Abstract

Wagashi, small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, vividly expresses the four seasons. Wagashi flourished in Kyoto during the Genroku era, alongside the tea ceremony. At that time, sweet confections made with plenty of precious white sugar were a luxury. Furthermore, their artistic designs and names served as an important communication tool, sharing a love for nature and an appreciation for literature, and adding color to each encounter with guests. This remains true even as times change. Just as punctuation marks are placed in our hectic daily lives, a cup of tea and wagashi remind us of the changing seasons.

Author’s Information

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