Abstract

★The Art of Kyoto Sweets Today: Celebrating the Seasons
★The Living Tradition of Kyoto’s Confectionery

Shioyoshiken, a long-established confectionery shop in Kyoto’s Nishijin district, has been crafting traditional Kyoto sweets for generations. In this book, its proprietor, Keita Takaya, reflects on the present and future of Kyogashi (traditional Kyoto confectionery), expressing through his sweets both the traditions that must be preserved and the new challenges worth embracing.

Richly illustrated with beautiful full-color photographs, the book explores the meticulous craftsmanship behind Kyoto sweets, a tradition deeply intertwined with the tea ceremony, seasonal observances, and the distinctive culture of Kyoto.

The appendix features 96 confectionery creations prepared in accordance with Japan’s 24 seasonal divisions. An inspiring reference for tea practitioners, this book also offers valuable ideas for selecting sweets for tea gatherings.

Author’s Information

The fifth-generation owner of Shioyoshiken, a traditional Kyoto confectionery established in 1882. Born in Kyoto in 1973, he graduated from Saga Art College. After working in graphic design, he joined Shioyoshiken.