve looked at the large bag’s packaging, let’s check the nutrition facts!
First up: Kinoko no Yama!
Per bag (12g)…
- Calories: 68 kcal
- Protein: 0.9g
- Fat: 4.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 6.6 g
- Sodium: 0.04 g
Next, let’s check out “Takenoko no Sato”!
Per bag (11 g)...
- Calories: 61 kcal
- Protein: 0.9 g
- Fat: 3.7 g
- Carbohydrates: 6.0 g
- Salt Equivalent: 0.06g
Check the packet!
When you open the large bag...
There are small packets inside!
The small packets also feature a black base, giving them a bold look.
The contrast with the pale pink on either side is cute.
The back is cute, with soft, pale colors.
On the other hand, Takeno no Sato features a chic green.
The back features a pastel-like green, which seems to reflect the flavor—neither too sweet nor too bitter—through its design.
What’s inside…?
Now that we’ve looked at the individual bag packaging, let’s take a look inside!
When I take it out...
A rich, luscious chocolate aroma fills the air.
Compared to the regular Kinoko no Yama, the “Minna no Black” flavor is a bit darker in color.
A deep, bitter aroma wafts from this one as well.
When compared, the “Minna no Black” flavor is indeed a darker brown.
When you line them up like this, you can see that it’s slightly darker.
Now, let’s dig in!
Now that we’ve checked the contents, let’s dig right in!
First up, Kinoko no Yama!
...Hmm!
This is definitely bitter!
Compared to the regular flavor, the “Everyone’s Black” version has a subtler sweetness and milkiness, allowing you to enjoy the aroma and bitterness of the cocoa.
Next up, “Takenoko no Sato”!
The bitterness really stands out here, too.
If you prefer bitter chocolate over sweet chocolate, I highly recommend the “Minna no Black” flavor!
Why not try this product for yourself while enjoying the cool breeze?
Combined with the autumn atmosphere, you might really start to appreciate the charm of this bitter flavor!
" Kinoko no Yama, Takenoko no Sato: Minna no Black " is on sale nationwide starting Tuesday, October 13, 2026!
If you see it, be sure to give it a try!