Wagashi

Wagashi are dainty sweet treats that are almost too beautiful to eat. These traditional Japanese-style sweets are often served alongside green tea, and can be found all over Japan, from cafes and restaurants to temples and gardens.

There are many types of wagashi, which feature unique shapes, flavours, consistency, and preparation techniques. Many are made using plant-based ingredients, such as rice flour, agar-agar, and azuki beans, making certain wagashi even vegan-friendly.

Presentation is just as important as taste when it comes to wagashi. Each piece is a miniature work of art, with flavours and artistic designs that draw inspiration from nature and Japan’s four distinct seasons.

We loved our wagashi treats from Kagizen Yoshifusa, one of the most renowned traditional sweet shops in Kyoto. It had a subtly sweet filling of anko, a sweet red paste made from azuki beans, and a golden leaf design as a homage to November’s Autumn.