It's not every snack that inspires fan sites but with a little online research, you can skim sites devoted to Pocky (reading them won't take long because they're not very in-depth); some of which have even developed tests so you can see which flavour your personality 'most resembles' (our advice: don't take them too seriously). Although other brands make these slender, crunchy pretzel sticks, Pocky is the most famous; so famous, in fact, that those made by different manufacturers are often referred to as 'Pocky-like'.
Glico first started producing Pocky in 1966, and has developed many flavours since the original chocolate, such as strawberry, coconut, chocolate-almond, Brazilian pudding, green tea, blueberry and even a line of 'men's' Pocky (we haven't figured out what makes them particularly masculine yet). Some of the flavours are limited editions, others are only available in specific countries. We put our foot down at Giant Pocky, though - at that size, they lose their charm.
Whichever brand and flavour you prefer, these sticks are strangely addictive: we can finish off a box within minutes. It's not an inexpensive snack: even less famous brands than Pocky can cost HK$16 or more for a small box containing about 45 grams. The best selection of Pocky-like snacks can be found at 7-Eleven branches and Japanese supermarkets such as Apita in Taikoo Shing and the Sogo Food Hall in Causeway Bay.