Cherry Blossom spring Japanese sweets workshop

Celebrate the beauty of spring with our Sakura Special Nerikiri Making Workshop. In this hands-on session, you'll learn to craft delicate nerikiri sweets inspired by the iconic cherry blossoms of Japan.

Guided by Wendy, a skilled wagashi instructor, you'll discover traditional techniques to shape and decorate these exquisite confections, capturing the essence of sakura in every piece. Perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to embrace the season’s charm and take home your own handcrafted sakura-themed sweets.

Afterward, you'll experience the art of whisking your own bowl of Simply Native’s matcha to pair with the sweets you’ve created. You'll also have the opportunity to take two of your handcrafted sweets home.

Nerikiri wagashi is a traditional Japanese confectionery renowned for its intricate designs and delicate flavors. Each piece is meticulously crafted to reflect the changing seasons, festivals, and various elements of nature, showcasing the artistry and cultural heritage of Japan. Often enjoyed during tea ceremonies, these elegant sweets are appreciated for their subtle sweetness and beautiful presentation, embodying the Japanese philosophy of harmony and attention to detail.

Workshop highlights

1. Introduction to Nerikiri Wagashi

• Begin with a brief overview of nerikiri wagashi, including its history, cultural significance, and the traditional ingredients used in crafting these beautiful sweets.

• Introduction to the various tools used for nerikiri.

2. Demonstration and hands-on practice

• Watch a step-by-step demonstration by Wendy on how to shape and mold nerikiri dough into intricate designs.

• Learn techniques for texturing and detailing to bring your sweets to life.

3. Final touches and presentation

• Learn how to present your nerikiri sweets beautifully, enhancing their visual appeal.

• Gain tips on storing and serving nerikiri to maintain their freshness and delicate texture.

4. Tasting and tea pairing

• End the workshop by enjoying your handmade sweets with a bowl of matcha tea, experiencing the harmonious balance of flavors.

Whether you're a novice or have some experience in wagashi-making, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional Japanese confectionery arts and create beautiful sweets inspired by spring. All materials and tools will be provided, and you'll leave with your own handcrafted sweets, along with the skills to make more at home.

Join us and experience the art of Japanese confectionery in full bloom.

About the Instructor:

Wendy Lin is the founder of Wasei-an and a Urasenke Tea Instructor. During her intensive Chado training in Kyoto 14 years ago, she discovered a special passion for wagashi making. She received brief training from Oimatsu Sweets, an esteemed Japanese confectionery store established in 1908 in Kyoto. Wendy continues to make seasonal sweets for her tea classes weekly. With the recent increase in interest in Japanese wagashi sweets among the general public, she wishes to impart the joy and art of wagashi making to others, sharing the delight of the changing seasons through these beautiful confections.

Allergies: Wagashi contains white beans, red beans, rice, syrup and food colouring.