Though centuries-old traditions are mostly alive and well in Japan, modern Japan has experienced a fusion of the traditional and the foreign, especially in foods. Ramen is certainly one food that springs to mind as well as tempura, which actually came to Japan via Portugal (and is an interesting story in itself). Mochicream is a fairly modern phenomenon melding the traditional Japanese pounded rice with a cream filled center reminiscent of French desserts. Flavors range from traditional like red bean paste (anko) and green tea (matcha) to decidedly western flavors like strawberry shortcake and caramel pudding.