Summer Kyoto Wagashi Tour: 4 Traditional Sweet Shops for International Visitors to Beat the Heat Kyoto, the ancient capital beloved by international tourists, is notorious for its sweltering summer heat reaching nearly 40°C (104°F). However, even during the hottest months, you can find respite through Japan’s traditional culture at exceptional wagashi (traditional Japanese confectionery) shops […]
Nagasaki: The Cultural Crossroads That Shaped Japanese Wagashi Traditions During Japan’s isolation period, Nagasaki served as the sole gateway to the outside world. Through this port city, various cultures, knowledge, and ingredients flowed into Japan, establishing the foundation for modern Japanese culture. In the realm of traditional Japanese confectionery (wagashi), Nagasaki’s contribution is immeasurable. Sugar […]
Kanazawa: Where Traditional Wagashi Meets Modern Innovation A Cultural Haven on the Sea of Japan : Kanazawa Kanazawa, the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture, sits along the Sea of Japan in central Honshu. Located approximately 300km northwest of Tokyo and 200km northeast of Osaka, it’s accessible by bullet train in about 2.5 hours from Tokyo and […]
A Harmony of Tranquility and Sweetness: Exploring the Deep Charm of Imamiya Shrine and Aburi-mochi in Kyoto Imamiya Shrine: Kyoto’s Hidden Jewel Nestled quietly in a residential area near Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Imamiya Shrine is known as a sanctuary for longevity and protection against epidemics. The shrine was established in 994 to enshrine a deity […]
Kamigamo Shrine: One of Kyoto’s Oldest Shrines Kamigamo Shrine, officially known as Kamo-wakeikazuchi Shrine, is a prominent Kyoto shrine recognized as a World Heritage Site. Dedicated to the deity Kamo-wakeikazuchi no Oomikami, it has long been revered as a god of protection against misfortune, disaster prevention, and certain victory. Its majestic appearance and rich natural […]
Kennin-ji: Kyoto’s Oldest Zen Temple in center of Gion Kennin-ji, located in Kyoto’s Gion district, is the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. Its serene atmosphere and rich history continue to captivate many visitors. Embodying the spirit of Zen, this temple serves as an important place for understanding Japanese culture and spirituality deeply. Weaving a Thousand […]
A Sweet Journey Through Nagoya: Exploring the World of Wagashi Crafted by Samurai Dreams and Artisan Skills Nagoya is renowned for its harmonious blend of history and modernity, a characteristic that is vividly reflected in its wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) culture. The sweet world of Nagoya, shaped by the dreams of feudal-era warriors and the […]
Kyoto’s Monzen-gashi: A Thousand-Year Tale of Japanese Sweets Walk through the streets of Kyoto, and you can’t help but feel the weight of history in the air. This millennia-old city, the heart of Japanese culture, has left an indelible mark on the world of wagashi, or traditional Japanese sweets. Among these, “monzen-gashi” – confections born […]