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Why Wagashi Workshops Are Not Held Every Week
My wagashi workshops are not held every week because each one requires fresh preparation and a seasonal theme. Learn why the workshops remain small and personal, and how to arrange a private session for your group.
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What is Wagashi? An Introduction to Japanese Sweets
If you’ve ever seen small, detailed sweets served with matcha, you’ve likely come across wagashi — traditional Japanese confectionery shaped by the seasons. Wagashi is not just about taste. It is closely connected to nature, tea culture, and the idea of paying attention to detail. What does “wagashi” mean? The word wagashi (和菓子) simply means…
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Kimono de Lunch Kai in Düsseldorf
It had been cold all week, and it rained the day before our lunch. Luckily, the sun came out on the day itself, although it was still quite cold. We chose Wakaba because it’s a Japanese café and everyone is familiar with the food, which makes it easier to relax and enjoy the time together.…
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Nerikiri Recipe
This nerikiri dough is made by blending shiratamako with white bean paste, gently heating it in stages, and evaporating the moisture until the paste becomes smooth, pliable, and no longer sticky. After microwaving and kneading repeatedly, the dough cools into a workable texture that takes color beautifully — just add food coloring little by little.…
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Autumn Nerikiri Workshop — Maple, Chrysanthemum, Ghost & Pumpkin
Welcoming the Colors of Autumn There is something special about autumn in Japan. The season invites a quiet awareness of change — the turning of maple leaves, the soft fragrance of chrysanthemum, and the gentle light of shorter days.Inspired by this, our October Nerikiri Workshop in Düsseldorf embraced both the elegance of autumn and the…
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Capturing 七五三 2024 in Düsseldorf
Shichi-Go-San (七五三) is one of those milestones in Japan that feels timeless. At ages three, five, and seven, children are dressed in kimono, families visit shrines or temples, and the day becomes a cherished marker of growth and gratitude. I never imagined I would experience it here in Düsseldorf, yet once again our community came…
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How to Buy a Kimono: 9 Essential Tips for Beginners
So, you want to buy a kimono but don’t want to break the bank? Good news—buying second-hand kimono is one of the best ways to get started. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of kimono or simply want something unique for a special occasion, the second-hand market is full of hidden gems. That said, it…