It's Springtime in Japan #Wagashilovers!
If there is one time of year to visit Japan it's during Spring for the incredible cherry blossoms! Literally the entire country is immersed in cherry blossom viewing (hanami), setting up picnics under canopies of pink. It is a time to be outdoors, enjoying food drink and company, and the all too brief blossoms before they are carried away!
For expats like myself, who have chosen to live abroad, this time of year is probably when we miss Japan the most! It's why we I decided to do a limited run of sakura mochi (shown above), a sweet typically experienced in Spring, even though it is Autumn here in Melbourne. Sakura mochi is made with a pickled cherry blossom leaf wrapped around a centre of special mochi and red bean paste.
So I was incredibly lucky that a planned business trip to Kyoto coincided with a later than usual cherry blossom season! After almost 15 years of missing this time, I was able to experience it again, and it was amazing!
My trip was also very insightful and productive. I met so many artisans: wagashi-masters, tool makers and shop owners. We can't wait to show you what we've learned - and perhaps teach you too? (hint hint)
Check out our Instagram and Facebook pages for more insights during the trip. For now, we have a massive May of events and markets so please lock in the time to come by to get your wagashifix!
Until next time! Yours, Minnie
