Japanese Culture

Sylvia Wakana - Kashiwa Mochi

Kashiwa Mochi / 柏餅

Celebrate Children’s Day with this Kashiwa Mochi recipe: a traditional Japanese sweet rice cake with red bean filling and wrapped in an oak leaf. Making mochi may seem like a difficult task but with the right ingredients and modern techniques, it’s actually quite easy! What is Kashiwa Mochi? Kashiwa Mochi […]

Toshikoshi Soba (New Years Eve Noodles) / 年越しそば

Head into the new year with this Japanese tradition! Toshikoshi Soba, or year-crossing noodles, are enjoyed on New Years Eve to give you luck for the new year. New Years in Japan is one of the most important holidays of the year and the traditions start before the new year […]

The Guide to Japanese Table Setting

In Japan, food arrangement or place setting is almost as important as the food served. Today, I’ll share with you the most common Japanese table setting that is used both in homes and restaurants. Ichiju Sansai (一汁三菜 ) Ichiju Sansai translates to “One-Soup-Three-Dishes” and is the foundation of a Japanese […]

odawara castle

Explore Japan Virtually: Tour Odawara Castle + Fuma Ninja Experience

While Japan still remains closed to tourists, there are many ways to experience Japan’s culture and history virtually! Thanks to Kanagawa Prefecture and Kokoro Care Packages, I was able to “visit” and learn about the ancient history of Odawara City. You can now go on a virtual tour of Japan’s […]

Tsukimi Dango (Moon Viewing Mochi) / 月見団子

It’s almost Tsukimi, or the Japanese Moon Viewing Festival. This beautiful display of Tsukimi Dango, or Moon Viewing Mochi, is easy to make and best of all – it’s edible! Many people are familiar with the Chinese Mid Autumn Festival, but did you know Japan celebrates this change of seasons […]