Japanese Dried-Type Sweets (Ohigashi) Making

Ohigashi, the delicate Japanese confections, captivate with their fluffy texture and vibrant colors. Crafted from the renowned Wasanbon sugar, these treats offer a unique hands-on experience. Participants shape the sweets using intricate wooden molds, unleashing their creativity as they infuse natural hues. More than just a delicious snack, Ohigashi holds cultural significance, often gracing tea ceremonies. Uncover the artistry behind these beloved sweets and discover why they’ve become a cherished part of Japan’s culinary heritage.

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Key Points

Ohigashi are traditional Japanese dried-type sweets crafted using Wasanbon sugar, a specialty from Shizuoka prefecture renowned for its fluffy, smooth texture and unique taste.
Participants can shape Ohigashi sweets using traditional wooden molds, allowing them to capture intricate designs and connect with the confectionery’s cultural heritage.
Optional colorful variations of Ohigashi can be created using natural food colorings, enabling participants to unleash their creativity and transform the Wasanbon sugar into visually stunning confections.
The Ohigashi making activity is held from 10:00 to 17:00, with reservations after 17:00 processed the next day, and an English translation available upon request.
Children under 2 years old can attend the Ohigashi making activity for free on their parents’ laps, but non-participants are not allowed to enter the venue.

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Overview of Japanese Dried-Type Sweets (Ohigashi)

Japanese dried-type sweets, known as Ohigashi, are a distinct and delightful confection that have been crafted in Japan for centuries. Made with traditional Wasanbon sugar, these sweets boast a delicate, fluffy texture and unique flavor profile.

The Ohigashi-making process involves carefully selecting shapes from wooden molds and often incorporates vibrant colors for a visually stunning presentation. Whether enjoyed as a snack or as part of a traditional tea ceremony, Ohigashi offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich confectionery heritage, blending centuries-old techniques with a modern appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship.

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Discovering the Beauty of Wasanbon Sugar

The delicate and refined Wasanbon sugar lies at the heart of Japan’s traditional dried-type sweets, or Ohigashi. This sugar, renowned for its fluffy, smooth texture and unique taste, is the key ingredient in the Ohigashi making experience. Participants will have the opportunity to create their own Ohigashi treats using this premium sugar, shaping them into adorable designs with the help of wooden molds. The table below highlights the key features of the Wasanbon sugar and its role in this captivating cultural experience:

Feature	Description
Origin	Shizuoka prefecture, Japan
Characteristics	Fluffy, smooth texture, unique taste
Uses	Traditional Japanese sweets (Ohigashi)
Benefits	Delicate, refined flavor, artisanal appeal
Significance	Integral to the Ohigashi making experience

Shaping Sweets With Traditional Wooden Molds

As participants begin the Ohigashi making session, they’ll have the opportunity to shape their sweets using traditional wooden molds.

These molds come in a variety of cute designs, allowing everyone to get creative. Participants can choose from classic shapes like flowers, stars, or animals.

The Wasanbon sugar‘s pliable texture makes it easy to press into the molds, capturing intricate details. Once shaped, the sweets are gently removed and set aside to dry.

This hands-on experience lets people connect with Japan’s rich confectionery heritage, shaping delightful treats with their own hands.

Exploring Colorful Ohigashi Variations

For those interested in adding a touch of vibrant color to their Ohigashi creations, optional colorful variations are available for an additional 200 JPY.

Participants can choose from an array of natural food colorings to tint their delicate treats. Swirling patterns, vibrant hues, and eye-catching designs transform the simple Wasanbon sugar into visually stunning confections.

This added customization allows participants to unleash their creativity and personalize their Ohigashi. Whether opting for pastel shades or bold pops of color, the colorful Ohigashi options elevate the traditional Japanese sweets-making experience.

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Completing the Ohigashi Making Experience

Once participants have carefully molded and shaped their Ohigashi creations, they can take time to admire their handiwork.

Gathering for a group photo, they’ll capture memories of their Japanese sweets-making journey.

Next, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Participants savor the unique flavors and textures of the Wasanbon sugar-based confections they’ve just crafted.

If they opted for colorful Ohigashi, the vibrant hues add an extra touch of delight.

As the experience winds down, participants receive a completion certificate to commemorate their traditional sweet-making skills.

With new knowledge and a tasty treat, the Ohigashi experience is complete.

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Capturing the Moment: Picture Time

After carefully crafting their Ohigashi creations, participants gather for a group photo to capture the memorable moment.

The instructor guides everyone to stand together, arranging the beautifully handmade sweets in the foreground. Participants strike poses, flashing wide smiles as the camera clicks, eager to document their accomplishments.

The photo session is a highlight, allowing everyone to bask in the satisfaction of their handiwork and the camaraderie of the experience.

With these keepsake photos, participants can relive the joy of Ohigashi making long after the class has ended.

Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor

With their Ohigashi creations complete, participants eagerly gather around the table to savor the fruits of their labor.

They admire the vibrant colors and intricate designs they’ve fashioned from the traditional Wasanbon sugar. The sweet, delicate flavors melt in their mouths, transporting them to the heart of Japanese confectionery tradition.

As they sip green tea, participants share their experiences and insights, marveling at the skill and artistry required to produce these delightful treats.

The sense of accomplishment is palpable, a testament to the joys of hands-on cultural exploration.

A memorable conclusion to the Ohigashi-making journey.

Important Details and Participant Guidelines

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, there are a few important details participants should be aware of.

The activity is held between 10:00 and 17:00, and reservations after 17:00 will be processed the next day. Due to the venue’s layout, there’s no elevator access, and you will need to navigate stairs.

English translation is available upon request.

Additionally:

Children under 2 years old can attend for free, sitting on their parents’ laps.
Participants will share the experience materials and tools, with no staff assistance provided.
Non-participants aren’t allowed to enter the venue.

Things To Know

Can I Take the Finished Sweets Home?

Yes, you can take the finished sweets home. The experience includes the completed ohigashi, which you’re encouraged to enjoy during the session or bring back with you.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

No, you don’t need to bring any special equipment. All the necessary materials and tools are provided as part of the experience. Just come ready to get creative and have fun making traditional Japanese sweets.

Is There a Dress Code for the Experience?

There’s no strict dress code for this experience. Just wear comfortable, casual clothes you don’t mind getting a bit messy. Avoid wearing your Sunday best, as you’ll be working with sugar and crafting materials.

Can I Customize the Flavors of the Sweets?

Yes, participants can customize the flavors of the sweets during the experience. They’ll choose from a variety of traditional Wasanbon sugar and have the option to add colorful ingredients for an additional fee.

Is the Experience Suitable for Individuals With Dietary Restrictions?

The experience can accommodate some dietary restrictions. Participants can select from the traditional Wasanbon sugar used to make the sweets. However, the activity may not be suitable for those with severe food allergies or intolerances, as the shared materials and tools could pose a risk.

Sum Up

Crafting Japanese dried-type sweets, or Ohigashi, is a delightful experience that allows participants to enjoy the traditional art of confectionery-making. From shaping the sweets with intricate wooden molds to adding vibrant food colorings, this hands-on activity celebrates Japan’s rich cultural heritage and the exquisite flavors of Wasanbon sugar. Ohigashi-making is not only a delicious indulgence but also a cherished tradition that captivates the senses and leaves lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: