Nerikiri Wagashi: Cosmos, Bellflower, and Ball Chrysanthemum
In this session, we will create three nerikiri designs that welcome the turn of the season: cosmos, bellflower (kikyo), and ball chrysanthemum (tamagiku). In September, the cosmos sways lightly in the breeze, the bellflower adds quiet elegance with its deep-violet, star-shaped petals, and the tamagiku begins to reveal its round, layered fullness as the early autumn season gently unfolds.
All ingredients, tools and take-home containers are provided. $90 per person.
About this Event
This workshop is taught by Yuki Sakura, wagashi artisan.
Wagashi, or Japanese confections, have a rich history dating back hundreds of years. The most exquisite wagashi are nerikiri, hand-sculpted sweets in a variety of flavors and styles, reflecting the beauty found in nature. Typically modeled on seasonal scenes, nerikiri wagashi are famous all over the world, but you don't have to be a master to make these edible works of art!
In our classes, you'll learn the traditional techniques used to create these beautiful confections, from shaping the dough to adding intricate details. Your instructor will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring that you leave with a newfound appreciation for this ancient art form.
In this session, we will create three types of Nerikiri: a cosmos, a bellflower (kikyo), and a ball chrysanthemum (tamagiku) — flowers that mark the gentle turn from summer into autumn. In September, the cosmos sways lightly in the breeze, the bellflower adds quiet elegance with its deep-violet, star-shaped petals, and the tamagiku begins to reveal its round, layered fullness as the early autumn season gently unfolds.
This workshop offers more than the joy of tasting Wagashi — it gives you the experience of creating edible art with your own hands. Simple hand movements such as pressing, pinching, and layering transform into moments of artistic expression. Through this hands-on experience, you will discover the unique beauty of Japanese food culture.
At the end of the class, you'll take home the Nerikiri you lovingly crafted yourself. I hope you'll share them with your family and friends, revisiting the stories and moments from the workshop as you admire and enjoy the sweets you created with your own hands.
What Makes Us Different?
Hands-on experience: All the ingredients and materials are prepared, and containers for taking them home are provided. You only need to walk into the classroom and leave with three beautiful wagashi.
Personal attention: We believe in providing personalized attention to each of our students, with our instructor offering individualized guidance and support.
Community atmosphere: Cooking is always more fun with friends! Our classes offer a warm and welcoming environment where you can connect with other sweet-making enthusiasts and share your love for Nerikiri.
Please note: Registration closes 48 hours before the session. Cancellations made within 72 hours of the session are nonrefundable.
About the Instructor
Yuki Sakura
Yuki Sakura originally pursued a career as a pâtissier, dedicating herself to creating Western-style desserts. However, as she reflected more deeply on her identity as a Japanese person, a new desire began to grow within her—a desire to share Japanese culture with the world through her own hands. That realization led her to the path of Wagashi (和菓子).
Today, Yuki creates Wagashi for tea ceremonies and matcha specialty shops. Each piece is crafted entirely by hand, infused with the changing seasons and the feelings of the maker. Wagashi are not simply sweets; they are expressions of nature, emotion, and tradition. They are meant to be appreciated with the eyes, felt with the heart, and remembered long after the last bite. Delivering this “multi-layered experience” is the foundation of her Wagashi-making.
Looking ahead, she hopes to share the joy and depth of Wagashi with people across countries and generations. Her goal is to bring the beauty and warmth of this traditional Japanese art form to a wider audience around the world.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 97.88
