Wasabi exports grow as Japan cuisine gains fans overseas

TOKYO -- Japan's exports of wasabi are rising as the growing ranks of foreign foodies embrace the unique taste and flavor of this pungent plant, a distinctive hallmark of the nation's cuisine and one that instantly clears sinuses.

With the rising popularity of Japanese cuisine overseas and more inbound tourists, wasabi -- with its sharp sting that hits the nasal passages more than the tongue and bright, herbal flavor -- is gaining new fans in the West and other parts of Asia.