The Japanese sweet potato, called a satsumaimo, and the American sweet potato look and taste differently. Japanese sweet potatoes have a bright yellow colored flesh and a sweeter, nuttier flavor. Try one for yourself and see - Japanese sweet potatoes can be found at most Whole Foods, and here in Birmingham, AL, at Homewood Market. Nevertheless, universally, sweet potatoes are still sweet potatoes - they pair well with sugar and serve as a great source of nutrition.