What is WAGASHI
Welcome to Japanese confectionery Wagashi webpage! I am very pleased to have the opportunity to introduce wagashi, which is one of Japan's traditional cultural treasures, to the people in America.
I specialize in creating traditional Japanese sweets, or "wagashi," right here in the United States. Offer a range of services including custom orders (available through online shop with nationwide shipping), live demonstrations, exhibitions, and instructional classes.
History
"The roots of Wagashi can be found over two-thousand years ago, when nuts were ground into a powder and then rolled (a food that later became dango) and when mochi, said to be Japan’s oldest processed food, was made.
Over time, Wagashi changed and adapted through influences from China, the growth of the Japanese tea ceremony, and the introduction of Western sweets. In the Edo period (1603-1868), Wagashi saw a significant improvement in quality due to better access to ingredients and advancements in production techniques.
Even in today's era, Wagashi has become deeply ingrained in the daily lives of Japanese people, serving as a symbol of celebration, a gift, a daily treat, and of course, an essential element in the traditional Japanese tea ceremony."
A Taste of Nature's Beauty
"Wagashi," have evolved in tandem with the development of the Japanese tea ceremony. These delicate and intricately crafted sweets have played an integral role in enhancing the tea ceremony experience for centuries. Rooted in a deep appreciation for nature and the changing seasons, wagashi are designed not only to delight the palate but also to harmonize with the aesthetics of the tea room.
Each wagashi is a work of art, carefully made using traditional techniques and natural ingredients. These confections are often inspired by seasonal motifs, reflecting the beauty of nature's transitions throughout the year. From the vibrant hues of cherry blossoms in spring to the warm, earthy tones of autumn leaves, wagashi capture the essence of Japan's rich cultural heritage.
As the tea ceremony continues to be embraced by people around the world, wagashi have found a global audience, becoming a symbol of Japanese hospitality and craftsmanship. The artistry and attention to detail in each wagashi not only complement the flavors of the tea but also offer a visual and sensory experience that transcends cultural boundaries.
In essence, wagashi stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of the tea ceremony and its profound influence on Japanese culture. They serve as a bridge between the past and the present, inviting people from all walks of life to partake in the beauty and serenity that this ancient tradition imparts.
They are primarily made using plant-based ingredients, making them inherently vegan-friendly.
Types of Wagashi
The selection includes a wide array of wagashi, with hundreds of variations available. These can be broadly categorized into three main types:
Higashi (干菓子): These are dry, hardened sweets, often made from ingredients like rice flour, sugar, and natural flavorings. They are meticulously shaped into beautiful and intricate forms, making them a visual delight as well as a tasty treat.
Han-namagashi (半生菓子): These are semi-moist confections that strike a balance between soft and firm textures. They are carefully crafted to retain a certain degree of moisture, providing a delightful contrast to the drier higashi.
Nama-gashi (生菓子): These are fresh, soft confections made from ingredients like sweet bean paste, rice cake, and natural flavorings. They are often shaped into intricate designs that reflect the changing seasons, celebrating the beauty of nature.
From delicate mochi to intricately designed nerikiri, my offerings cover a diverse range of choices, ensuring there's something to suit every palate and occasion.
Made to order - Online Shop
I accept orders through our online shop and deliver freshly made wagashi to various locations across the United States.
The selection includes over 30 different types of wagashi at all times, ranging from various flavors of mochi to a diverse array of agar-based confections like Kohakutou Crystal Jelly Candy, Unpei and Rakugan (Higashi), as well as seasonal delicacies like Kingyoku-Kan.
Also craft original wagashi upon request. Please note that delicate and perishable items require hand delivery.
Live Demonstrations and Exhibitions
Experience the art of wagashi making through live demonstrations and exhibitions. Witness skilled artisans at work, creating these edible masterpieces right before your eyes. It's a truly immersive experience into the world of Japanese confectionery.
Instructional Classes
Take part in our instructional classes from the comfort of your own home. I'll send you all the necessary materials in advance, and together, we'll create beautiful "nerikiri" designs through online lessons. It's a hands-on experience that allows you to learn the techniques of crafting wagashi. If you wish, I will also show you how to make and drink matcha tea at the same time.
Recipe Book
I am proud to have published recipe books in Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.
Also provide wagashi recipes to several magazines and websites.
Thank you for visiting our website. We're excited to share the beauty and flavors of Japanese confectionery with you. Feel free to explore our offerings and reach out if you have any questions or special requests!
If you are interested in English wagashi making class or event, please email (info@kohakuto.com) me or follow my social media. I will post class and event information on my social media. :
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toshiko.wagashi/
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/japanesewagashi/
Contact me
E mail : info@kohakuto.com