Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.
Experience a tea gathering while savoring wagashi you made yourself.
Kanazawa, together with Kyoto and Matsue in Shimane Prefecture, is known as one of Japan’s three major confectionery centers. The tea ceremony has flourished here since ancient times as an art practiced by samurai, leading to the development of wagashi, which are essential at tea gatherings. Even today, wagashi are an integral part of celebrations in Kanazawa, including weddings and prayers for a safe delivery, and the city has one of the highest consumption rates in Japan.
Among the many varieties of wagashi, the premium fresh confection known as nerikiri is particularly delicate and elegant. Nerikiri is made by mixing sweet bean paste with gyuhi, a soft, mochi-like dough made with ingredients such as glutinous rice flour, until it reaches a clay-like consistency. Because it is easy to shape, it can be intricately crafted into seasonal motifs inspired by flowers, birds, and nature.
The Wagashi-Making and Tea Ceremony Experience gives participants the opportunity to make nerikiri and attend a tea ceremony in an authentic tearoom while savoring their handmade confections. Participants may sit in a comfortable position during the tea ceremony, making this an approachable introduction to the world of tea even for beginners.
Tatsuo Nakamura, owner of Nakamura Namagashiten, who led the wagashi-making experience.
Chrysanthemum-shaped nerikiri. In the language of flowers, the purple chrysanthemum on the right means “wishes come true.”
Rabbit-shaped nerikiri with sesame seeds for eyes.
Trying to create elegant nerikiri like those made by professional wagashi artisans.
The hoan process of wrapping sweet bean paste in dough.
Omotesenke tea ceremony instructor Soko Kawasaki demonstrating the tea preparation procedure.
The tea ceremony experience was held at Shoko-an, the tearoom at the Former Sono Residence.
Participants also have the opportunity to prepare their own bowl of matcha.
The spirit of hospitality is reflected in each elegant, refined movement.
A tea ceremony experience in a tearoom overlooking the garden.
